Bob Mortimer has shared the heartfelt reason behind the enduring popularity of the BBC Two show Gone Fishing, expressing a wish that it inspires viewers to spend more quality time with friends.
The 67-year-old comedian made the comments during a previously recorded interview aired on Saturday Kitchen Best Bites, a spin-off of Saturday Kitchen Live that showcases memorable moments and past interviews. In the segment, host Matt Tebbutt, 52, quizzed Mortimer about Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
Why the show resonates
The programme follows comedians and lifelong friends Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse as they travel across the UK on fishing trips, sharing candid and often touching reflections on life. Mortimer explained the unscripted nature of the show is key to its appeal.
"We're on the riverbank for eight hours, Matt. So, you know, we just talk most of the time when we're not fishing. Then they try and find 30 seconds here or a minute there that's worth putting on the telly, you know," he said.
"I don't think the show would work if it was scripted, because it is... I think a lot of people watch it. Certainly a lot of fellas watch it and think, 'Oh, that's me and my mate. That's what we're like.'"
A healthy way to connect
Mortimer made a heartfelt admission about his aspirations for the programme, hoping it encourages people of all ages to take time out with friends.
"I hope it does encourage people to do that, you know, whatever their age," he said. "To take out eight hours with a friend. You know, fellas tend to get together around a sporting event or something that they're doing together or have an hour in a pub."
"But to actually go and spend a good chunk of time with a friend, it's a very healthy thing to do, I reckon."
Saturday Kitchen Best Bites is available to watch on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
