# Ricky Gervais

> British comedian

**Wikidata**: [Q23517](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q23517)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ricky_Gervais)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ricky-gervais

## Summary
Ricky Gervais is a British comedian, actor, writer, and musician known for his work in stand-up comedy, television, and film. He is best recognized for creating and starring in the critically acclaimed sitcom *The Office*, which has had a significant cultural impact. Gervais is also a prolific writer and producer, contributing to various comedy projects and voice acting roles.

## Biography
- Born: June 25, 1961, in Reading, England
- Nationality: British
- Education: Attended University College London and the University of London
- Known for: Creating and starring in *The Office*, pioneering British sitcoms, and voice acting in animated projects
- Employer(s): University College London, University of London
- Field(s): Comedy, acting, writing, music

## Contributions
Ricky Gervais has contributed to the comedy industry through his work on *The Office*, *Extras*, and *Derek*, which have been influential in British television. He has also written and produced other comedy projects, including *The Ricky Gervais Show* and *After Life*. Additionally, he has lent his voice to various animated films and series, showcasing his versatility as a performer.

## FAQs
**What is Ricky Gervais known for?**
Ricky Gervais is known for his work in comedy, including creating and starring in *The Office*, a British sitcom that became a cultural phenomenon. He is also recognized for his writing, producing, and voice acting in various projects.

**Where did Ricky Gervais study?**
Ricky Gervais attended University College London and the University of London, where he pursued his education.

**What awards has Ricky Gervais received?**
Ricky Gervais has received awards such as the Writers Guild of America Award, the Primetime Emmy Award, and the Richard Dawkins Award for his contributions to comedy and entertainment.

**Has Ricky Gervais worked in music?**
Yes, Ricky Gervais has worked in music as a musician, contributing to various projects and performances.

## Why They Matter
Ricky Gervais has significantly influenced the comedy industry through his work on *The Office*, which redefined British sitcoms and gained international acclaim. His contributions to writing, producing, and voice acting have also left a lasting impact on television and film. Gervais's ability to blend humor with social commentary has made him a respected figure in entertainment.

## Notable For
- Creator and star of *The Office*, a groundbreaking British sitcom
- Writer and producer of *Extras* and *Derek*, other influential comedy projects
- Voice actor in animated films and series, showcasing his versatility
- Recipient of prestigious awards, including the Primetime Emmy Award
- Affiliation with prestigious institutions like University College London

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Ricky Gervais was born on June 25, 1961, in Reading, England. He attended University College London and the University of London, where he pursued his education. His early experiences in comedy and acting laid the foundation for his successful career.

### Career Beginnings
Gervais began his career in comedy, performing stand-up and writing for various television shows. His early work included appearances on *The Ricky Gervais Show*, a comedy audio show in the UK, which helped establish his reputation as a talented comedian and writer.

### Breakthrough with *The Office*
In 2001, Gervais created and starred in *The Office*, a British sitcom that became a global phenomenon. The show's unique blend of humor and social commentary resonated with audiences, leading to multiple seasons and a dedicated fanbase. Gervais's portrayal of the character David Brent became iconic, cementing his status as a leading figure in British comedy.

### Writing and Producing
Beyond acting, Gervais has been a prolific writer and producer. He has contributed to projects like *Extras*, a British sitcom that further showcased his comedic talent, and *Derek*, a television comedy-drama created by him. His writing has been recognized with awards, including the Writers Guild of America Award.

### Voice Acting and Music
Gervais has also lent his voice to various animated films and series, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. Additionally, he has worked in music as a musician, contributing to projects that highlight his artistic range.

### Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Gervais has received numerous awards and recognitions. He has won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, the Richard Dawkins Award for his contributions to atheism, and other prestigious accolades that highlight his impact on entertainment.

### Legacy and Influence
Ricky Gervais's work has left a lasting legacy in the comedy industry. His ability to blend humor with social commentary has influenced generations of comedians and writers. The success of *The Office* and other projects has solidified his reputation as a pioneer in British television, and his contributions continue to shape the landscape of comedy today.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. datos.bne.es
4. [Source](https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-SEB-56643)
5. International Standard Name Identifier
6. Open Library
7. MusicBrainz
8. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
9. Discogs
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. [Source](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1129313/The-jokes-Ricky-Gervais-reveals-father-drunk-filled-birth-certificate.html)
12. CONOR.SI
13. [The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. 2022](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZvzqXReRT8&t=231s)
14. BBC Things
15. [Source](http://www.rickygervais.com)
16. The Movie Database
17. [Ricky Gervais (11 Character Images) - Behind The Voice Actors](https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Ricky-Gervais/)
18. DACS register
19. [Source](http://www.rickygervais.com/)
20. Virtual Study of Theatre Institute
21. YouTube API
22. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
23. [Source](https://www.podchaser.com/creators/ricky-gervais-107ZzkEKWK/appearances)
24. performing-arts.ch