Interview: Count Arthur Strong creator Steve Delaney on the character's origin | Ticketmaster UK

[@TheSilentStan]

I hope he realises how amazing he is for creating such a wonderful character. So underrated. He’s a comic genius.

[@robk3596]

@Sarah Crozier - Couldn't agree more! Shear brilliance in both writing & performing CAS to the highest level imaginable! I'll be having a good drop of sploosh after the show in Nov & now your talking my language I'm talking! I really do!

[@felineexceptional]

Totally agree. Steve deserves the same recognition and respect as David Jason gets for bringing DelBoy to life, greater in fact as Steve created Arthur. Graham Duff also deserves a ton of credit for how magnificent his script edits are.

[@robk3596]

@Carrie S, I don't know if you'll see this comment but so profound what you said. He's absolutely up there with the best & recently on my echo device I asked it to play some CAS. It couldn't find him but played the closest find it could find, a certain Tony Hancock!! Says it all 👍

[@myoldmate]

We get it. There are many however that don't, so some Marmite going on. I accidentally discovered CAS 10 years ago while listening to Radio4 Extra at work, it was the deck of cards skit, can't remember which episode it was, but I was helpless with laughter, much to the amusement of my workmates. After that I listened to everything. Steve Delaney is a comic genious. Creator, Writer, perfomer. A rare breed. One of the all time best.

[@robk3596]

@@myoldmate - Very fair my friend & well said. My wife demonstrates the marmite theory & many don't get his style. Saw him live last year & was absolutely brilliant + got to meet him after/autograph etc! Long live CAS & highest regards it's possible to do to him!

[@Nina5144]

This man is a genius. I saw him as Arthur at Exeter. Best night out and my stomach hurt so much from laughing

[@TimLondonGuitarist]

2 Arthurs ? Are they related ?

[@flashtheoriginal]

Had the privilege of seeing Arthur in concert last night in Norwich. With the bonus that he signed merchandise etc after the show and I got a quick chat, signature and pic. Steve is a lovely bloke, very humble. If he is touring near you, get out and indulge yourselves.

[@davidphilipsmusic]

Only just discovered CAS and I'm obsessed. I haven't cried with laughter in ages, but he has me in tears. Amazing character.

[@felineexceptional]

I'm actually jealous. There is so much joy to be had listening and watching Arthur for the first time.

[@conchitach1466]

Same feeling here!!! I can't stop laughing with his jokes!

[@captainswing4487]

It's good to hear me laugh my socks off....

[@iliketowatchvideos47]

Same,ha ha' the musical 'had me crying with laughter

[@willeel3750]

One of the best entertainers I've ever seen. Love the crazy character and his unbridled confidence.

[@edward311]

The man is a brilliant actor....and writer. Count Arthur Strong is one of the greatest comedy creations i've ever seen. He never ever fails to make me roar with laughter. A true comedy genius.

[@majiddaneshi6669]

He's a genius comedian.Wonderful character.I haven't cried with laughter in ages

[@peepodaylane]

I stumbled across a broadcast about 15 years back, it was an instant connection. I loved it. The brilliance is evident instantly. I wait for the voice changes, I adore the meanderings. The scripts are precious. Great cast, and perfect situations. I was hooked. I am not a geek, therefore have little idea about series numbers or what year this or that was produced. Got to admit to a cut off when it was on TV, I listened to some 2016 stuff this week, and it put me right back to when I first heard Count Arthur.. The character is exceptionally wonderful. My all time favourite. Only had one opportunity to see him live in York. My wife had never heard of him, but accompanied me to the show. To hear her manic laughter was a joy to behold. Long may this continue. Count Arthur is phenomenal.

[@bromptondevice7685]

I was wrong footed by how different the TV show was, but soon grew to live it as much as the radio version. There are subtle differences between the stage and radio personas as well. In a special feature on the DVD of the first TV series, he and Graham Linehan explain why the TV show was so different to the radio show. Steve stayed in character for the interview, but clear headed and lucid, as though the Arthur in the show is an act put on by the real Arthur. Mind bending.

[@MichaelSmith-jw7dn]

One of the best comedy characters!! I've cried with laughter countless times at his insane ramblings x much love Steve Delaney xx

[@Theoriginalsparkythemagicpiano]

We need the Count back on TV! Pure genius.

[@fenixfp40]

I’ve seen Arthur live a couple of times now, sodding marvellous.

[@iseeolly9959]

Always worth seeing this chap live........forget the rather poor TV show.......the radio and stage shows make me cry! xx

[@reachwash]

Definitely, cant believe how one can be so different from the other. Really wished there was more radio shows to come, pure comedy genius.

[@LTro9]

This guy is a national treasure! I really hope we continue to see the count for years to come

[@LocalRoofCleaners]

I'll never get over what a hash the BBC made of the TV series, the radio series is legendary

[@alanoneill3065]

Totally agree

[@HELVIS.]

make some more tv or radio shows please...you are the best !

[@Alji3dom]

Would live to see him live. Good that he pointed that out its only when Arthur starts talking is where the humour is. When ever I feel low I think yes Arthur and it works every time. The NHS should hire him.

[@bromptondevice7685]

When Victoria Wood first presented the script for "The Waitress" (two soups) to her producer, she says "It looks nothing on the page, but wait until you see Julie do it". Comedy geniuses can do that sort of thing.

[@jumpfortyfour9965]

please come back on the radio 4 it was gold

[@conchitach1466]

He's a genius comedian! So extraordinary!🏆🏆🏆💯💯💯

[@paulshilton5370]

Saw him at the Burnley Machines last night. Excellent show in every aspect. My sides ached all evening laughing. A masterpiece of classic comedy never to be surpassed. Thank you for an amazing evening never to be forgotten.

[@stephenandrews8419]

I popped out to get tickets for the show & came back with a bag of offal

[@robk3596]

You rarely ever see anyone so completely get into character the way Steve does! I consider him a comic genius of our time & can't wait to see him, sorry I meant CAS, in Nov. After the show I will report back about how good it was, at the highest level you can imagine & cut through all those red tapiers, I really do!

[@StodgeHenhouse]

Totally agree. The creation of Arthur is something of a profoundly psychiatric origin, in the nicest possible sense. Steve Delaney is a comedic genius, for sure. Arthur is pure joy to behold.

[@robk3596]

@@StodgeHenhouse - I couldn't have phrased it any better my friend. The radio series is pure gold & I suspect a lot of people don't appreciate the fact he also writes all the material, with some editing help! In November I'm going to try my level best to get to meet him after show, mostly to express my appreciation & in my case through it all I've definitely laughed!!

[@iseeolly9959]

it will be bloody brilliant mate! I liken the character to Captain Mainwaring....pompous but genuine, warm and quite British.....if a bit confused. I'd love to hear your feedback from the show.........better book my tickets, third time for me.

[@robk3596]

Spot on mate & can't wait! What a brilliant character & still going Strong, excuse the pun, for over 20 years! I pop into Gerry 'a cafe beforehand for two teas, as it's an offer he's doing! Your comment 's been marvellous, I really do!!

[@kevinstables5944]

I've seen him live 3 times,he is fantastic,I really do

[@bromptondevice7685]

Same here. The first time, I took two friends who didn't know anything about him. When he concussed himself at the end and told us to go to bed without washing our faces, half the audience knew the show was over and half didn't. I was one of many people explaining to companions "No, he won't come back now. He's already told Elsie to put the cat out."

[@bromptondevice7685]

I mean Doris, not Elsie. That's what I meant to say in the first place if you'd bothered listening. Rewind it when you get home.

[@lukesters7234]

Saw the wonderful Count Arthur at Caste in Doncaster last night. It was a joy from minute one but the final half an hour was truly one of the most sidesplittingly, crylaughingly, bentdoubly, laughoutlouduncontrollably 30 minutes I’ve ever seen. Catch this genius while you still can as his farewell tour can’t go on forever ….although after last night I’m not sure Arthur knows that. I always love hearing Steve talk with such intelligence and warmth about the gem of a comedy character he has shared with us for so many years. Lovely stuff

[@bluewaverenovationsltdpurt8104]

Only just discovered Arthur, i have been crying tears at some of the sketches. What a character, cheers Steve.

[@willoneill100]

I love count arthur strong. He's one of the funniest men I've ever seen. I'm going to see the tour he's talking about today. I can't wait 😁

[@illaveyoubutler2]

Just seen his show.....An utter genius.....his absence from British TV comedy is a disgrace

[@JETJOOBOY]

@@illaveyoubutler2 His Absence from Radio is an adsolute TRAGEDY

[@iliketowatchvideos47]

Seen him live twice, fuckin legend

[@bromptondevice7685]

I can never again see Brian Cox without hearing Arthur's dulcet tones saying "Brian Cox, with his big floppy face".

[@billygillan821]

Such amazing guy just met him after his performance in Aberdeen, and truly brilliant performance, he is one of those seeking folk you wish you could spend more time because he is so interesting

[@judithtrigg1694]

So glad that he enjoys the character lovely to hear so many character actors end disliking the person.rock on Arthur we love you.❤😂🎉

[@eloise655]

Thank you so much, for creating this characteri I coping with long Covid and he has really made me laugh so much .😂

[@lpanayi6954]

Sheer talent and a joy to watch and listen to. More of this sort of thing, please!

[@stevenmurphy6479]

Brilliant show mate. I came to it late. Wish it was continuing. Very funny.

[@martm216]

Had the privilege of meeting Steve Delaney twice at the Theatre Royal in Winchester. He came out to the foyer to do signings after the show - lovely guy. I had been under the impression that the Count himself was going to come and meet his adoring public, but apparently he was a little the worse for wear having got the neck off a bottle of scotch, so he sent Steve as his representative . . .

[@louismcteggart]

He must have had a low tolerance to large amounts of alcohol

[@ianpassey2174]

Seen him twice , totally different show and nothing repeated , his humour is fantastic I just love count Arthur strong what a leg end 😂

[@raycope2086]

Thanks Steve, for bringing us all the funniest character in decades. He/ you should be on a prime time slot on our televisions mate, and our radios too on a Sunday lunchtime. The character is utterly unique and simply hilarious, and I'm sure many of us know an older gentleman just like Arthur, but without the theatrical background. We need you back on our screens immediately, my friend. I wish you rainbows. Do some podcasts even. That will spread the word, I'm sure.

[@iainb1577]

Steve Delaney, Stan Laurel and Bob Mortimer are the only 3 comedians who can always make me physically laugh out loud. All three know how to extract a visceral reaction fom the audience and they do it perfectly.

[@aiferapple1246]

Got my ticket to see The Count once again :) I can't wait!!

[@eveeve9758]

I found the tv sit com and loved it. Beautiful character

[@bensontroy1526]

Astounding work as a sustained comic character. The toughest part of what he has created, is to constantly refresh the character so the entire atmosphere he creates is a never ending sweet which never loses its flavor or melts away. Cast in the genre of Chaplin, Bean among others. He is the live human version of a silly puppet. Much loved, respected and cherished by us all...

[@starfan1437]

We love the Count!

[@acrobaticcripple8176]

Always wondered. Now I know. The bloke behind it all. Brilliant!!

[@bluecanary1note]

Count Arthur Strong always reminded me of Harry Worth. When I met Steve Delaney after a Count Arthur Strong show, I wish I'd asked him whether Harry Worth was an influence.

[@rogergalley3572]

Bang on there with that post.

[@judithbateson6353]

Thank you for giving us Count Arthur.

[@ep8029]

Wonderful character. Marvellous bizarre humour. Thank you for all the laughs Mr Delaney.

[@euronick61]

Count Arthur is brilliant I have seen him 3 times on tour now .. all excellent

[@EricaNernie]

Just love Count Arthur Strong! He is one of comedy's great inventions.

[@Piccarblick]

Came across Count Arthur on BBC iPlayers ‘featured’ section…omg what a gem of a TV show! SO FUNNY! Wish I could find the whole show in the US.

[@olf777f]

What a wonderful gem

[@johnlormor2576]

There used to be an Arthur in every pub years ago 😅

[@MLB9000]

I was waiting for the twist at the end where it’s revealed that Steve’s just sitting there on his own

[@BubblewrapMe]

The background music added enormously to this interview. Thank you.

[@scintillasparkles]

😅🤣😂🤣😂

[@rogergalley3572]

I’ve just watched this through the wonders of the Ilfracombe, such enlightened times we live in.

[@jeremypearson6852]

After many years away from the UK and living in Florida, I discovered Arthur by accident this year. I never knew who Steve Delaney was, but he’s got some imagination. I think I’ve listened to all of the CAS radio shows there are. I find him incredibly irritating at times, but that’s what makes him who he is. His friends on the show deserve medals.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

The Count is my favourite comedy character from the last 20 years - the radio show especially. I’m disappointed that the show isn’t on the telly or the wireless anymore - it was really developing well as a tv series, and the radio show used to have me in tears of laughter - but I’m glad that there are new tours. I really do.

[@dabedwards]

A titan of comedy! There is a very small number of comedy actors capable of creating a whole universe that stands independently of the shows they appear in. I can only think of Dame Edna and Alan Partridge. The character of Arthur is hilarious because it is supported by a beautifully constructed background and acute observation. He is a modern myth. There's a bit of Arthur in all of us, I really do. The TV-versus-Radio controversy is rather pointless. Of course the character is less misanthropic on TV, but the producers had to make a judgment call, and I think they were right. The character of Arthur is strong enough to be pulled in different directions to suit the medium. Let's hope we see a return of Arthur to either radio or TV before too long. Thank you so much for all the pleasure over the years!!

[@bromptondevice7685]

You're quite right, the two series are different things, and there's no reason not to enjoy both really. Unless you've been off sick and come back too soon.

[@Baltihunter]

I’m screaming for more Arthur. On the telly!

[@oldmanonabike233]

Started watching on Netflix, really enjoying it. I was in stitches by episode 3. Especially the free willy reference to the Salmon. Great show so far, love it.

[@Julian-zj2qy]

I bought a series cd set at one of the Count Arthur Strong shows and I never tire of playing them. Very funny.

[@kimholland9316]

I saw the two latest shows 'is there anybody out there' and 'the sound of mucus'. Brilliant

[@bromptondevice7685]

The Man Behind The Slime was great too, but the DVD doesn't have three of the best bits from the stage show on it.

[@thespiancaine]

GENIUS

[@deewhobewatty9003]

I wish he was back on telly, loved the TV series and radio shows.

[@DaveyL1954]

I've got my tickatapes, wickets, oooohhhh tickets to see Anita Harris oh, Count Arthur in Doncaster next February, I really do. And let me tell you this, You'll have to get up a long time before me, to catch me coming back from where ever it is I've been. And there was no fruit. That's how tough it was.

[@robk3596]

Really like your comment Dave, clearly a fan like my good self! I'm just off for two cups of toast & a slice of tea, no will you listen!!!

[@stephenandrews8419]

Well you just make sure you mind your head...........on that light fitting !

[@aiferapple1246]

You couldn't make it up!

[@thetruth156real3]

dave piano The times me and the wife say, there was no fruit! 😂😂

[@bevla341]

Excellent.! So much better on the Radio

[@peterg6677]

Love his meandering ramblings and clever word play, a complete joy to your ears and makes you realise what a fully rounded character he is, let's get him back on TV instead of some of this so called " comedy " which is about as funny as something that's not funny at all

[@alanoneill3065]

I prefer the Radio Shows

[@mand8686]

Can’t wait to see him in Swansea in March 2020. Tickets already bought and now counting down days 😊

[@JETJOOBOY]

Did you go?

[@mand8686]

Yes I did and Count Arthur was amazing 🙂

[@royswansborough5637]

We love you!!!

[@cgmat7804]

There is a unique skill in playing an old timer with such conviction that young people relate

[@lorraineparker8986]

The first time I came across count Arthur radio show was on radio 4extra many years ago, I was laughing so much if I had been driving I would have crashed my car, seen him 3 times live now, he is truly a one off 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@m1sterrattles764]

Love it. I actually am very taken with the TV show as well, particularly the “clocks going back episode”. Reading his book at the moment with Arthur’s voice in my head. It’s very funny.

[@stumpy5353]

I saw this show for the first time on Netflix in May 2021 and wow This is absolutely brilliant, though it looks rather stupid initially, the character of Count Arthur Strong is portrayed in such a way the character becomes real. The funniest show I have seen ion a long time, please make more......I have watched 3 series 4 times and still laugh every time.

[@harveysmith100]

Welcome to the club, I mean that, I really do.

[@myoldmate]

Before Netflix he had several seasons on BBC radio as Count Arthur Strongs Radio Show. Check it out they're comedy gold dust.

[@stumpy5353]

@@myoldmate cheers i will ty

[@myoldmate]

@@stumpy5353 here's one episode. kzbin.info/www/bejne/joHZfXatr9eHhsU It's from series 4 episode two back in 2009. Hope you enjoy.

[@davidreid5672]

Superb stuff keep it coming!

[@flasheart3817]

Steve is gradually turning into Arthur as he gets older

[@alancooper9632]

A pure genius.

[@gary-u6x]

Met Steve in Chelmsford some years ago, very nice guy.

[@jonfindlay123]

Just seen the Count in Buxton on his alleged final tour, utterly sublime comedy. Steve Delaney is right up there with John Cleese, Ronnie Barker, Barry Cryer et al in the writing stakes.....catch him if you can, its a joyous 2 hours guaranteed.

[@iainmacvicar5858]

Been a fan since 'e were on radio.

[@frankie3041]

2:05 “It’s not until Arthur gets up and starts doing it…” Even Mr Delaney thinks the Count is real!! That’s how good CAS is!

[@freebornjohn6876]

From the tv series, my all time favourite episode has to be the one with the flying lesson, and the gang fight with "The Urchins". I laugh every time I think of it.

[@Capillus]

Long live Steve Delaney! Long live Leeds!

[@deepfryblue]

long live Doncaster..Doncaster....Doncaster

[@angie9430]

Hes a comic genius !

[@ability2fly]

Brilliant

[@annoyingbstard9407]

The tour’s been a hit with all the crickets.

[@PC1974]

Very underrated - Count Arthur Strong is a comedy great right up there with Delboy, Blackadder and Alan Partridge. The daft BBC cancelled his TV series but luckily I've got the DVDs.

[@timhancock6626]

One thing springs to mind when the name Count Arthur Strong is mentioned, but I can't remember what it is !

[@homahak]

Count Arthur, I hope you realise the strength of your following. You are a Genii and an expiring aspiration to these of us who are still sufficiency praying mantis to get what you may or er.. may not be on about. And with that I’ll sing off…

[@niansenx]

Hysterical genius.

[@carfan7727]

Arther strong forever great stuff should be back on the TV but i first heard hin on radio think that was even better

[@balvenie55]

Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Steve Delaney, same class and originality Brilliant original comedy.

[@craigvalberg7397]

Legend.

[@martinpowell5769]

Great stuff

[@berniewighton1496]

brilliant man

[@andrewjacobs3219]

Mr Delaney is a genius . When he did Arthurs version of the sound of music and also the flying lesson sketch just thinking of them makes me laugh . Arthur is a wonderful warm lovely man .

[@malp78]

"I don't know who has posted this but whoever it is being interviewed here, it is definitely not me" says Count Arthur. "I find it incredible that any old Tom, Dick or Mary can put themselves up to be someone that they are not. And, as I say, this is most definitely not me or someone that could be me. Which I am not. How these these imposters are allowed to get away with it on the Ilfracombe is beyond me. Mark Hindenburg should be made to sort these things out"

[@bromptondevice7685]

I tried to show this to Count Arthur, but he was too busy trying to find the glasses that he looks for his glasses with to watch it.

[@alanward4506]

Absolute comedy genius,up there with Alan Partridge and Basil Fawlty,British brilliance.

[@jeanlechen3123]

Superb. My dad's from Moortown too. No1 fanxxx #RoopaTroopa

[@TownHouseFilms]

Genius!

[@Seansaighdeoir]

Comedy genius - thanks for Arthur Steve a truly special creation.

[@paulinerodgerson2476]

You are hilarious. I'm booking Leeds!

[@danmcdaid]

Very excited to see the big man in... May?

[@rachelcorson3555]

OMG is this the same Stephen Dillane ( Delaney ) who I swooned over in the Rectors Wife? Poor fella, all his notable acting achievements and im citing a mere 3 episode guest appearance ..lol . he was in Poirot xmas special too? Sergent Coombs ?

[@jumpfortyfour9965]

he is better on radio it never worked on tv. comic gold as arthur would say

[@uncleambient]

Steve is a comedy genius.