Adrian Edmondson on Comedy Double Acts

In a recent conversation, actor and comedian Edmondson reminisced about his early experiences at a restaurant that once belonged to Jeremy King, who faced significant challenges after being ousted from his restaurant group. Edmondson expressed sympathy for King, stating, “It was awful, what happened to Jeremy,” highlighting the emotional connection he has with the culinary world. He shared a humorous anecdote about a meal prepared by his wife, Jennifer Saunders, which featured an unexpected use of bay leaves instead of basil, illustrating the ups and downs of both cooking and relationships. Edmondson emphasized the importance of humor in partnerships, particularly in his long-standing collaboration with Saunders. He remarked, “If you can’t make each other laugh as a double act, then it’s dead from the start,” underscoring the necessity of joy in creative endeavors. His reflections also touched on his solo performances, including a one-man play at the Soho Theatre, although he remained coy about the details of that experience. Despite the success he achieved alongside his comedic partner, Rik Mayall, Edmondson acknowledged that it sometimes overshadowed his other aspirations. He noted that only recently has he begun to receive acting roles that align with his original training, yet he expressed no regrets about his journey. In a light-hearted moment, he even mentioned a whimsical desire to become a bellringer, showcasing his multifaceted interests beyond the stage.