Ben Elton: British Comedian on his return to New Zealand with the Authentic Stupidity Tour

Ben Elton is a staple of the comedy scene.  He’s known as a pioneer for British comedy and the Godfather of Standup, though it’s his work on Blackadder and The Young Ones that he’s most well known for.  Elton’s been in the industry for four decades, last visiting New Zealand’s shores back in 2021 for his Ben Elton Live Tour.   The comedian is winging his way back this year, bringing his Authentic Stupidity Tour to Kiwi audiences, exploring the emergence of AI and the “idiocy” of the human race.  Elton told Mike Hosking that much of what he performs on stage is unpacking his bewilderment with the changes the new generations bring.  “I don’t really feel much different than how I ever did,” he said.  “We all feel 21 inside, our characters are largely formed by the time we’re in our twenties, and that’s who we remain. Meanwhile, the world passes on.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.