British Comedy Guide
Rodney Beckford
Rodney Beckford

Rodney Beckford

  • 53 years old
  • English
  • Writer, director, director of photography, producer, editor, comedian, camera crew, photographer, podcaster, satirist, creative director, entertainer, improviser, presenter and script editor
Comedy Casebook

Hi Rodney. Who are you and what do you do in comedy?

I'm a funny guy, I write funny stuff for myself as a stand up, but also as a podcast producer and host. There are a number of sitcoms and radio pilots commisioning editors have turned down to. I'm always looking for work and interesting creative opportunities in front or behind the camera. I'm also a decent photographer as well.

Tell us about how you first became involved in the comedy world.

I've always been interested in comedy. I tried writing drama but couldn't resist putting jokes in, so I just gave into the urge. I've been writing for a really long time but only really felt I got in to comedy when I finally got on stage as a comedian. That's where I realised I really was funny.

Tell us about your comedy favourites.

The stand out comedian for me when I was growing up was Dave Alan. I loved his irreverence, and easy story telling style which is a lot like my own when I'm on stage, although I'm a little more surreal.

The comedy industry is competitive. Why should people pick you to work with?

People already want to work with me, it's just that they want me to stack shelves at Lidl, not that theres anything wrong with stacking shelves at Lidl. But I've yet to meat a store manager that likes me cracking jokes in the loading dock or the frozen food section. The last thing they wan t to see is employees laughing out back while the checkout lines gets longer. Also I'm great to work with. If you're as funny as me I guarantee I'll spark ideas with in you, and you'll spark funny ideas with in me. I'm a fantastic collaborator, and have only been kicked off a job 15 times.

What's the best advice you've ever been given, read or heard?

Be in the room with a great comedian. They do things that are imperceptible to the camera, and control a room like the greatest conductors.

Where would you like to be in 10 years' time?

Errr... Malibu beach house, Amalfi coast sea view villa. That's both of them by the way.

If you ever get free time, how do you spend it?

I like a country side walk, am a sea swimmer and like a ride when time allows. I meant sex by the way, not motorbikes, horses or donkeys. Pretty sure those last two are illegal. I like motorbikes but have never meet one I wanted to... you know what I mean.

If you ever get free time, how do you spend it?

Well that's easy, 10 more wishes.

Published: Thursday 14th December 2023

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