To kick off our interview series with Byron Comedy Fest’s great lineup of artists, we thought we’d start with the king and queen of comedy: Bob Downe!
Bob Downe is the fabulously cheesy, safari suit-wearing, dazzling white-toothed, smooth-humped Ken doll, singing and dancing alter ego of TV and radio personality Mark Trevorrow. The host of the fictional daytime TV show Good Morning Murwillumbah, Bob Downe is one of the most loved and enduring comedy characters in the Australian comedy scene. Outrageous, offbeat, spontaneous and absolutely on point, Bob Downe is in a league of his own. And the good news is, he’s bringing his show to Byron Comedy Fest opening night!
Seven spoke to Bob last week in a candid Skype soirée and asked the very hard questions.
What don’t we know about Bob Downe?
That me and Ellen DeGeneres were separated at birth. Of course everyone already knows that don’t they? I had my ears fixed though.
What’s Bob’s dirty secret?
A love of Promite. On fruit toast. Weird, apparently. So sue me!
Bob’s favourite place to shop?
The Aldi candy aisle. Although it’s got nothing on Trader Joe’s in the States – they’ve got two candy aisles.
Has Bob ever been in love?
Yes. First with Davy Jones. Then Greg Brady. Then Karen Carpenter. All unrequited.
What’s Bob’s philosophy or mantra for life?
Grab the wheel and don’t let go!
How does Bob stay dancing fit?
Being paid to do it is a great incentive.
Bob is fricking ageless. Please, give us some beauty tips!
Easy. Just do a full length one-man song and dance comedy show! At least once a week, preferably more, for forty years.
What is Bob’s perfect day?
Off.
Tell us what to expect from Bob’s show at the Byron Comedy Festival?
Some balloon animal twisting, cake decorating tips, and a group home sewing lesson. Bring your own thimble and pins!
Bob Downe is at the Surf Club for The Byron Comedy Fest on Thursday 1 June.
Tix are on byroncomedyfest.com
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