Simon Donald: Co-Founder of Viz Talks Legacy, Stand-Up, and the Power of Swearing
All My Clothes Need Burning (formerly Television Times) · Steve Otis Gunn
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Show Notes
Simon Donald: Co-Founder of Viz Talks Legacy, Stand-Up, and the Power of Swearing
🎧 Episode Overview
In this candid conversation, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with Simon Donald, co-founder of the iconic British comic magazine Viz to delve into his journey from creating the satirical publication to his current stand-up comedy career. Topics include:
- Origins of Viz: The inception of Viz in a Newcastle bedroom in 1979 with his brother Chris.
- Iconic Characters: The creation of characters like Sid the Sexist and the development of Roger's Profanasaurus.
- Television Adaptations: Insights into the Fat Slags movie and the challenges of adapting Viz characters for the screen.
- Cultural Commentary: Discussions on the evolution of swear words in the English language and their societal implications.
- Personal Reflections: Simon's move to North London and his experiences in the comedy scene.
This episode offers humour, insight, and personal anecdotes from Simon's career as a cartoonist and comedian.
🖋️ About Simon Donald
Simon Donald is a British comedian and the co-founder of Viz, a satirical comic magazine that gained immense popularity in the late 20th century. Born in 1964 in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Simon and his brother Chris launched Viz in 1979. Simon's creations, including Sid the Sexist, became central to the magazine's success. After leaving Viz in 2003, Simon transitioned to stand-up comedy, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe and various comedy clubs. He continues to entertain audiences with his unique blend of observational and satirical humor.
🔗 Connect with Simon Donald
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This podcast is now called All My Clothes Need Burning. We’ve leaned into the chaos.
Host: Steve Otis Gunn
Guest: Simon Donald – Co-Founder of Viz Magazine & Stand-Up Comedian
Duration: 58 minutes
Release Date: January 23, 2025
Season: 3, Episode 24
All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis Gunn
Please buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online
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