Picture a Middlesbrough lad who swapped courtrooms for comedy gold—meet Bob Mortimer! Born in 1959, this English comedian, author, and presenter turned his knack for surreal humor into a beloved career, partnering with Vic Reeves to create anarchic TV hits and later penning bestselling books. From overcoming childhood tragedy to charming audiences with his warm wit, Mortimer’s journey is as captivating as his stories.
The Making of Bob Mortimer
Bob Mortimer grew up in Middlesbrough’s Linthorpe area, the youngest of four brothers. At seven, he faced heartbreak when his father died in a car crash, and a stray firework accidentally set his family home ablaze. Despite these setbacks, young Bob dreamed of football glory with Middlesbrough F.C., but early-onset arthritis cut those ambitions short. Undeterred, he earned three A-Levels and studied law at the University of Sussex and Leicester, later working as a solicitor in London. Dubbed “The Cockroach King” for tackling public health cases, he grew disillusioned—until a fateful 1986 visit to a Vic Reeves show at Goldsmiths Tavern sparked a comedic partnership that changed his life.
Bob Mortimer’s Unforgettable Stories
Mortimer’s work with Vic Reeves defined British comedy’s golden age, blending surrealism with slapstick. Their TV debut, Vic Reeves Big Night Out (1989), brought their chaotic pub act to screens, followed by The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer (1993) and the iconic panel show Shooting Stars (1993–2002). These shows mixed absurd sketches, catchy songs, and wild characters, earning them a spot among Britain’s 50 funniest acts. Beyond Reeves, Mortimer co-created Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing (2018–present) with Paul Whitehouse, a heartfelt series blending fishing, friendship, and life’s big questions, inspired by his 2015 triple heart bypass. As an author, his memoir And Away… (2021) became a bestseller, weaving humor with poignant reflections on loss and recovery. His debut novel, The Satsuma Complex (2022), a quirky South London mystery, won the 2023 Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize, while its sequel, The Hotel Avocado (2024), continues his whimsical storytelling.
Mortimer’s style is a delightful mix of absurd humor, relatable warmth, and offbeat charm. Whether spinning tall tales on Would I Lie to You? or crafting novels with oddball characters like Gary from The Satsuma Complex, he invites readers and viewers into a world where the mundane meets the ridiculous. His work often reflects his resilience, turning personal struggles into universal stories of laughter and connection.
Why Bob Mortimer Matters
Bob Mortimer’s impact lies in his ability to make people laugh while baring his soul. His comedy with Reeves reshaped British TV, inspiring a generation of alternative comedians. Gone Fishing revealed a softer, reflective side, resonating with audiences seeking authenticity in a chaotic world. As an author, his books offer escapism and empathy, earning critical acclaim and a loyal following. Mortimer’s journey from shy solicitor to national treasure proves that humor can heal and unite, cementing his legacy as a storyteller who finds joy in life’s absurdities.
- Born: May 23, 1959, Middlesbrough, England
- Key Works: And Away…, The Satsuma Complex, The Hotel Avocado, Gone Fishing
- Awards: Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize (2023), British Comedy Awards
Snag The Satsuma Complex or stream Gone Fishing to dive into Bob Mortimer’s hilarious, heartfelt world!