Why Steve Martin hated stand-up

Steve Martin claims stand-up comedy is the worst job in the world.

He says he's delighted to have left the world of live performance behind for his Hollywood career.

Martin spent many years on the road, with his 'wild and crazy guy' persona, playing to crowds of 20,000 or more.

But he said: "I can't think of anything worse than being a stand-up comedian. Travelling around constantly, having people be drunk and talk during the show."

His comments come in the first episode of new Radio 4 series about comedians who made the transition to the movies. Future programmes will focus on Robin Williams, Roseanne Barr and Chris Rock.

Stand Up To Screen, presented by Greg Proops, starts at 10.30am on Saturday January 28.

Published: 12 Jan 2002