Renowned comedian Leigh Francis, widely recognized for his alter ego Keith Lemon, has opened up about his decision to embark on his first comedy tour as himself, shedding the iconic character that brought him fame.
The former Bo’ Selecta! star attributes his choice to turning 50 and a perceived decline in the popularity of character comedy.
The Influence of Age and Changing Comedy Trends:
Leigh Francis acknowledges the impact of reaching the milestone age of 50 on his decision-making.
He expresses a desire to explore new ventures and pursue projects as himself, contemplating the finite nature of his time both in life and the entertainment industry.
Additionally, he cites a belief that character comedy is currently falling out of favor in the comedy landscape.
The comedian reflects on the cyclical nature of comedy trends, noting the current prominence of sketch shows and panel shows over character-driven comedy.
Addressing Criticism and Apologizing:
The transition to performing as himself follows criticism and accusations of racism stemming from his depiction of celebrities, including Craig David, on the Channel 4 sketch show Bo’ Selecta!.
Leigh acknowledges the impact of cancel culture and emphasizes that his intent was never to offend but rather to bring joy.
He notes the evolving comedy landscape, which has prompted a more mindful approach to humor.
Plans for the Future:
Leigh Francis reveals his aspirations beyond stand-up comedy, expressing a keen interest in hosting an art program, catering to both children and adults.
He envisions a space where he can share his passion for art and film, a departure from the limitations inherent in character-based performances.
The comedian emphasizes a desire to showcase genuine enthusiasm without the constraints of a fictional persona.
Balancing Artistic Expression and Sensitivity:
Reflecting on the evolution of Keith Lemon near the end of its run, Leigh underscores the need to be mindful in the face of changing comedic landscapes and the prevalence of cancel culture.
He reiterates that his comedic creations, including lampooning, stem from a place of childlike playfulness rather than malice.
The discussion, shared on the White Wine Question Time podcast, provides insight into the complexities of maintaining humor while navigating societal shifts.
Conclusion:
Leigh Francis’s decision to step into the spotlight as himself signals a new chapter in his comedic journey.
As he navigates the changing tides of the comedy industry and addresses past criticisms, the comedian is poised to explore diverse creative avenues beyond the confines of character-driven humor.
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