Phil Gilliver: A comedy addict's journey
Welcome to the world of Phil Gilliver Comedy. For as long as I can remember, I've been a comedy addict, especially drawn to sitcoms about lovable misfits giving life their best shot. Here, you'll discover the unique mind behind scripts that aim to entertain, challenge, and always, always make you laugh. Join me as we explore the art of comedy writing.
The unique flavour of Phil Gilliver comedy
My comedy writing style is deeply rooted in a lifelong addiction to laughter. Growing up, I adored sitcoms, especially those featuring characters who didn't quite fit in but showed immense heart. My imagination has always been captivated by the distinct, often absurd, worlds of Monty Python, Spike Milligan, The Mighty Boosh, Red Dwarf, Blackadder, The League of Gentlemen, and Inside No. 9. This diverse tapestry of influences informs my approach, creating scripts that are not just funny, but memorable and uniquely Phil Gilliver.
From stage to script: My comedy journey
My journey into comedy writing began with an early background in theatre. As a teenager, I was a member of The Clwyd Youth Theatre and a local independent theatre company. The concept of bringing characters to life by putting words into actors' mouths was truly marvellous to me. I spent some time writing books, but always found myself rushing to the dialogue, eager to discover what ridiculous thing my characters would say next. During the pandemic, I enrolled in an online sitcom writing course with Welsh comedian Bennett Aaron. I loved it so much that I had first edits for two shows written within weeks, becoming a comedy writing machine. This passion has driven me ever since.
Crafting laughter, one script at a time
The comedy I love to create is, quite simply, what makes me laugh. It's a personal barometer, but one that gets a crucial second opinion! I often bounce ideas off my wife, and if she laughs, I know I'm onto a winner. My hope is to make audiences forget their worries, even if just for a moment, and share in the joy of well-crafted humour. I aim to write scripts that resonate, surprise, and leave a lasting smile, reaching anyone who appreciates intelligent, quirky, and genuinely funny storytelling.
"It's about knowing that somewhere in the world someone has forgotten that they are miserable for a moment. That thought gives me a lot of comfort and satisfaction."
Phil Gilliver