Five Mantras for life by Rik Mayall, Honorary Doctorate of the University of Exeter

[@oliverscampton5833]

I was in the audience here during my own graduation, I come back about once a year to rewatch this speech, those 5 mantras currently serving me well. 👏🏼👏🏼 RIP Rik ❤️

[@SeanHendy]

Oliver you were very lucky to have witnessed this in person. The equivalent at my graduation was some nameless pianist who began his speech basically by saying that he hadn't written anything and was just going to say whatever came into his head. Cue 10 mins+ of mindless drivel that was totally forgettable and meant nothing. Rik was a one of a kind that's for sure.

[@americanpatriot2999]

Young ones, Black Adder, Drop Dead Fred. What a comedic genius!!!

[@egyptology22]

The best memories to have. You're very lucky. Can I add a 6th mantra? Listen to Ricks 5 mantras!

[@fredfinks]

This house will become a shrine, and punks and skins and rastas will all gather round and hold their hands in sorrow for their fallen leader. And all the grown-ups will say ‘But why are the kids crying?’ And the kids will say, ‘Haven’t you heard? Rick is dead! The People’s Poet is dead!’ And then one particularly sensitive and articulate teenager will say ‘Other kids, do you understand nothing? How can Rick be dead when we still have his poems?

[@SISU889]

RIP , Rick . You are so missed .....

[@winniewinston8377]

Found this very touching, met him once in a hotel bar in Leeds 25 years, had a few pints together - he was wonderful company , one of my most treasured memories. I doubt he'll be resting in peace , rather he'll be shaking things up a bit

[@sundaypeople5791]

Around 95 then, few years before the quadbike. Not yet 40, enjoying it altogether at a height: success, friends, drinking, family, life! Was one of the few famous people who didn't shy away from being known in public!❤️❤️

[@badhamian]

A bright light went out when this great man passed away but it shines on us brighter than ever as the years pass by. Thanks for being gloriously you Rik x

[@sundaypeople5791]

That's such a sweet answer and each word is true, he shines on! Now and then new young or old ones come to get to know him and the moment you know him you love him!❤❤

[@adods9824]

Well said ! 👍😁

[@PersonalityMalfunction]

Rik Mayal is the man who helped me survive those horrible, awkward teenage years of acne, bad haircuts, desperate, crippling social anxiety and fear of making a fool of myself in front of friends and girls! Bless you, Rik!

[@christopherdean1326]

Dr Rik Mayall. Actor, Comedian, Force of Nature, and wonderful human being. RIP.

[@frazzleface753]

Rik Mayall was a rare light in my life when it was almost complete darkness. Thank you Rik. RIP.

[@steve-r-collier]

why didnt you buy a light bulb?

[@johnman559]

@@steve-r-collier Stop it, my sides are splitting.

[@MrFinnov8]

I come back to watch this glorious speech from time to time, you were one of a kind Dr Rik Mayall and a marvellous human being, RIP you magnificent b’stard!

[@christianlesurfmusic]

1. All men are equal, therefore no one can ever be your genuine superior. 2. Your future is as bright as you make it. 3. Change is a constant of life, so you must never ever lose your wisdom. 4. If you want to live a full and complete human life, you have to be free. 5. Love is the answer.

[@sidb37]

Say what you see Le Surf!

[@freidaswift4163]

And now he's gone. I hope everyone remembers what he's said...miss you Rik

[@christianlesurfmusic]

@@freidaswift4163 I actually have those five mantras on a post it on my computer to remind myself of his beauty.

[@jamusjackson9779]

@stephen noonan I think he was summarising, so as not to rattle on for too long. While I most certainly agree with your statement, my perception of what he meant is that the as the world changes constantly and technologies inevitably become obsolete, one day the world could change so completely that you may find yourself without the contemporary luxuries you've become accustomed to, and all you have to survive is what's inside your head. Knowledge is power.

[@mrsolodolo5770]

@stephen noonan only if you dont understand rhe meaning of it

[@dannobeats8702]

What a fantastic human being. A genuine national treasure for us here in the UK.

[@kateballam6942]

I cried for a fortnight from the day I heard Rik had died. I still miss him. He was a beautiful soul.

[@SteveWilsonGU1]

me too

[@donewithyourshit7303]

I still do... Miss him so much, he is the brightness in my time if darkness

[@marksummerfield9103]

When I get low, I ALWAYS come back to this speech. Thankyou for the smiles and laughter!

[@garyt3039]

And all the punks and skins and Rastas held hands and cried for there fallen leader,and the parents said but why are the kids crying?coz Rik is dead, the peoples poet is dead...RIP RIK.gone but never forgotten,a national treasure, Un-replaceable, thanks for all the big belly laughs Rik we all loved you. Now God has a Jester.x.

[@thesprawl2361]

Brilliant Gary, brilliant

[@matthewtymaja3760]

Watch the last film he made, ‘one by one’ (2014). He died shortly after so that is is last work

[@ndflips9565]

@@matthewtymaja3760 he knew

[@kevinbirge2130]

Amen.

[@kevinmayhew8738]

now and then a person comes along who enriches society in one form or another, whilst there would have been undeniable chaos at times, I would have dearly loved to have known Rik Mayall personally.🥺🇬🇧

[@360p3]

I was rasied on Rik and Ade's comedy. My childhood was difficult and their work got me through it. I love them both for their work as it helped me so significantly and shaped my sense of humour and personality (for the better) growing up. I was in Hammersmith for an interview the year Rik died and I ran to the traffic island used in the bottom intro to see if a memorial I had heard about online was still there (it was a giant pair of stained underwear and letters from fans). It was, and I cried, as ridiculous as the situation was; and I realised how much his comedy and he as a person had meant to me. I constantly return to watch his work over and over again and probably will till I die too. He was a great person and comedian and will always be my favourite. He seemed like a really sincere bloke. I had lost a very close friend in the same week Rik died, and that week in June was one of the worst weeks of my life. I wholly sympathise with what Ade went through during that time.

[@Lenixionthegreat]

I find myself re watching his previous stuff too, the intro to bottom really upsets me, when Rik vanishes as the bus passes by and you just see Ade sat there by himself for a moment really hits home :/

[@stumac869]

Rik Mayal an 80s icon and wil never forget his impact on my childhood.

[@oktfg]

Few could make a serious point with quite so much fun, wit and swagger as Rik Mayall. The world is slightly more miserable without him.

[@dfernand101]

Floella Benjamin giving Rik Mayall an honorary doctorate ... you couldn't make it up. amazing.

[@RogueBrit]

Met her she was amazing and lovely.

[@RyanJohnson-ox3py]

Floella Benjamin use to kiss the TV when she was on playschool still a beautiful lady

[@daviddickinson936]

Had the pleasure of being a volunteer in rehearsals for graduation at Exeter - I "received" three degrees from her in that time and she was lovely to meet.

[@mrhed0nist]

I think she was the first woman to give me the horn. And I was racist then, as it was fashionable in the 70s.

[@thesprawl2361]

@@Jack__Reaper

[@servicekid7453]

Rik Mayall was a most extraordinary human being. Totally lovable, unbelievably funny, endlessly entertaining. If only a few more could follow his lit path…..

[@Joe0161]

As a higher education lecturer let me just firstly admit that while I'll never be as funny as Dr. Mayall was, I'll always aspire to be as honest and inspirational. R.I.P. Rik

[@VixxyMcN]

Joe Shorrocks here here

[@richardhughes8968]

I'm sitting here typing this waiting for my son to graduate in the same hall at Exeter Uni as Rik gave this speech. I wished he was giving the speech today.

[@philkasafir.]

When he said "bon voyage" my eyes filled up... Still can't believe he's gone, the past year has gone so fast. Even in death he makes time fly by.... Rest in peace you beautiful person. I love you Rik

[@Nautilus1972]

+Phil Kasafir 'kin 'ell.

[@BeBooBoopBeepBeep]

the speech actually made me cry, he is was and always will be a personal icon

[@tobyaughnotobi3919]

An absolute legend. Never has any other celebrity's death affected me so much. What a talent he was. I can only imagine him running amok in heaven! Give 'em hell Rik! We will never forget you down here.

[@Seventeen_Seconds]

My childhood hero what an absolute legend, the only person that can make me laugh without even opening his mouth. This is the best video on KZbin for so many reasons.

[@jaceelliott7659]

A man should of lived into his 80s and more. I was devastated when I heard he had died.

[@kyronwalsh]

Or had been killed… What some say (because of his last film)…

[@Kurtturner1]

I will feel forever blessed for getting to see him live on quite a few occasions, The man was an absolute Genius. Although I often think back with pity that I didn’t spend an extra 90 minutes waiting out the back after the show like them weird fans as we used to call them. Just to shake his hand, just to say thanks for being you. Rip You Complete baastad.

[@tomhorwat5313]

Me too, he was a force of nature.

[@1959Berre]

As long as we remember Rick, he will be alive. And that is going to be for a very long time. R.I.P. Rick, the world is a sadder place now. Thank you for your legacy.

[@jackiefriedman196]

Blew my mind away such a superb unique amazing guy "live life to the full"we are here for fun not forever xx

[@ChrizRockster]

He never changed, and that's the most inspirational thing. He could as easily get into his Young-Ones character right there and then.

[@Eructation1]

Odd how I awoke this morning feeling sad that Rik is not with us, went on KZbin for some diy advice and found this video. I now feel very happy and laughing having heard his comedic banter again. I love British comedy and comedians, it’s a gift from the gods.

[@tonyevans22]

He was my idol,he taught us that even though we are grown up we can still have a young heart and act silly.An inspiration to many,and sorely missed already.Gutted he has gone.RIP Sir Rik.

[@Crazycupmuffin]

This man made me laugh more than anybody ever has. And he continues to do so. Long live in our hearts and our tele Rik!

[@TheMusicTimeMachine.]

5 years ago today. Yeah i am shedding a tear today for the loss of my comedy hero! I miss you so much and so glad that i got to see you live. R.I.P Rik

[@westermolad]

I love that the description states: "Warning: This video contains some swearing.", I'd have been disappointed if it didn't! May his humour continue to live on in each of us.

[@vjhvcjhcv6816]

What a guy! Rik brightened up my otherwise miserable life. Much love.

[@MatthewJohnCrittenden]

RIP. "How can Rick be dead when we still have his poems?"

[@stevebentley2345]

Peoms?

[@jonnyhaw]

@@stevebentley2345 It's a Young One's quote.

[@stevebentley2345]

@@jonnyhaw I was quoting from Bottom Live 2 when Rik is 'speaking Nottingham' "Duh, duh, duh duh duh duh.... Robin 'Fucking' Hood..."

[@andrewballetto7641]

@@stevebentley2345 try spelling it right you bumbag!

[@Ichinin]

-"Pollution... are you coming to my town, or am i coming to yours? Ha!"

[@scox7748]

No one said that to me and thats why im up at midnight watching rik mayall clips

[@garethgee]

"Love is the answer" - well said, Ryk!

[@danpatterson7108]

My favourite human, miss him everyday!

[@FoodFitnessAlways]

mine too Dan

[@georgefogg5703]

I

[@BillyJango]

+dan Patterson Me too. I will never forget the day he died. I called into my local pub after work for a beer and the landlord told me Rik Mayall had died that day. I was gutted. I got so drunk that day and then I came home and tattooed Rik's name on myself. The man is a legend. He is missed by everyone who adored him!

[@Born2BLoud]

exactly the same ... Wikk is a real Hero

[@BillyJango]

My house will become a shrine! Punks, and skins and Rastas will gather in sorrow for their fallen leader! The grown-ups will say, "Why are the kids crying?" And the kids will say, "Rik is dead!! The people's poet is dead!" Then one particularly sensitive, articulate teenager will say "Do you understand nothing? How can Rik be dead when we have his poems? "

[@SaraLauchlan]

Most brilliant genuine heartfelt speech. RIP Rik, the world is a greyer place without you.

[@pauldelve5793]

Simply quite brilliant, you are greatly missed, and even more in these very troubled times.

[@marshallmatters1526]

Thank you Rik Mayall for the laughter. Thank you so much for being you.

[@paulfromdevon4707]

Rik and Floella - two legends from my formative years. Both in the same hall that I graduated in and in my own home city. Bliss

[@RoninGroupUK]

What an amazing unique talent he entertained us with. Such a loss for us and such a gain for the heavens. Rest in peace Rik. Love is the answer brother X

[@robwish85]

I miss you Rick. You continue to make me laugh uncontrollably.

[@JamesFlinders]

I wish I could click the like button multiple times and have it count. This is 10 minutes of pure unadulterated Joy.

[@picklesthewise]

It's been years since I've seen this whole thing, and I still remember all of it. Absolutely love this. Love IS the answer ❤❤❤

[@Chris29_11]

This video is absolutely brilliant!! Such a unique and genius personality! What a big shame that he is gone... :(

[@jamesbudd991]

I was instantly brought to tears seeing this video, Rik he was my Idol as well as Ade, R.I.P Rik, you may be dead but true legends never die

[@adamclark8994]

Rik Mayall was a legend and always made me laugh. R.I.P.

[@You_Dont_Like_My_Music]

Wiser than most philosophers. RIP Rik.

[@MrWackywilson]

Since his passing.... I admit he was spot on with his knowledge of the powers that be... And the world today...

[@jeannewsome7233]

Loved to watch Rik. Sad loss Gone far too soon.

[@Shindai]

One of a kind, what a great bloke.

[@joannethompson6899]

Watching Rik Mayall is truly my happy place 😁

[@VixxyMcN]

Takes my breath away this man has made me smile for a huge part of my life I'm so grateful to him. I love you Rik RIP my friend

[@fayeayres6655]

Absolute genius of a man gone way to soon one of my favourite men of all time we love you rik 😢

[@Samuel_J_Russell]

Legend. The Young Ones will always be one of the funniest British sitcoms and one of the most influential. Thanks for the laughs Rik. RIP

Fantastic words, very deep. I loved the one when he says that all men are created equal and that nobody can be your genuine superior. Strong words. The sheer effortless confidence this man has is beyond compare... I often think that if I were so blessed with his level of confidence in one self, I'de be able to accomplish everything.

[@kenhanson27]

A true legend. Such a great shame he's no longer with us. The episode of bottom, with the bloke coming to read the gas meter. Epic.

[@B33FY2011]

The best one was the Miss World competition. That one had me crying when Eddie says he didn't put the bet on in the first place, rather just said did cause he knew Richie would watch it 🤣🤣🤣

[@poppedweasel]

Next time the gas man comes to read your meter, please play this on full blast kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIGseIOLmtJggM0

[@chriscollier7469]

My favourite episode is the one with the women attractant spray, where he tries to remove his nasal hair with a pair of pliers

[@cw1967]

What a towering personality....what true words.... remember in these dark times " freedom IS paramount".

[@raylooney1788]

What great advice to give to these youngsters,mind you this man was wonderful.He will be sadly missed by many.Thanks again rik.xx

[@jamespoultney3406]

best speech I've ever heard. what a man ! love u rik

[@nintiwirri]

Brilliant speech

[@953steve]

First time I saw this I felt emotional. Second time more! Just as my children are in the throes of university life, this is something they should see as it epitomises what I’ve been trying to have them grasp in order to live full, rich and contented lives. I’ll make sure they do. Cheers Rik ...R.I.P

[@DanaHunterroulette]

What an incredible person. We have lost someone so very special to this world.

[@buna5450]

Keep coming back. Thank you Rick!

[@SlaaneshiChaplain]

Equality. Opportunity Wisdom Freedom Love.

[@corbeau-_-]

love...

[@giles901able]

Bollocks!

[@rumpraisin]

I don't see much of these 5 mantras being put into practise in 2018.

[@Urov.]

Cringe

[@MsMesem]

@@rumpraisin Yep , especially the freedom.

[@mccoll78]

What a man.

[@zazuzazz5419]

Versatile, brilliant, passionate, obnoxious, darling man!!! Love you, Rik!!!

[@luciferbox5577]

Still can't believe he's gone, even after all these years. A true comic genius.

[@eriks.2275]

They will never forget it, love to see it❤.

[@margeryfranko1850]

Beautiful ... thank you Rik Mayall 💜 Love and Light 💜🙏🏾💙

[@petermccarthy4525]

Just brilliant. I’ve been through loads of these ceremonies, but nothing like this. Remember, he said, ‘question everything’

[@heddwyn3914]

Love IS the answer.

[@graytaylor10]

My drama teacher is in this, she graduated from here! Woop woop! Love Rik so much, such an amazing legend xxxxx

[@hsiadarb8062]

Rik Mayall will be missed but not just yet, he's still here in our hearts and minds ... memoirs will fade with time but not his humour, thank you for being here even it was far to short...

[@marshallmatters1526]

Why is it always the greatest, nicest, funniest, and most Talented ones to go first?? John Lennon, Freddy Mercury, Rik Mayall were THE show. Without those people the show didn't exist.

[@kid--presentable]

John Lennon was a tosser

[@Macrogue65]

Beautiful.

[@juliajones699]

He never fails to amaze me! So sad he is no longer with us :'(.

[@flipflop8604]

I watched mr jolly lives next door last night hadn't seen it for years . Rik and aide, friends I've never met.........

[@patilott6863]

Great Rik Mayall, keeping it real

[@Nosh_Feratu]

oh damn, was that Floella Benjamin? I used to watch her through that same window too!

[@naftalievader6408]

Wonderful speech. Thanks for putting it back up!

[@mikejandrews]

Rik was such a wonderful soul.

[@deewhobewatty9003]

There'll never be another like Rik, he was unique ❤️😢

[@Shundi12]

The best speech ever to grace my home city. I love you Rik! RIP.

[@adods9824]

Probably his greatest gift to us, and life an utter utter spazmo I am only just discovering it now. Better late than never, right kids ?! 😂👍😁

[@AI_admin]

I shed a tear, thank you for sharing this special moment.

[@JoanneCamp1]

RIP Rik, a true legend, comedy icon, my hero and idol. I will NEVER forget you. xxxxx

[@raylooney1788]

What a fab comment

[@JoanneCamp1]

shane bradshaw Thank you :-)

[@arcticmonkey4326]

This man is my hero.

[@midianholic7080]

RIP. A true legend from my childhood. Very much missed.

[@davidsanderson5918]

I graduated no less than THREE times from this very University with BA, MMus and PhD and I soooooo wish that Rik Mayall had got the Honorary Doc in any of those years. BIG fan.....and still feel his death as a huge, sad and unfathomable loss!

[@raymiemac71]

One of the world's finest who should not have been taking away from us so early in his life.. Absolutely bloody still missed... RIP DOCTOR RIK MAYALL where ever you R. 🤣🤣🤣🤣.

[@MG-Driver]

What an absolute legend!!! Greatly missed by all, a true showman at his best!!! RIP Rik

[@vt-wn8ul]

Talented.

[@FracturedPixel]

I listened to this on my graduation day in 2018, and I remember it word for word, as opposed to whatever guff they said at my actual graduation.

[@Michael.OJackson]

Whenever im near tothe theatre i ask myself this...

[@Seanyboizzles]

Rik Mayall, I still can't believe he is gone, this speech is unbelievable and his 5 mantras are words to live by, go out there and have a fucking good life! Heck yes! What a heroic man and a true comedy genius RIP Rik.

[@supermanman9520]

an icon, a legend, a giant whose shoulders future comedians should privileged and humbled to stand on, a father, a husband , a genius , a man......rest in peace Doctor Mayall, your memory will live forever

[@tomgayle2849]

Legend who will be missed by many. Thank's Rick..

[@beckybluebird1]

Brilliant I miss him xxxxx