[SinglePic not found]Charlie Higson is a successful comedian, comedy actor and writer, who while occasionally providing us with funny sketches, characters and series also writes a series of novels featuring a young James Bond.

He’s also one of the team behind Down the Line, the spoof 2006 radio phone in series that is now available from the BBC Shop, and here’s a few words from the man himself…

1.    You’ve worked with Paul Whitehouse since your university days, does your shared history help when you’re creating new characters and situations?
Absolutely not, I hate the bastard.Thirty years I’ve been trying to get rid of him. If it wasn’t for him holding me back I’d be in Hollywood by now making blockbusters with fine actors like Sylvester Stallone and Brigitte Neilson.

2.    Do you prefer writing or performing?
I enjoy them both equally, but whenever I have had to choose between the two I have always chosen writing. Everything I’ve ever done has started with the written word.  I would love to go to Hollywood, though, and be in a film with someone like Sylvester Stallone, the Italian stallion.

3.    What do you find more challenging, writing comedy or writing for children?
It’s all hard in different ways. I don’t like to write comedy by myself, though, you need someone to bounce ideas off.

4.    As the ‘dad of the group’ what kind of shenanigans did you have to call the stops on when recording Down The Line?
There was a lot of heavy drug-taking going on and a couple of murders, but I don’t think it shows in the final edit.

5.    What or who would you like to see more of on the comedy circuit?
Heavy drug-taking and murder. To tell you the truth I don’t think I’ve been out to a comedy gig in over 10 years, so I have no idea what goes on on the circuit. For all I know, it’s all heavy drug taking and murder now. I didn’t come from that background. I’d love to keep in touch more with who the new up and coming comedians are, but I can’t really be bothered. If Sylvester Stallone was to do a comedy tour, though, I’d be the first to buy tickets. The man is a genius and can do anything.

6.    Finally, tell us your favourite joke:
A man walks into a bar – OUCH – it’s an iron bar. (It’s the only joke I can remember).

You can listen to a brief excerpt or even purchase Down the Line from the BBC Shop.

Christian Cawley

Christian Cawley is the editor and founder of Cult Britannia, part of the Atomic Media network of sites that also includes www.kasterborous.com, the popular Doctor Who news site.

While not watching British cult TV, Christian enjoys a good read and some classic rock music.