A clip featuring Bob Mortimer performing a low-budget 'magic show' on 'Last One Laughing UK' amassed over 2 million views on Instagram alone.
The absurd performance, involving a levitating tea towel, an egg cracked into a handbag, and a surprise toy chick, severely tested the composure of fellow contestants like Daisy May Cooper and Richard Ayoade.
Fans reacted enthusiastically online, dubbing the 65-year-old comedian a "national treasure".
Why this matters:: This viral moment underscores the enduring appeal of Mortimer's surreal and understated comedy style, proving that simple, unexpected humour remains incredibly effective, especially within the high-pressure format of the show.
'Last One Laughing UK', hosted by Jimmy Carr and Roisin Conaty, challenges ten comedians to spend six hours together without laughing. Anyone who breaks faces elimination. Mortimer, known for his work on 'Shooting Stars' and 'Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing', has quickly become a standout participant since the first episodes were released.
His now-famous magic act, soundtracked by Queen's "A Kinda Magic", involved him seemingly levitating a tea towel using a hidden shoe and coat hanger, nonchalantly cracking an egg into a handbag, only for a toy chick to emerge moments later. All the while, Mortimer maintained his deadpan delivery, occasionally whispering "It's magic." The sheer absurdity sent hosts Carr and Conaty into hysterics in the observation room, while contestants visibly struggled to maintain straight faces.
The clip's rapid spread across social media highlights the UK public's affection for Mortimer's brand of comedy. This particular show format originated in Japan as 'Documental' and has seen successful adaptations globally, demonstrating the universal appeal of watching comedians try desperately *not* to laugh.
What is 'Last One Laughing UK'?
It's a competitive comedy show on Prime Video where ten comedians are locked in a room for six hours, trying to make each other laugh while avoiding laughing themselves.
Who stars in 'Last One Laughing UK'?
The cast includes Bob Mortimer, Daisy May Cooper, Joe Lycett, Judi Love, Rob Beckett, Sara Pascoe, Lou Sanders, Joe Wilkinson, Harriet Kemsley, and Richard Ayoade. It's hosted by Jimmy Carr and Roisin Conaty.
Why did Bob Mortimer's clip go viral?
His hilariously absurd and poorly executed 'magic show' struck a chord with viewers and fellow comedians for its unique silliness, leading to millions of views and shares online.
Discover (or rediscover) the unique comedic talents of Bob Mortimer.
Consider watching 'Last One Laughing UK' on Prime Video for more comedian interactions and laugh-out-loud moments.
Sometimes the most unexpected and low-tech humour can be the most entertaining.
What's your favorite Bob Mortimer moment, from this show or elsewhere? Let us know your thoughts!
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