If you’ve ever watched British comedy over the past few decades, there’s a good chance you’ve laughed along with Bob Mortimer. Known for his quirky sense of humor, surreal storytelling, and effortless charm, he’s built a career that spans television, writing, and live performance. From humble beginnings in Middlesbrough to becoming a household name, his story is one of unexpected twists, hilarious mishaps, and genuine creativity. In this article, we’ll dive deep into his life, career highlights, books, TV shows, and what makes him such a beloved figure in the UK comedy scene.
Early Life and Background
Bob Mortimer was born on May 23, 1959, in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire. Growing up as the youngest of four sons, he spent much of his childhood exploring the streets of his hometown, often turning everyday events into imaginative stories. His parents encouraged curiosity, but like many young people, he also got into mischief—a trait that seems to have fueled his comedic mind.
Before comedy entered his life, Bob trained as a solicitor. He studied law in London and even began practicing professionally. Interestingly, his legal career provided him with material for his later storytelling—especially the absurdity of office life, bureaucracy, and the small oddities of human behavior. It’s fascinating how many comedians have a background in “normal” jobs; for Bob, the transition from law to laughter was more natural than one might think.
The Meeting That Changed Everything
Comedy fans often talk about fate, and Bob’s story is a classic example. In the 1980s, he attended a comedy show where he met Vic Reeves (real name Jim Moir). This encounter changed the trajectory of his life. They discovered an instant chemistry, both in personality and performance style. Soon, they became the iconic duo Vic and Bob, known for blending surreal sketches, absurd humor, and a sense of playful chaos that British comedy rarely saw before.
Shows like Vic Reeves Big Night Out and The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer became cult classics. Their sketches didn’t follow predictable patterns; instead, they often left audiences laughing and bewildered at the same time. If you’ve ever seen Bob attempt to crack a simple joke only to spiral into a completely ridiculous tangent, you know exactly what I mean. It’s a rare talent to be so unpredictable yet endearing.
Television Career Highlights
Bob Mortimer’s television career is long and varied. Beyond the iconic duo performances, he’s starred in, hosted, and appeared on numerous TV shows that showcase his versatility:
- Shooting Stars (1993–2011): Perhaps one of the strangest and funniest panel shows in British TV history, this show mixed absurdity with competition. Bob’s chemistry with Vic and the other panelists made every episode memorable.
- Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing (2018–present): In this series, Bob teams up with Paul Whitehouse for a slower-paced, heartfelt exploration of life, friendship, and, naturally, fishing. Here, his humor shines in a gentler, reflective way, showing another side to the comedian.
- LOL: Last One Laughing UK (2025–present): Bob recently appeared on this newer comedy challenge show, proving that even after decades, he can still compete in the unpredictable world of unscripted humor.
- Taskmaster (Since 2015): Though not a regular host, Bob has appeared as a guest, bringing his signature absurdist take to the challenges, much to viewers’ delight.
Bob’s ability to switch between chaotic comedy, gentle humor, and heartfelt storytelling is rare. Watching him on screen feels like spending time with a friend who’s constantly surprising you.
Writing and Books
Many know Bob from TV, but he’s also an accomplished author. His books often reflect the same whimsical style he brings to television, mixing memoir with surreal anecdotes:
- The Long Shoe (2025): A reflective and funny take on his life, featuring stories from his childhood to his comedy career.
- The Satsuma Complex (2022): A bizarrely funny collection of short stories that display his talent for absurd humor.
- The Hotel Avocado (2024): Another semi-autobiographical journey, blending personal experiences with exaggerated comedic moments.
What’s striking is how approachable his writing feels. You’re not reading something polished and distant; it feels like Bob is talking to you directly, sharing small joys, odd mishaps, and reflections on everyday life.
Personal Life
Outside of the limelight, Bob Mortimer is a private but warm individual. He married Lisa Matthews in 2015 and has two children. Friends and fans often comment on his generosity, quirky sense of fun, and ability to make anyone laugh without even trying. He has also been open about health challenges over the years, including heart problems, which makes his continued energy and creativity all the more inspiring.
Fans often describe him as “the funny uncle you wish you had,” and this is no exaggeration. Whether telling a story about fishing mishaps or describing a bizarre interaction on a TV show, there’s an authenticity to his humor that resonates deeply.
The Comedic Style of Bob Mortimer
Bob’s comedy is uniquely his own. It blends:
- Absurdity: Expect the unexpected. A simple situation can turn into something hilariously surreal.
- Storytelling: He has an incredible knack for drawing listeners into a tale, often leaving them laughing at an outcome no one predicted.
- Gentleness: Even in chaos, his humor feels warm and never cruel.
For example, in Gone Fishing, a segment about trying to catch a small fish can evolve into a philosophical reflection on patience, life, and friendship. It’s this combination of absurdity and heart that sets him apart from many comedians.
Influence and Legacy
Bob Mortimer has influenced an entire generation of British comedians. Shows like Shooting Stars and his collaborations with Vic Reeves inspired surreal humor in the UK comedy scene. Comedians often cite his fearless approach to storytelling, willingness to embrace absurdity, and natural charm as reasons they look up to him.
Beyond comedy, his books and TV appearances show that humor can coexist with reflection and sincerity. He demonstrates that being funny doesn’t mean being shallow; there’s a depth that makes laughter even more meaningful.
Real-Life Anecdotes
One story fans love involves Bob attempting to perform a seemingly simple stunt on live TV. Instead of succeeding, the situation spiraled hilariously out of control, leaving both cast and audience in stitches. These moments, though minor, encapsulate his approach to comedy: embrace mistakes, enjoy the chaos, and always tell a story.
Another example is his off-screen camaraderie with Paul Whitehouse during fishing trips. Watching them navigate small disagreements, tease each other, and share personal reflections feels intimate. These experiences make his humor relatable, human, and enduring.
FAQs
1. What is Bob Mortimer’s real name?
His full name is Robert Renwick Mortimer, born in Middlesbrough in 1959.
2. Has Bob Mortimer written any books?
Yes, he has authored multiple books, including The Long Shoe and The Hotel Avocado.
3. Is Bob Mortimer married?
He is married to Lisa Matthews since 2015 and has two children.
4. What are his most famous TV shows?
Notable shows include Shooting Stars, Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, and Vic Reeves Big Night Out.
5. What makes his comedy unique?
His style blends absurdity, storytelling, warmth, and unpredictability, creating humor that is both hilarious and heartfelt.
Conclusion
Bob Mortimer’s journey from a young solicitor in Middlesbrough to one of the UK’s most cherished comedians is both inspiring and entertaining. His career spans television, books, and live comedy, each project reflecting his unique blend of absurdity, warmth, and insight. For anyone curious about British comedy or just looking for a good laugh paired with genuine storytelling, exploring Bob Mortimer’s work is a rewarding experience. His humor reminds us that life is better when we embrace the unexpected and laugh along the way.
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