Now most people do not want an ordinary life in which they do a job well, earn the respect of their collaborators and competitors, bring up a family and have friends. That's not enough any more, and I think that is absolutely tragic - and I'm not exaggerating - that people feel like a decent, ordinary, fun life is no longer enough.

And now for something completely different...

I want to write a book which is the history of comedy.

I think we're all born with a sense of humor. Creativity is another thing though.

The writing is the most important bit, and performing it is just closing the circle because I'm less likely to screw it up than anyone else.

England is a fairly envious little country and it's embodied in the press. They don't like anyone being more distinguished than they are.

Students who laugh more- learn more. Students who laugh more earn more.