TV Guide: The Best of The Russell Gilbert Show on Seven and 7plus

Over the 30-year run of Hey Hey It’s Saturday, there were many spinoff programs, including The Russell Gilbert Show.

Across the next two Wednesdays on Channel Seven and 7plus, The Best of The Russell Gilbert Show celebrates Russell Gilbert, who became an Aussie icon in the 1980s and 1990s through his mastery of sketch and physical comedy in everyday situations.

In Part 1, introduced by Daryl Somers, Russell delivers some unfortunate news to some children at a party in the park about the fate of their circus clown; has a crack as a music producer on a John Farnham album with mixed results; and gives Mike Myers a crash course on the art of Aussie lifesaving. And, have you ever wondered what we did before elastic was invented?

In Part 2, introduced by Mick Molloy, Russell saves the life of an iconic amusement park character who then proceeds to stalk him; we find out if a cuddling cop gets his man; and run into some very climate-friendly hoons. Plus, have you ever wondered where clichés come from?

Daryl Somers said: “Russell Gilbert should be recognised as one of the greats of Australian comedy. He lit up the scene from ’86 onwards through his first appearance on Hey Hey, then as a regular on The Comedy Company and back to Hey Hey for over a decade as a vital part of the ensemble.

“These two specials highlight the breadth of his talents, such that 25 years on they are still ‘laugh out loud’ funny. It’s just so sad that health problems shortened his career.”

The show will feature cameos from Glenn Robbins, Marty Sheargold, Bob Franklin, Dave O’Neil, The Amazing Johnathan, James Reyne and more.

The Best of The Russell Gilbert Show premiere times:

Part 1 premieres 7.30pm Wednesday, 8 March on Channel Seven and 7plus
Part 2 premieres 7.30pm Wednesday, 15 March on Channel Seven and 7plus