robertrosscomedyhistorian

The Comedy Historian Podcast: The Stories Behind British Comedy

Tv EN ↓ 17 episodes

Go beyond the jokes to discover the real stories behind comedy. Hosted by writer, presenter, and comedy historian Robert Ross, this podcast explores the lives, careers, and cultural impact of the comedians who shaped British film, television, and stage. From icons like Peter Sellers and Sid James to overlooked figures and forgotten moments, each episode reveals the creativity, controversy, and legacy behind the laughs. Insightful, engaging, and rich in storytelling, this is the podcast for anyone interested in comedy, culture, and entertainment history. New episodes exploring British comedy an...

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robertrosscomedyhistorian

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Latest episode

May 8, 2026

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Episodes

What a Carve Up! — Murder, Mayhem & Magnificent British Comedy 08.05.2026

This time on Giggle Pod, comedy historians Robert and Gemma Ross unlock the creaking doors of the classic British comedy-horror film What a Carve Up! — starring the incomparable Sidney James and Kenneth Connor. With a spooky mansion setting and a gathering of suspicious relatives for the reading of the will, with lots of razor-sharp one-liners and glorious slapstick chaos, Robert and Gemma dig int...

The Forgotten Peter Sellers Film You Need to Know – Carlton-Browne of the F.O. 01.03.2026

Peter Sellers is best remembered for his iconic roles—but some of his most interesting work is often overlooked. In this episode, we explore Carlton-Browne of the F.O. , a lesser-known film that reveals another side of Sellers’ talent. What makes this performance so unique—and why has it been forgotten? A deep dive into one of the most intriguing chapters of his career. You can follow Robert’s wor...

The Real Kenneth Williams – Genius, Insecurity, and Comedy Legacy 22.02.2026

Kenneth Williams was one of the most distinctive voices in British comedy—but behind the performances was a far more complex figure. This episode explores the contradictions at the heart of his career: brilliance and self-doubt, success and frustration. What made him so unforgettable—and what did it cost him?   You can follow Robert’s work by visiting  www.robertross.co.uk Or on Facebook Robert Ro...

Quip Wrecked - Episode 5 Roy Gould 25.10.2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Quip Wrecked that Podcast which discussed which Comedy Actor and Actress you would choose to be on desert island along with their choice of Comedy Creative, be it a director, writer or producer and their favourite TV Sitcom along with Favourite Comedy Film.   In Today’s Episode Robert is Joined by Director, Producer and writer Roy Gould   Roy is best known for bein...

Quip Wrecked - Episode 4 Andy Merriman 28.08.2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Quip Wrecked that Podcast which discussed which Comedy Actor and Actress you would choose to be on desert island along with their choice of Comedy Creative, be it a director, writer or producer and their favourite TV Sitcom along with Favourite Comedy Film. In Today’s Episode Robert is Joined by author, scriptwriter and broadcaster, Andy Merriman. ANDY is the autho...

Quip Wrecked - Episode 3 Dave Ainsworth 25.06.2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Quip Wrecked! The Podcast that discusses which Comedy Actor and Actress you would choose to be on desert island along with their choice of Comedy Creative, be it a director, writer or producer and their favourite TV Sitcom along with Favourite Comedy Film.   In Today’s Episode Robert is Joined by Stand Up Comedian Actor and Writer Dave Ainsworth   Dave wrote the aw...

Quip Wrecked - Episode 2 Jeffrey Holland 23.06.2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Quip Wrecked! The Podcast that discusses which Comedy Actor and Actress you would choose to be on desert island along with their choice of Comedy Creative, be it a director, writer or producer and their favourite TV Sitcom along with Favourite Comedy Film.   In Today’s Episode Robert is joined by one of Britain’s best love situational Comedy Actors; Jeffrey Holland...

Quip Wrecked - Episode 1 Gemma Ross 24.02.2025

Welcome to a brand new revamp of the Comedy Historian Podcast. Britain's Comedy Historian Robert Ross, along with Gemma Ross, interview a guest to discover what comedy choices they would make if they were "Quip Wrecked" on a desert island. Five different comedy choices are made from; Comedy Actor, Comedy Actress, Sitcom or Comedy Series, Comedy Creative to Comedy Film.  In this first episode Rober...

Comedy Historian Podcast 2024 18.02.2024

Welcome to our 2024 season of Podcasts.    In this episode Robert and Gemma round up what is coming up and what has been going on in the world of Comedy. There's tips on writing and a discussion on the latest Monty Python feud. 

The Untold Story of the Carry On Girls 15.11.2023

In this episode we share our recent Facebook Live chat concerning all things about our upcoming book The Carry On Girls.    The book is available to pre-order in all good bookshops.  Release Date: 23rd November 2023

Pies Across the Pond 10.07.2023

Join Britain's Comedy Historian Robert Ross as he chats to America's Comedy Historian Nick Santa Maria.    In this first episode they will be discussing Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein and Carry On Screaming. 

Abbott and Costello – The Comedy Duo That Changed Everything (with Nick Santa Maria) 25.01.2023

Abbott and Costello redefined double-act comedy—but how did they do it? With insights from Nick Santa Maria, this episode explores their influence, timing, and enduring legacy in comedy history.

Welcome to our new series 31.08.2022

Join Robert Ross, Britain's Comedy Historian as he celebrates all things comedy.  In this episode he welcomes you to the relaunch of the Podcast and shares all his latest news and whats coming up this autumn on the Comedy Historian Podcast as well as live shows. 

The Genius of Peter Sellers – And Why It Nearly Broke Him 06.04.2020

In today's episode Robert Ross, Britain's Comedy Historian, celebrates Pink Panther star and legendary Goon, Peter Sellers. 

The Tragic Genius of Marty Feldman 26.03.2020

In today's episode Robert Ross, Britain's Comedy Historian, shares his personal tribute to Marty Feldman. He discusses Marty's life, from working on Round the Horne to going transatlantic and working with Gene Wilder in Young Frankenstein.

Why Hattie Jacques Was a Comedy Legend 22.03.2020

Hattie Jacques was far more than a familiar face—she was a defining figure in British comedy. This episode explores her talent, versatility, and lasting influence, and why she remains one of the greats.  

The Strange Genius of Frankie Howerd 20.03.2020

In today's episode Robert Ross, Britain's Comedy Historian, shares his personal tribute to the king of titters, Frankie Howerd. He discusses Frankie's life, his involvement with the Carry On Films and Up Pompeii. 

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