Beloved comedian's potential Taskmaster comeback

Virgin Radio

4 Jan 2024, 13:58

Jasper Carrott, has been plucked by Alex Horne as a potential contestant TV on Taskmaster's radar, priming the 'old school' performer for a new aged comeback.

Legendary comedian Jasper Carrott, known for his iconic contributions to British comedy, could be making a long-awaited return to major television as Taskmaster eyes him for a coveted spot on the popular Channel 4 series. If successful, this would mark Carrott's first significant TV show appearance in over a decade.

Jasper Carrott, whose real name is Robert Davis, has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, earning widespread acclaim for his comedic prowess.

While he hasn't been a regular presence on television since the conclusion of the sitcom All About Me in 2004, Taskmaster's (Little) Alex Horne is eager to bring him back into the limelight.

Alex Horne, the creator and executive producer of Taskmaster, revealed Carrott's inclusion at the top of his wishlist for potential contestants during an interview on the Always Be Comedy podcast.

Horne expressed his desire for 'old-school people' like Jasper Carrott, indicating a preference for legendary comedians with a rich history in the industry. Horne also mentioned Joe Pasquale as another potential candidate, acknowledging the challenges of selecting contestants for the ten-week show.

In his own words on the Always Be Comedy podcast, Horne said: "There are a few old-school people who I’d love to have, like [Jasper] Carrott."

Then on the subject of Pasquale, he added: "He’s not chasing things [career-wise], but I think [Joe] Pasquale would do it and I think he would be great.

"But it’s a big conversation because if you’re having Pasquale, you’re not having someone else and it’s ten weeks."

While Jasper Carrott may not have been a regular on TV screens in recent years, he remains active in the world of comedy, continuing to perform stand-up shows across the UK.

In 2022, he embarked on the Stand Up & Rock tour, collaborating with The Bev Bevan Band and delighting audiences in various locations.

Jasper Carrott's television legacy includes hosting the daytime game show Golden Balls from 2007 to 2009 and the sketch show Canned Carrott from 1990 to 1995.

His versatility extends to portraying fictional characters, such as Bob Louis in the TV series The Detectives, and contributing to the long-running radio drama The Archers.

Taskmaster, launched in 2015, has become a staple of British television, featuring celebrities undertaking eccentric challenges overseen by Alex Horne, with Greg Davies assigning scores based on their performances.

The inclusion of Jasper Carrott in the lineup would undoubtedly add a nostalgic and entertaining element to the show, creating anticipation among fans eager to witness the return of the beloved comedian to the television spotlight.

Taskmaster is available to stream on Channel 4.