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Berserker!
From brutal schooldays to '80s anarchy, through The Young Ones and beyond, Berserker! is the one-of-a-kind, fascinating memoir from an icon of British comedy, Adrian Edmondson.
Berserk : out of control with anger or excitement; wild or frenzied.
Berserkers : an elite Norse fighting corp who, apparently off their tits on hallucinogenic drugs, fought with a particular fury and senseless abandon still present in many Scandinavian heavy metal groups.
Ade Edmondson smashed onto the comedy circuit in the 1980s, stormed The Comedy Store and, alongside Rik Mayall, brought anarchy to stage and screen. How did a child brought up in a strict Methodist household—and who spent his formative years incarcerated in repressive boarding schools—end up joining the revolution? Well, he is part Norse. Could it be his berserker heritage?
With wisdom, nostalgia and uniquely observed humour, Ade traces his journey through life and starting out on the alternative scene, getting arrested in Soho, creating his outrageously violent characters and learning more about his curious (possibly Scandinavian) heritage. With star-studded anecdotes and set to a soundtrack of pop hits which transport the reader through time, it’s a memoir like no other.
Berserk : out of control with anger or excitement; wild or frenzied.
Berserkers : an elite Norse fighting corp who, apparently off their tits on hallucinogenic drugs, fought with a particular fury and senseless abandon still present in many Scandinavian heavy metal groups.
Ade Edmondson smashed onto the comedy circuit in the 1980s, stormed The Comedy Store and, alongside Rik Mayall, brought anarchy to stage and screen. How did a child brought up in a strict Methodist household—and who spent his formative years incarcerated in repressive boarding schools—end up joining the revolution? Well, he is part Norse. Could it be his berserker heritage?
With wisdom, nostalgia and uniquely observed humour, Ade traces his journey through life and starting out on the alternative scene, getting arrested in Soho, creating his outrageously violent characters and learning more about his curious (possibly Scandinavian) heritage. With star-studded anecdotes and set to a soundtrack of pop hits which transport the reader through time, it’s a memoir like no other.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2023
About the author
Adrian Edmondson
27 books71 followersAdrian Charles "Ade" Edmondson is an English comedian, writer, director, actor, and musician. He is probably best known for his comedic roles in the television series The Young Ones (1982–1984) and Bottom (1991–2003), which he also wrote together with his long-time comedy partner Rik Mayall.
Edmondson attended Pocklington School in Yorkshire from 1968 to 1975 and later went to the University of Manchester to study drama, receiving a 2:1 degree, where he met his future comedy partner Rik Mayall. Edmondson and Mayall soon became best friends and before long found work on the burgeoning alternative comedy scene.
Under the name 20th Century Coyote, Edmondson and Mayall became one of the star attractions at The Comedy Store. As their popularity grew, Edmondson and Mayall and other upcoming comedians (including Alexei Sayle, Peter Richardson, Nigel Planer, French and Saunders) split away from the Comedy Store to set up their own venue: The Comic Strip club. The Comic Strip soon gained a reputation as one of the most popular comedy clubs in London and soon came to the attention of Channel 4. Edmondson and the others were commissioned to act in six self-contained half-hour films, using the group as comedy actors rather than stand-up performers. The series, entitled The Comic Strip Presents... debuted on 2 November 1982 (the opening night of Channel 4).
On 11 May 1985, Edmondson married his Comic Strip fellow Jennifer Saunders. Edmondson's university nickname of "Eddie Monsoon," a play on his surname, inspired the name of Saunders' character, Edina Monsoon on Absolutely Fabulous
In 1986 he co-wrote the book How to be a Complete Bastard together with Mark Leigh and Mike Lepine. In 1987, he reunited with Planer and Mayall to star in Filthy Rich and Catflap. The series was penned by The Young Ones' co-writer Ben Elton and saw Edmondson display the same slapstick characteristics as Vyvyan, but was closer in personality to his later character "Eddie Hitler" in Bottom. The show received critical acclaim but poor viewing figures and was cancelled after one series. In 1988, he released a follow up to How To Be A Complete Bastard called The Bastard's Book of the Worst. In 1989 Edmondson made an appearance in an episode of Blackadder Goes Forth as The Red Baron, arch-nemesis to Mayall's character, Lord Flashheart.
In 1991, Edmondson was teamed up with his comedy partner Rik Mayall once more, this time co-writing and co-starring in their own sitcom, Bottom. Edmondson starred as "Edward Elizabeth Hitler" opposite Mayall's "Richard Richard." The series featured the slapstick and crude humour for which the pair had become famous, but also more in-depth character analysis. Mayall and Edmonson have said Bottom was aimed to be more than just a series of toilet gags, but a cruder cousin to plays like Waiting for Godot about the pointlessness of life. Edmondson played Estragon to Mayall's Vladimir in Samuel Beckett's play in the West End, in a production that opened at the Queen's Theatre on 30 September 1991. Bottom became very popular, but it was criticised for its often vulgar humour. Edmondson was also censured for essentially reprising the same character he had been playing for his entire career. It was also incarnated into five UK stage tours (1993, 1995, 1997, 2001 and 2003). The violent natures of these shows saw both Edmondson and Mayall ending up in hospital.
Edmondson attended Pocklington School in Yorkshire from 1968 to 1975 and later went to the University of Manchester to study drama, receiving a 2:1 degree, where he met his future comedy partner Rik Mayall. Edmondson and Mayall soon became best friends and before long found work on the burgeoning alternative comedy scene.
Under the name 20th Century Coyote, Edmondson and Mayall became one of the star attractions at The Comedy Store. As their popularity grew, Edmondson and Mayall and other upcoming comedians (including Alexei Sayle, Peter Richardson, Nigel Planer, French and Saunders) split away from the Comedy Store to set up their own venue: The Comic Strip club. The Comic Strip soon gained a reputation as one of the most popular comedy clubs in London and soon came to the attention of Channel 4. Edmondson and the others were commissioned to act in six self-contained half-hour films, using the group as comedy actors rather than stand-up performers. The series, entitled The Comic Strip Presents... debuted on 2 November 1982 (the opening night of Channel 4).
On 11 May 1985, Edmondson married his Comic Strip fellow Jennifer Saunders. Edmondson's university nickname of "Eddie Monsoon," a play on his surname, inspired the name of Saunders' character, Edina Monsoon on Absolutely Fabulous
In 1986 he co-wrote the book How to be a Complete Bastard together with Mark Leigh and Mike Lepine. In 1987, he reunited with Planer and Mayall to star in Filthy Rich and Catflap. The series was penned by The Young Ones' co-writer Ben Elton and saw Edmondson display the same slapstick characteristics as Vyvyan, but was closer in personality to his later character "Eddie Hitler" in Bottom. The show received critical acclaim but poor viewing figures and was cancelled after one series. In 1988, he released a follow up to How To Be A Complete Bastard called The Bastard's Book of the Worst. In 1989 Edmondson made an appearance in an episode of Blackadder Goes Forth as The Red Baron, arch-nemesis to Mayall's character, Lord Flashheart.
In 1991, Edmondson was teamed up with his comedy partner Rik Mayall once more, this time co-writing and co-starring in their own sitcom, Bottom. Edmondson starred as "Edward Elizabeth Hitler" opposite Mayall's "Richard Richard." The series featured the slapstick and crude humour for which the pair had become famous, but also more in-depth character analysis. Mayall and Edmonson have said Bottom was aimed to be more than just a series of toilet gags, but a cruder cousin to plays like Waiting for Godot about the pointlessness of life. Edmondson played Estragon to Mayall's Vladimir in Samuel Beckett's play in the West End, in a production that opened at the Queen's Theatre on 30 September 1991. Bottom became very popular, but it was criticised for its often vulgar humour. Edmondson was also censured for essentially reprising the same character he had been playing for his entire career. It was also incarnated into five UK stage tours (1993, 1995, 1997, 2001 and 2003). The violent natures of these shows saw both Edmondson and Mayall ending up in hospital.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
October 2, 2023
A review from the husband
A fascinating behind the scenes of Adrian Edmonson’s life. From his school days through to the Comedy Store, Ade gives us a vivid account of life interspersed with his musical memories.
He hits the public psyche when The Comic Strop Presents starts on Channel 4 in the UK and then very shortly after The Young One’s is on BBC2. It is that show that my mother hated, that had such an affect on many growing up in the 1980’s. Ade and Rik Mayall became a comedy duo, writing and staring in Bottom - another favourite of mine, and not my mother, but this book is far more than those 2 shows. It is a glimpse beyond the stardom of a comedy legend.
Adrian writes well, it is funny, poignant and captures the essence of the Berserker. He has conversations with the reader, almost like he is having a chat down the pub with a pint.
Really enjoyable, 5 stars, you utter utter bastard 😆
Thanks so much to Macmillan Australia for sending an early copy of this book to read. Published on September 28th.
A fascinating behind the scenes of Adrian Edmonson’s life. From his school days through to the Comedy Store, Ade gives us a vivid account of life interspersed with his musical memories.
He hits the public psyche when The Comic Strop Presents starts on Channel 4 in the UK and then very shortly after The Young One’s is on BBC2. It is that show that my mother hated, that had such an affect on many growing up in the 1980’s. Ade and Rik Mayall became a comedy duo, writing and staring in Bottom - another favourite of mine, and not my mother, but this book is far more than those 2 shows. It is a glimpse beyond the stardom of a comedy legend.
Adrian writes well, it is funny, poignant and captures the essence of the Berserker. He has conversations with the reader, almost like he is having a chat down the pub with a pint.
Really enjoyable, 5 stars, you utter utter bastard 😆
Thanks so much to Macmillan Australia for sending an early copy of this book to read. Published on September 28th.
October 7, 2023
Adrian Edmondson has been a huge part of my life from a very young age, Bottom was, and still is, one of the funniest things I've ever watched and whether he's the front man of fictional band Bad News or causing chaos as Vyvyan in The Young Ones he's never failed to delight and entertain me. The announcement of his autobiography was met with an, "OOOHHH" that new and very exciting releases bring out of me and I rushed to Waterstones on the day of release (actually a day early for some reason - no complaints here) to grab a copy.
Unlike other autobiographies I've read by comedians, although now I type this it usually applies exclusively to stand up comedians, this book isn't littered with jokes or funny anecdotes. Edmondson describes himself as an accidental comedian and I'd agree with him on that one. First and foremost he's an actor and he just happens to act in comedic roles. Here then we are given a deep dive into not only his career but also his life. It's a very emotional and poignant book with quite a large portion of its page count devoted to his relationship with his family, in particular his dad, and time as a young student, of which some recollections will shock and appal.
Of course there's also tales of his highly successful career, his iconic roles and being part of one of the greatest double acts of all time with Rik Mayall. Their time together is the stuff of legend and I was fascinated as I learned how shows were devised and the behind the scenes stories. I'm not going into details because they should be experienced first hand when reading the book.
While this certainly has humourous moments it's not a book that will have your sides aching with laughter. Ade reflects a lot on his relationship with his family, his mental health and his struggles in social situations. A lot of the times he plays very outlandish and confident characters but in real life he's a very complex individual with a lot of baggage to unpack.
So basically, if you go into this one with expectations of zany and wacky antics you may be disappointed. But, if like me you want to know about one of Britain's most talented actors then there's plenty to enjoy, even if some of it is quite heavy and at times tough to read. In particular I found the end of his working relationship with Rik very sad given what would follow quite soon afterwards.
In a way this book feels cathartic for Ade. His exploration of his darkest thoughts and the need to be loved are tackled in great detail. Having watched an interview to promote the book it felt like he was laughing at some of the things he brings up as a defence mechanism where as when he puts it to page he lets his guard down and shows a much more vulnerable side than we've ever seen before.
I didn't want to put the book down. As with all autobiographies there are a couple of photo sections, which don't increase the page count strangely, and as I read further into the book I was given more details about them which had me flicking back and giving a better appreciation of them. I was reminded of the vastness of his talents and even learned about aspects of his time in showbiz (directing music videos.. WHAT??) Incredible, truly incredible.
Unlike other autobiographies I've read by comedians, although now I type this it usually applies exclusively to stand up comedians, this book isn't littered with jokes or funny anecdotes. Edmondson describes himself as an accidental comedian and I'd agree with him on that one. First and foremost he's an actor and he just happens to act in comedic roles. Here then we are given a deep dive into not only his career but also his life. It's a very emotional and poignant book with quite a large portion of its page count devoted to his relationship with his family, in particular his dad, and time as a young student, of which some recollections will shock and appal.
Of course there's also tales of his highly successful career, his iconic roles and being part of one of the greatest double acts of all time with Rik Mayall. Their time together is the stuff of legend and I was fascinated as I learned how shows were devised and the behind the scenes stories. I'm not going into details because they should be experienced first hand when reading the book.
While this certainly has humourous moments it's not a book that will have your sides aching with laughter. Ade reflects a lot on his relationship with his family, his mental health and his struggles in social situations. A lot of the times he plays very outlandish and confident characters but in real life he's a very complex individual with a lot of baggage to unpack.
So basically, if you go into this one with expectations of zany and wacky antics you may be disappointed. But, if like me you want to know about one of Britain's most talented actors then there's plenty to enjoy, even if some of it is quite heavy and at times tough to read. In particular I found the end of his working relationship with Rik very sad given what would follow quite soon afterwards.
In a way this book feels cathartic for Ade. His exploration of his darkest thoughts and the need to be loved are tackled in great detail. Having watched an interview to promote the book it felt like he was laughing at some of the things he brings up as a defence mechanism where as when he puts it to page he lets his guard down and shows a much more vulnerable side than we've ever seen before.
I didn't want to put the book down. As with all autobiographies there are a couple of photo sections, which don't increase the page count strangely, and as I read further into the book I was given more details about them which had me flicking back and giving a better appreciation of them. I was reminded of the vastness of his talents and even learned about aspects of his time in showbiz (directing music videos.. WHAT??) Incredible, truly incredible.
December 21, 2023
When I reviewed Alexei Sayle’s memoir I started off by noting how little he looked like a comedian. This won’t work for Adrian (‘Ade’) Edmundson. He looked exactly like one.
Ade’s best-known characters - Vyvan Basterd, Eddie Hitler - were cartoons brought to life and unleashed on the public. It seems amazing their feet never left fire trails as they sprinted away from mayhem. They weren’t just fired from cannons. They were set ablaze, had their legs sawn off, their hands pushed into blenders, or fell off tall buildings tapping every window and saying ‘Hello cutie’ to every Secretary upon their descent of flight.
We get a clear sense of what fuelled those creations. Since early childhood, Ade has cherished the notion he is descended from Viking stock. In view of the surname, blonde hair and blue eyes, this doesn’t sound delusional. The emotional truth, however, is more important to him than biology. When seeing a chess piece of a Viking Berserker, bug-eyed, strung out on henbane and chewing its shield, he feels a jolt of recognition. For what drove the Berserker also drove his characters. The question, put to himself, is where did this seemingly inherent anger, frenzy and defiance come from?
The answer, of course, was ‘early childhood and schooling.’ Ade’s family came from resolutely dour Methodist stock, Bradford division. Mum was a slumbering bonfire of repressed rage, Dad a teacher with the unfortunate knack of choosing posts in countries on the verge of civil war. After moving the family to Uganda, Dad hit upon a change of plan and shipped Ade off to boarding school in Pocklington, East Yorkshire, where the boy was caned no fewer than 66 times. This part of the book - clinically and sparingly described - isn’t the first tale about the horrors of English private schooling and doubtless won’t be the last. Needless to say it remains disturbing how many parents thought abandoning their children to the care of snobs, sadists, and perverts was a good idea. It’s perhaps unsurprising that Ade recalls being mesmerised by Malcom McDowell’s character in the film if….and the fact it ends in a gunfight between students and teachers. (‘There but for the keys to the armoury go I…’)
University gave him his first taste of freedom. Ade thinks it is no coincidence this was also when the met the man whose name would become indissolubly bound to his - Rik Mayall. Given all that’s been written about their double act, Ade’s first-hand freshness has distinction and mostly resists the urge to settle scores. ‘You get what you see - a fun-loving charmer, someone who’s easy to be around, someone who wants to laugh and to make other people laugh, a bit of a show-off but someone who just wants the night to go well.’ He recalls a young girl smitten with Rik at one of their early comedy gigs, who then went on stage as the following act, performing ‘My Heart Belongs to Daddy’ almost directly to him. Ade didn’t see Rik again until it was time to do their sketch the following day. Rik seemed quite tired.
At the turn of the 1980s British actors couldn’t find reputable acting work without first joining Equity, the actors’ union, but couldn’t join Equity without first amassing sufficient acting credits. A loophole was found for ‘variety’ acts and duly exploited when the Comedy Store (‘a tiny fire hazard of a room’) first opened its doors on Meard Street, Soho. It was a comic bear pit. If the audience didn’t like the acts, they shouted ‘gong’, the compere banged the gong, and the act shuffled off stage in disgrace. Acts either died or thrived. Rik and Ade’s act thrived because they learned to trust that one partner would never let the other fail, that their job was to lovingly wring the best material from the other. Ade’s account of the happiness of getting in the zone with someone so perfectly attuned to your wavelength that he finishes your sentences is one of the book’s biggest pleasures. It is also the glowing essence of friendship set down in words.
It wasn’t long before the duo and their peers were in demand from TV producers keen to sign the next big thing. So eager, Ade notes, they ended up in competition with themselves - The Young Ones aired on the BBC, and The Comic Strip Presents aired on Channel 4. Posterity has awarded its laurels to the former. Ade reckons he has now spent far more time talking about The Young Ones than he did making it. The irritation is genuine - too many fans in the street shouting lines at him that he’s long since forgotten - but the disdain for the show seems too forced to be entirely true. Someone who genuinely hadn’t seen a show since its first transmission wouldn’t savour the details behind it with such obvious relish, nor prepare an incisive analysis of what it did best and why.
Bottom was the final stage in the evolution of their act and netted the duo their biggest rewards - three TV series, a film, a string of successful live tours, substantial video sales. Sterner critics dismissed the show as puerile; worse, they continually overlooked its roots in Samuel Beckett, particularly Waiting for Godot. Ade’s working knowledge of Beckett’s play is absorbing as well as valuable. He reminds us it’s meant to be funny, not performed as if being read from a lectern. Snobbery is not one of his vices: among Ade’s enthusiasms are Road Runner cartoons (‘better than Shakespeare’) as well as Tolstoy.
No account of a comic actor’s life would be complete without the obligatory spells of depression, self-doubt, even periods of suicidal thoughts. These are presented matter-of-factly, without self-pity, and to a suitable length. I think most will read the dissolution of his friendship with Rik in the same vein, which is delivered with sadness rather than rancour.
A puzzle is the omission of Ade’s routine about the pleasures of gardening, which is a mainstay of the live tour in support of this book. In it he describes how during the first lockdown, for the first time in decades, he stopped hearing the buzz of berserker’s adrenalin in his ears as he finally took the time, in the poet’s words, to stand and stare. He realised his acting career might never resume and, rather than gloom, felt an overwhelming sensation of peace and almost zen-like acceptance. He then sat in the tall grass of his large garden and watched the birds until evening fell. It would have further deepened the point made in the final chapter of this funny, wise book, which I want to quote in conclusion:
‘The Japanese have a tradition called kintsugi in which they mend broken pots with a gold-coloured pigment so you can see where the damage was. They’re proud of the repair. Part of the process of coming to terms with the damage is to show it off, and not be ashamed. The berserker in me feels like one of those pots - you can see my cracks, but I’ve been repaired, and I’m more or less fully functional.’
Long may he function.
Ade’s best-known characters - Vyvan Basterd, Eddie Hitler - were cartoons brought to life and unleashed on the public. It seems amazing their feet never left fire trails as they sprinted away from mayhem. They weren’t just fired from cannons. They were set ablaze, had their legs sawn off, their hands pushed into blenders, or fell off tall buildings tapping every window and saying ‘Hello cutie’ to every Secretary upon their descent of flight.
We get a clear sense of what fuelled those creations. Since early childhood, Ade has cherished the notion he is descended from Viking stock. In view of the surname, blonde hair and blue eyes, this doesn’t sound delusional. The emotional truth, however, is more important to him than biology. When seeing a chess piece of a Viking Berserker, bug-eyed, strung out on henbane and chewing its shield, he feels a jolt of recognition. For what drove the Berserker also drove his characters. The question, put to himself, is where did this seemingly inherent anger, frenzy and defiance come from?
The answer, of course, was ‘early childhood and schooling.’ Ade’s family came from resolutely dour Methodist stock, Bradford division. Mum was a slumbering bonfire of repressed rage, Dad a teacher with the unfortunate knack of choosing posts in countries on the verge of civil war. After moving the family to Uganda, Dad hit upon a change of plan and shipped Ade off to boarding school in Pocklington, East Yorkshire, where the boy was caned no fewer than 66 times. This part of the book - clinically and sparingly described - isn’t the first tale about the horrors of English private schooling and doubtless won’t be the last. Needless to say it remains disturbing how many parents thought abandoning their children to the care of snobs, sadists, and perverts was a good idea. It’s perhaps unsurprising that Ade recalls being mesmerised by Malcom McDowell’s character in the film if….and the fact it ends in a gunfight between students and teachers. (‘There but for the keys to the armoury go I…’)
University gave him his first taste of freedom. Ade thinks it is no coincidence this was also when the met the man whose name would become indissolubly bound to his - Rik Mayall. Given all that’s been written about their double act, Ade’s first-hand freshness has distinction and mostly resists the urge to settle scores. ‘You get what you see - a fun-loving charmer, someone who’s easy to be around, someone who wants to laugh and to make other people laugh, a bit of a show-off but someone who just wants the night to go well.’ He recalls a young girl smitten with Rik at one of their early comedy gigs, who then went on stage as the following act, performing ‘My Heart Belongs to Daddy’ almost directly to him. Ade didn’t see Rik again until it was time to do their sketch the following day. Rik seemed quite tired.
At the turn of the 1980s British actors couldn’t find reputable acting work without first joining Equity, the actors’ union, but couldn’t join Equity without first amassing sufficient acting credits. A loophole was found for ‘variety’ acts and duly exploited when the Comedy Store (‘a tiny fire hazard of a room’) first opened its doors on Meard Street, Soho. It was a comic bear pit. If the audience didn’t like the acts, they shouted ‘gong’, the compere banged the gong, and the act shuffled off stage in disgrace. Acts either died or thrived. Rik and Ade’s act thrived because they learned to trust that one partner would never let the other fail, that their job was to lovingly wring the best material from the other. Ade’s account of the happiness of getting in the zone with someone so perfectly attuned to your wavelength that he finishes your sentences is one of the book’s biggest pleasures. It is also the glowing essence of friendship set down in words.
It wasn’t long before the duo and their peers were in demand from TV producers keen to sign the next big thing. So eager, Ade notes, they ended up in competition with themselves - The Young Ones aired on the BBC, and The Comic Strip Presents aired on Channel 4. Posterity has awarded its laurels to the former. Ade reckons he has now spent far more time talking about The Young Ones than he did making it. The irritation is genuine - too many fans in the street shouting lines at him that he’s long since forgotten - but the disdain for the show seems too forced to be entirely true. Someone who genuinely hadn’t seen a show since its first transmission wouldn’t savour the details behind it with such obvious relish, nor prepare an incisive analysis of what it did best and why.
Bottom was the final stage in the evolution of their act and netted the duo their biggest rewards - three TV series, a film, a string of successful live tours, substantial video sales. Sterner critics dismissed the show as puerile; worse, they continually overlooked its roots in Samuel Beckett, particularly Waiting for Godot. Ade’s working knowledge of Beckett’s play is absorbing as well as valuable. He reminds us it’s meant to be funny, not performed as if being read from a lectern. Snobbery is not one of his vices: among Ade’s enthusiasms are Road Runner cartoons (‘better than Shakespeare’) as well as Tolstoy.
No account of a comic actor’s life would be complete without the obligatory spells of depression, self-doubt, even periods of suicidal thoughts. These are presented matter-of-factly, without self-pity, and to a suitable length. I think most will read the dissolution of his friendship with Rik in the same vein, which is delivered with sadness rather than rancour.
A puzzle is the omission of Ade’s routine about the pleasures of gardening, which is a mainstay of the live tour in support of this book. In it he describes how during the first lockdown, for the first time in decades, he stopped hearing the buzz of berserker’s adrenalin in his ears as he finally took the time, in the poet’s words, to stand and stare. He realised his acting career might never resume and, rather than gloom, felt an overwhelming sensation of peace and almost zen-like acceptance. He then sat in the tall grass of his large garden and watched the birds until evening fell. It would have further deepened the point made in the final chapter of this funny, wise book, which I want to quote in conclusion:
‘The Japanese have a tradition called kintsugi in which they mend broken pots with a gold-coloured pigment so you can see where the damage was. They’re proud of the repair. Part of the process of coming to terms with the damage is to show it off, and not be ashamed. The berserker in me feels like one of those pots - you can see my cracks, but I’ve been repaired, and I’m more or less fully functional.’
Long may he function.
October 4, 2023
Via Audiobook:
I'm an avid reader of autobiographies. I love a human story, whether the individual is famous or remarkable is beside the point. I was overcome with joy at discovering Adrian was to release this book. His work has been a companion to me my entire life and I had looked forward to some insight on a person I regard so highly.
I was severely disappointed by the first 60%-70% of this. I did not come to this with the hope of salacious details, sordid stories or gossip about his contemporaries. It felt as if this portion of the book was small talk, irrelevant surface information that didn't feel personal or interesting at all. A tour guide reciting facts about wool production or crop rotation in the 14th century.
I almost quit because I zoned out so often.
The pace and style of writing shifted completely in the last 40%-30%, moved into what I felt the book should've been all along and engaged me completely. Ade began to lower his guard and let us reach the man inside. Speaking on his relationship with Rik Mayall, insecurities around being taken seriously as a dramatic actor, not wishing to be defined as a comedian, fatherhood, the loss of loved ones, his most enduring friendships, musical passions, directing ambitions, school experiences, religious upbringing, the decline of his father and several other reflections I won't continue to spoil.
I could not admire Adrian more as a person or an actor. I hope there may one day be an additional volume or revision but am grateful for even a small glimpse of his humanity.
5 star person, maximum 3 star book.
I'm an avid reader of autobiographies. I love a human story, whether the individual is famous or remarkable is beside the point. I was overcome with joy at discovering Adrian was to release this book. His work has been a companion to me my entire life and I had looked forward to some insight on a person I regard so highly.
I was severely disappointed by the first 60%-70% of this. I did not come to this with the hope of salacious details, sordid stories or gossip about his contemporaries. It felt as if this portion of the book was small talk, irrelevant surface information that didn't feel personal or interesting at all. A tour guide reciting facts about wool production or crop rotation in the 14th century.
I almost quit because I zoned out so often.
The pace and style of writing shifted completely in the last 40%-30%, moved into what I felt the book should've been all along and engaged me completely. Ade began to lower his guard and let us reach the man inside. Speaking on his relationship with Rik Mayall, insecurities around being taken seriously as a dramatic actor, not wishing to be defined as a comedian, fatherhood, the loss of loved ones, his most enduring friendships, musical passions, directing ambitions, school experiences, religious upbringing, the decline of his father and several other reflections I won't continue to spoil.
I could not admire Adrian more as a person or an actor. I hope there may one day be an additional volume or revision but am grateful for even a small glimpse of his humanity.
5 star person, maximum 3 star book.
November 22, 2023
I listened to the audio book which was narrated by Ade himself. This was simultaneously funny, with fascinating anecdotes about Ade's life and work, but also emotional and poignant, revealing a vulnerable side to him. I listened whilst off sick from work, and it proved to be the perfect tonic. Afterwards I laughed myself silly watching re-runs of The Comic Strip and Bottom, which then made me want to listen to the whole thing again from the beginning. I might have to go and buy the actual book!
October 1, 2023
really enjoyed the humour and reflection on the latest autobiography from growing up in Bradford to school in Pockington and his studies at Manchester University and onto his comedy/acting career and his meeting with Richard Mayall
Read
June 27, 2024read this in a day, in the sunshine, in my parents garden, with my period still running 8 days late, and as a child I if I could’ve saved anything in a house fire it would have been the bottom box set I got given by my nan as a maybe ill judged xmas present. So perhaps this book was always going to make me a bit weepy and sentimental, but I think it was lovely and well written and insightful. all I want to do really is make my friends laugh and have them make me laugh !!!!!
January 10, 2024
Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall were a big part of my teenage years, I loved Bottom and could probably recite whole scripts. So it was so interesting to read Adrian's journey from the very start to becoming one part of my favourite ever double act.
I found some parts of it super emotional and found my heart breaking at times when he was talking about Rik after his accident, it was heart wrenching.
If you grew up like me watching them then I would highly recommend reading this
I found some parts of it super emotional and found my heart breaking at times when he was talking about Rik after his accident, it was heart wrenching.
If you grew up like me watching them then I would highly recommend reading this
October 8, 2023
What can I say about this book? Well first of all its very well written and easy to follow. Its funny, tragic, entertaining, revealing, educating and a very good read. Trouble is that most people see Adrian Edmondson and think 'ah Vyvyan' or 'ah Eddie out of bottom', but there is so much more than just a comedy performer. The amount of strings that he has to his bow is astonishing. From comedian and writer, to musician and singer and even music video producer and chef. Actually there is more but I wont spoil it too much (read it and see :) ). Definitely one of the best Autobiographies I have read, and I have read dozens of them. My favourite read of 2023 definitely :)
October 25, 2023
Great read explaining his difficult upbringing and lovely anecdotes regarding The Young Ones , Bad News , Bottom and many more. Loved it!
April 12, 2024
I enjoyed the character narration but it was sometimes difficult to follow as he jumps from one part of life to another in no order, although he does warn of this at the start!
February 18, 2024
Expect the laughs but be surprised by the tears. I enjoyed these past few days living in Ade’s head and peeking behind the ultra glamours off camera moments. A jolly romp with some really touching moments on what it all means.
(Note to the author: Just in case he reads this I thought Waiting for Godot was hilarious as well…but I don’t know anyone else that has even seen it. In which case we must be the authority on it.)
(Note to the author: Just in case he reads this I thought Waiting for Godot was hilarious as well…but I don’t know anyone else that has even seen it. In which case we must be the authority on it.)
December 18, 2023
It is always much more interesting to read about famous people's lives outside of their well documented highlight performances. This is therefore a very satisfying book as it has plenty of excellent stories about Edmonson's early life as well as his later adventures in bands. Listened to the audio book and very much enjoyed his company.
October 10, 2023
I gasped. I laughed out loud. I cried.
Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall were such a huge part of my upbringing, so to read about Adrian’s life journey, his partnership with Rik, the subsequent break-up of their double act, as well as the aftermath of Rik’s sudden death in this hilarious and honest autobiography broke me to pieces.
The child in me would love nothing more to have been able to see these two live. I spent many lonely hours growing up, sneaking my mum’s DVD box set of these comedy legend up to my bedroom where I would sit for hours in awe of them. I didn’t understand the jokes like I do now, but they’ll always be my comfort people
Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall were such a huge part of my upbringing, so to read about Adrian’s life journey, his partnership with Rik, the subsequent break-up of their double act, as well as the aftermath of Rik’s sudden death in this hilarious and honest autobiography broke me to pieces.
The child in me would love nothing more to have been able to see these two live. I spent many lonely hours growing up, sneaking my mum’s DVD box set of these comedy legend up to my bedroom where I would sit for hours in awe of them. I didn’t understand the jokes like I do now, but they’ll always be my comfort people
December 9, 2023
This book is full of humour as you would expect but it also gives a glimpse of how difficult and fragile life can be and how some expectations (especially with relationships/family/friends) are never as you imagine. This brought back such great memories and Ade is a very talented man - I saw him in Bad Shepherds at the Princess Pavilion!!
October 29, 2023
There is an absolute method to the folly and that is Adrian Edmondson’s Beserker. He points out the frivolity, stupidity, horror and ridiculous in so many parts of his life that seem so normal, so acceptable. As much as Adrian Edmondson was part of comedy gold in the Young Ones and Bottom, Beserker is more of a personal journey rather than chapter upon chapter of rambunctious anecdotes about being an actor in comedic roles (although there are some really great moments in here as well).
Adrian is a very talented and moving writer, and this book applauds this skill in what is delivered to us in Beserker. This is also apparent through all the shows he wrote and delivered over decades – and in this book he has taken a lot of care with the many personal moments in his life. There is a lot of history covered from his younger years, and with his relationship with his father. There is a lot of wit, personal insight and reflection about everything that he has undertaken, as well as very touching and meaningful descriptions of those he worked with like Christopher Ryan, Nigel Planer and the effervescent Rik Mayall. Oh Rik! Just like Adrian described, his attraction to the audience is still an unexplained phenomenon to Adrian. The book lightly and respectfully touches on Rik’s passing and it is here you can see how much the loss is still something Adrian is not ready to share with us.
Adrian is a very grounded soul, and the moments that are not touched on in this book are a reflection of this. How else could you not take a connection to being a Viking and being in a Star Wars movie seriously?
Thank to @macmillanaus for the #gifted copy.
Adrian is a very talented and moving writer, and this book applauds this skill in what is delivered to us in Beserker. This is also apparent through all the shows he wrote and delivered over decades – and in this book he has taken a lot of care with the many personal moments in his life. There is a lot of history covered from his younger years, and with his relationship with his father. There is a lot of wit, personal insight and reflection about everything that he has undertaken, as well as very touching and meaningful descriptions of those he worked with like Christopher Ryan, Nigel Planer and the effervescent Rik Mayall. Oh Rik! Just like Adrian described, his attraction to the audience is still an unexplained phenomenon to Adrian. The book lightly and respectfully touches on Rik’s passing and it is here you can see how much the loss is still something Adrian is not ready to share with us.
Adrian is a very grounded soul, and the moments that are not touched on in this book are a reflection of this. How else could you not take a connection to being a Viking and being in a Star Wars movie seriously?
Thank to @macmillanaus for the #gifted copy.
April 29, 2024
A lot better than the Rik Mayall (sham) autobiography I read recently, but regrettably probably a three and a half star rating as opposed to anything higher. I like Edmundson's style, I found this to be generally intelligent and witty, and I particularly enjoyed the fact there was plenty of frank discussion of his childhood. I quite liked the man before I read the book, and I probably liked him even more afterwards.
However, I couldn't escape a couple of issues. Firstly, though I understand he wanted to keep his family life (post meeting Jennifer Saunders) private, respect this, and wasn't demanding of juicy gossip about this, it started to feel a little strange/pointed in the second half of the book how much 'my professional life' stuff there was discussed and how little of the human, ordinary, personal stuff there was mentioned. It gave the whole book a slightly solipsistic feel.
More distractingly, however, was the fact I just don't find the anarchic slapstick type of comedy that characterises The Young Ones, Bottom, The Comic Strip Presents etc. very funny any more. I liked it in my teens, but since turning twenty have enjoyed it less. That's not to say it hasn't got a time and place for me, or that it wasn't important and formative in the development of Alternative Comedy, but that this was some years ago. I just was aware when reading a middle aged man talking about the silly stuff he did three decades earlier, that my tastes have changed but he (understandably) wouldn't be dismissive of it - so there was a gap.
However, I couldn't escape a couple of issues. Firstly, though I understand he wanted to keep his family life (post meeting Jennifer Saunders) private, respect this, and wasn't demanding of juicy gossip about this, it started to feel a little strange/pointed in the second half of the book how much 'my professional life' stuff there was discussed and how little of the human, ordinary, personal stuff there was mentioned. It gave the whole book a slightly solipsistic feel.
More distractingly, however, was the fact I just don't find the anarchic slapstick type of comedy that characterises The Young Ones, Bottom, The Comic Strip Presents etc. very funny any more. I liked it in my teens, but since turning twenty have enjoyed it less. That's not to say it hasn't got a time and place for me, or that it wasn't important and formative in the development of Alternative Comedy, but that this was some years ago. I just was aware when reading a middle aged man talking about the silly stuff he did three decades earlier, that my tastes have changed but he (understandably) wouldn't be dismissive of it - so there was a gap.
May 28, 2024
It was funny and sad and not at all what I was expecting. Ade is a thoughtful guy and he's had more than enough of an interesting life to warrant a book. I was obsessed with Bottom from a young age and I just couldn't not read this book.
What I enjoyed most was the amount of fun Edmondson has been able to achieve with his friends. It's endearing that a good chunk of his career has been spent laughing, writing and performing with people who he clearly gets on with.
I was shocked at the reason his professional and to some degree his personal relationship with Rik deteriorated. But you could tell Ade still loved Rik despite that and just wanted to be his friend. When reading that there was a lack of trust between them, and Rik was 'counting the number of jokes each of us had on his fingers' I did feel like Rik was living up to his character Richard Richard's bastardness. And Ade not being able to reconcile his reason for stepping back from Bottom with Rik before he died so suddenly, I couldnt help feeling bad for Ade.
The end of the book was a little harrowing. As was the beginning. Suicide and childhood assault I suppose are expected topics of discussion for a berserker but it does make for some fairly strong emotional responses.
I didn't know Ade had such a prolific musical career. I have begun listening to The Bad Shepherds and will no doubt be on YouTube trying to find his live act.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes the TV work associated with Ade's career but also he proves that he has moved on from his comedic past and is able to do much more than make us laugh. Also If you like a turn of phrase you will like this book.
What I enjoyed most was the amount of fun Edmondson has been able to achieve with his friends. It's endearing that a good chunk of his career has been spent laughing, writing and performing with people who he clearly gets on with.
I was shocked at the reason his professional and to some degree his personal relationship with Rik deteriorated. But you could tell Ade still loved Rik despite that and just wanted to be his friend. When reading that there was a lack of trust between them, and Rik was 'counting the number of jokes each of us had on his fingers' I did feel like Rik was living up to his character Richard Richard's bastardness. And Ade not being able to reconcile his reason for stepping back from Bottom with Rik before he died so suddenly, I couldnt help feeling bad for Ade.
The end of the book was a little harrowing. As was the beginning. Suicide and childhood assault I suppose are expected topics of discussion for a berserker but it does make for some fairly strong emotional responses.
I didn't know Ade had such a prolific musical career. I have begun listening to The Bad Shepherds and will no doubt be on YouTube trying to find his live act.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes the TV work associated with Ade's career but also he proves that he has moved on from his comedic past and is able to do much more than make us laugh. Also If you like a turn of phrase you will like this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2024
This was a really top autobiography written by someone extremely talented and funny. I vaguely remember 'the young ones', but what I really remember Adrian Edmondson from is 'Bottom'. It was a show I have watched countless times over the years and one from which I get so much laughter and joy out of it. It was fascinating going behind the scenes and seeing how the show came about with the brilliant late, great Rik Mayall.
The book starts with a bit of background where Adrian was born in Bradford, his school and family life, until he eventually gets on to tv and left his mark and how he meets his future wife, Jennifer Saunders.
Sometimes hilarious, sometimes tinged with sadness, Adrian has a very unique way of telling his story, which is so engaging that I just couldn't put the book down. It wasn't just comedic roles he excelled at as he's gone on to have a very successful career as a serious actor as well. His stories about Rik are brilliant , also delving deep into a friendship that wasnt always straightforward by any means but the one thing that shines through loud and clear is the ultimate bond they had with each other and the ability to make each other laugh as well as millions of their fans. They are a truly legendary British comedy double act up there with the very best.
Picking up this book, you will laugh out loud, maybe shed a tear, but you will learn a lot about a genius of comedy and what makes him tick. A great read
The book starts with a bit of background where Adrian was born in Bradford, his school and family life, until he eventually gets on to tv and left his mark and how he meets his future wife, Jennifer Saunders.
Sometimes hilarious, sometimes tinged with sadness, Adrian has a very unique way of telling his story, which is so engaging that I just couldn't put the book down. It wasn't just comedic roles he excelled at as he's gone on to have a very successful career as a serious actor as well. His stories about Rik are brilliant , also delving deep into a friendship that wasnt always straightforward by any means but the one thing that shines through loud and clear is the ultimate bond they had with each other and the ability to make each other laugh as well as millions of their fans. They are a truly legendary British comedy double act up there with the very best.
Picking up this book, you will laugh out loud, maybe shed a tear, but you will learn a lot about a genius of comedy and what makes him tick. A great read
October 15, 2023
I think autobiographies are the most personal books to experience. Not just because it’s someone’s life, but simply because how much it connects to you depends so much on your own journey and experiences.
But all that is to say that this is one of my favourite autobiographies that I can remember. I grew up with a friend in high school who used to perform Rik & Ade sketches and scenes to anyone who’d listen, he was an absolute icon for me in much the same way that Rik was for him. So naturally I was excited for this book, and boy did it deliver.
The book makes a wonderful dance between the comic and the tragic with such ease that I could go from laughter to genuine tears so quickly without it ever experiencing a tonal whiplash. Because there’s so much of his life truly is heartbreaking, but you can just as easily see how those moments led to his comedy so many years later.
If you just wanted behind the scenes gossip for the likes of Young Ones, Filthy, Rich & Catflap, then this might leave you disappointed, although there is understandably a bit more to talk about with Bottom. But if you’re a fan of the actor himself, then this is a real must read.
But all that is to say that this is one of my favourite autobiographies that I can remember. I grew up with a friend in high school who used to perform Rik & Ade sketches and scenes to anyone who’d listen, he was an absolute icon for me in much the same way that Rik was for him. So naturally I was excited for this book, and boy did it deliver.
The book makes a wonderful dance between the comic and the tragic with such ease that I could go from laughter to genuine tears so quickly without it ever experiencing a tonal whiplash. Because there’s so much of his life truly is heartbreaking, but you can just as easily see how those moments led to his comedy so many years later.
If you just wanted behind the scenes gossip for the likes of Young Ones, Filthy, Rich & Catflap, then this might leave you disappointed, although there is understandably a bit more to talk about with Bottom. But if you’re a fan of the actor himself, then this is a real must read.
Read
November 9, 2023Listened to the audiobook, beautifully read by the author.
Personal, touching and insightful.
Lots about his relationship with his father.
Shocked by his treatment at the hands of his schoolmasters - yet again reading about how damaging these schools are to the individuals (and inevitably thinking about what damage they do to the country)
Edmondson rises above this through a study of stoicism (and his family - reading between the lines, as he doesn’t talk much about his family life as an adult)
Obviously interested in his relationship with Rik Mayall, but so many more strings to his bow.
Comes across as talented, thoughtful and very likeable.
And will definitely remember the aunt with the frying pan…
Personal, touching and insightful.
Lots about his relationship with his father.
Shocked by his treatment at the hands of his schoolmasters - yet again reading about how damaging these schools are to the individuals (and inevitably thinking about what damage they do to the country)
Edmondson rises above this through a study of stoicism (and his family - reading between the lines, as he doesn’t talk much about his family life as an adult)
Obviously interested in his relationship with Rik Mayall, but so many more strings to his bow.
Comes across as talented, thoughtful and very likeable.
And will definitely remember the aunt with the frying pan…
November 14, 2023
Just finished this - honest; perceptive; reflective ; funny ; anecdotal and not over written - he tries hard to avoid or at least overcome the standard trot through career highs and lows and talks movingly about family and friends - a somewhat brutal isolated childhood and schooling / then suddenly complete creative freedom at university and the rest is pretty well known- very occasionally flabby when he lapses into listing career bits but redeemed by moving sections on losing friends and a reminder of his own battles- but always funny and genuine - five stars ( or at least 4.5!!) and it’s a nicely produced book with decent photos and paper … the berserker metaphor is well selected and deployed - an application for national treasure status - but he’s already there methinks
May 19, 2024
Entertaining and interesting man with a wide range of interests. He is the sort of person it would be lovely to spend a couple of hours with over a few drinks. He's pretty honest although I felt he was a bit tough on his dad. He is also revealing about Rik Mayall during the later years of their friendship and working career. Not sure if anyone who doesn't have some interest in him or his work would get much out of it though.
December 28, 2023
Not at all what I expected - just shows you that actors are acting and not the same as the characters they play.
Was expecting a slightly mad story in the style of Vivian from the Young Ones but this is very contemplative and slightly depressing although still an interesting, candid and revealing read.
Was expecting a slightly mad story in the style of Vivian from the Young Ones but this is very contemplative and slightly depressing although still an interesting, candid and revealing read.
July 7, 2024
I’ve read many biographies of British comedians. They’re normally pleasingly parochial in their showbiz trappings. Mixing stuff about fame with details of poor gigs in Hull. I’m glad the alternative comedy generation have now reached the age where they can tell their stories.
There are a few too many digressions here, but it’s a fun read which I devoured.
There are a few too many digressions here, but it’s a fun read which I devoured.
November 1, 2023
It felt like he worked harder at not being funny than he ever did at being humorous. But I loved reading some of the behind the scenes aspects, and especially the coming of age tale/s and the keen music focus.
December 9, 2023
Being a big fan of the young ones, bottom, comic strip & bad shepherds I thoroughly enjoyed his recounting his life & early experiences & influences & their impact on his key projects. There are quite a few laugh out loud moments in this. I think it is worth reading even if only a casual fan
October 24, 2023
An extraordinary book - heart-breaking and life-affirming in equal measure.
December 15, 2023
really enjoyed this reflection into ade's life, lots of great and funny stories but also poignant reflections on family and friendships
December 16, 2023
A fascinating account of an extremely varied life, with astute observations on loss and grief. I gained a great insight into the extent of Adrian Edmondson’s immense talent and also his mental health struggles. What I loved the most though was his depiction of his relationship with Rik Mayall and how - when they were at their closest and most brilliant - they made each other laugh uncontrollably.
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