In 1991, a new comedy hit British screens and, at first glance, it was just another sofa-based sitcom. Soon, it became clear Bottom was a masterpiece. Mixing cartoon-style slapstick, knob gags and Beckettian nihilism, it left an indelible mark on British comedy. Written by and starring comedy legends Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson as reprobates Richard Richard and Edward Hitler, their depraved universe unfolded over three chaotic BBC TV series, five explosive live shows and a formidable feature film.

Celebrating the legacy of TV's greatest losers Richie and Eddie, this book features thorough 'Bottom Inspections', 'Bottom Nuggets', unseen photos, draft script excerpts and interviews with cast and crew sure to reignite fans' love for Rik and Ade's unmatched talent for toilet humour.

Crafted by the creators of the popular Talking Bottom podcast Paul Tanter, Angela Pearson and Mat Brooks, this is the ultimate guide to the outrageous and unforgettable sitcom that continues to delight and disgust audiences today.



Paul Tanter is a film/TV director and film journalist; Angela Pearson is a comedy publicist, writer and journalist; and Mat Brooks is an editor, director and comedian. Together, they created the Talking Bottom podcast and wrote this book about the world's greatest sitcom. Talking Bottom regularly tops podcast charts and was named 'podcast of the week' by the Guardian and Metro. They'll likely never stop talking complete and total Bottom.