Talking Bottom

The ultimate guide to the cult sitcom starring Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson: prepare to be transported into a delightfully chaotic world of booze, brawls and bottomless insights about comedy’s greatest losers

Crafted by Bottom aficionados Paul Tanter, Angela Pearson and Mat Brooks, Talking Bottom is the ultimate guide to an outrageous and unforgettable sitcom.

In 1991, a new comedy hit British screens, and, at first glance, it was just another sofa-based sitcom. Soon, it became apparent that Bottom was a masterpiece. Leaving an indelible mark on British comedy, it continues to delight and disgust new audiences today. Written by and starring comedy legends Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson as reprobates Richie and Eddie, their depraved universe unfolded over three chaotic TV series, five explosive live shows and a formidable feature film.

Combining skilful slapstick with nob gags and Beckett-style nihilist humour, Bottom proved that laughter is the best way to confront life’s grimness. Talking Bottom champions the legacy of TV’s greatest losers, investigating every pratfall and punchline along the way. Complete with thorough ‘Bottom Inspections’ and ‘Bottom Nuggets’, this book features never-before-seen photos and draft script excerpts as well as fascinating interviews with cast and crew. Delve inside Bottom with Paul, Ange and Mat as they celebrate Rik and Ade’s unmatched talent for dirty double entendres and prove why this is Britain’s best-ever sitcom.