Taskmaster: The British Comedy Phenomenon Sweeping the US
In a surprising turn of events, the British comedy show 'Taskmaster' is making waves across the Atlantic, captivating audiences in the United States. What started as a quirky panel show in the UK has now become a global sensation, with a dedicated fanbase and sold-out live tours. Here’s a closer look at how 'Taskmaster' is taking over US TV.
The Unscripted Joy of Taskmaster
'Taskmaster' is a unique comedy panel show where five comedians compete in a series of absurd and often bizarre tasks set by the show's eponymous Taskmaster, Greg Davies. Created by Alex Horne, the show first debuted in the UK in 2015 and has since gained a massive following, thanks in large part to its unscripted nature and the hilarious reactions of the contestants.
A Unique Format
The show’s format is simple yet brilliant. Each season, five comedians compete over ten episodes, completing tasks that range from eating watermelon in under a minute to painting a portrait with their feet. The tasks are arbitrary, and the points are given arbitrarily by Davies, who plays a dictatorial Taskmaster character. This unpredictability keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, never knowing what to expect next.
YouTube Success
One of the key factors behind 'Taskmaster's' international success is its popularity on YouTube. The show’s hilarious and often outrageous content has found a home on the platform, where it has amassed a dedicated following. This has helped the show transcend borders and gain a foothold in the US, where it is now becoming a household name.
Live Tours and Growing Popularity
The show’s growing popularity in the US was evident during its limited live show tour this January. Davies and Horne, along with guest comedians, visited cities like Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and New York, where the shows were completely sold out. The enthusiasm of the fans was palpable, with many dressing up as characters from the show, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Comic-Con.
Fans and Stars Alike
During the live shows, Davies and Horne engaged with fans, answering questions and even inviting audience members to participate in the tasks alongside guest comedians. This interactive element added to the charm of the show, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. Comedians like Joel Kim Booster and Chris Getherd joined the live events, adding to the fun and excitement.
American Comedians Join the Fray
As the show’s popularity grows, it’s no surprise that American comedians are eager to be a part of it. Jason Mantzoukas, known for his roles in 'The Good Place' and 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine', joined 'Taskmaster' for Season 19. Even more exciting is the upcoming 21st season, which will feature Kumail Nanjiani of 'Silicon Valley' and 'The Big Sick', alongside 'Veep' creator Armando Ianucci.
A Wishlist of Stars
Davies and Horne have expressed their desire to have more American comedians on the show. Their wishlist includes names like Sarah Silverman, Mike Birbiglia, Ali Wong, and Conan O’Brien. They believe that anyone who understands the ethos of the show would be a great fit, as the magic of 'Taskmaster' lies in the complete buy-in of the contestants and the unique characters they portray.
The Taskmaster Franchise
'Taskmaster' is not just a show; it’s a franchise that has expanded across the globe. From New Zealand to Sweden to Croatia, different versions of the show have been created, each with its own twist on the original format. This global reach speaks to the universal appeal of the show’s humor and its ability to bring people together through laughter.
A Lasting Legacy
Created by Alex Horne after a concept he debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2010, 'Taskmaster' has come a long way. What started as a small, quirky idea has now become a cultural phenomenon, with a lasting legacy that continues to grow. The show’s success in the US is just the latest chapter in its incredible journey.
Conclusion
'Taskmaster' is more than just a comedy show; it’s a celebration of humor, creativity, and the absurd. Its success in the US is a testament to the universal language of laughter and the show’s ability to bring people together. Whether you’re a fan of British comedy or just looking for a good laugh, 'Taskmaster' is definitely worth watching. Keep an eye out for its upcoming seasons and live events – you won’t want to miss out on the fun.
