Ben Elton on Being Called the Godfather of Political Correctness and Accusations of Killing Benny Hill
Ben Elton, a prominent British comedian and writer, recently released his memoir titled *What Have I Done?* The book explores the complexities of his career and the public’s criticism of him. Elton is well-known for his contributions to sitcoms, novels, and musicals, yet he has faced significant backlash throughout his career.
The Controversial Figure in Comedy
Elton’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by both acclaim and derision. He has been labeled the “godfather of political correctness” and blamed for the decline of comedians like Benny Hill. His outspoken nature, particularly during his time on shows like *Saturday Live* and *Friday Night Live*, has drawn ire from some media circles. Notably, Elton was placed in Room 101 twice, illustrating the depth of public sentiment against him.
Defining Moments in Elton’s Career
Elton attributes much of his success to sitcom writing, with *The Young Ones*, *Blackadder*, and *The Thin Blue Line* consistently ranking among Britain’s favorite series. He recalls the creative spark that led him to establish *The Young Ones*, driven by a desire to make Rik Mayall laugh. This pioneering sitcom not only defined his career but also influenced British pop culture.
- *The Young Ones* – Introduction of new phrases into everyday vernacular.
- *Blackadder Goes Forth* – Often regarded as his masterpiece, set in the First World War.
- Feature Work – *All Is True*, directed by Kenneth Branagh, showcased Elton’s range beyond sitcom writing.
Political Themes and Evolution of Comedy
Throughout his career, Elton has not shied away from political satire, vividly expressing his views on figures like former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and more recently, Boris Johnson. He believes that modern comedy faces challenges, particularly from political censorship and the internet’s rapid dissemination of information. He argues that the perception of a threat to free speech has been manipulated by various political agendas.
A Shift in Popular Comedy
Elton expresses regret over the decline of traditional sitcoms, feeling that newer formats like *The Office* overshadow the classic live-audience styles that shaped his early career. He criticizes the snobbery surrounding different comedic forms, maintaining that classics like *Dad’s Army* hold equal merit to contemporary shows.
Elton’s Reflection on Legacy
At 66, Elton reflects on his life with a blend of pride and humility. His resurgence in popularity has sparked discussions about whether he might be considered a national treasure. Despite the skepticism, he recognizes his impact on modern English humor through his iconic works.
Elton’s memoir serves not only as a personal narrative but also as a critique of the evolving landscape of comedy and societal norms. He concludes that while he has faced accusations of stifling comedic expression, many changes he advocated are now integrated into mainstream culture.
In the face of adversity and public scrutiny, Ben Elton remains a resilient figure in comedy, committed to using humor as a medium for navigating complex societal issues.
