Rob Deering: The Facts

Note: This review is from 2002

Review by Steve Bennett

Rob Deering would make an excellent gameshow host. He exudes a cheeky showbiz charm, is instantly likeable and effortlessly puts audiences at their ease.

He's also a bit of a quiz show veteran, having been a contestant on both 15-to-1 and an egg-themed kids' programme called Crack It. We know this because he's got the embarrassing clips to prove it.

In this cheerful show, such self-deprecating autobiographical snapshots alternate with more straightforward stand-up routines which the audience selects from an on-screen menu. It's all very well put-together and a fine way to give a bit of texture to what is essentially an extended set.

His material is warm, witty and original, emanating as it usually does from some obscure piece of trivia - the very facts of the title.

It's also a slightly old-fashioned show, where niceness triumphs over cynicism, and there's nothing here to scare the horses - or the moral guardians - giving Deering almost universal appeal.

But it is neatly and cleverly done and contains some impressive ideas - as well as some downright stupid ones.

Deering's also an accomplished musician, and while he does use a couple of tried and tested tricks of the musical comedian, such as one song in the style of another, he avoids the usual trap of prolonging things, instead stopping dead when the gag has been made.

It all helps the show breeze along nicely. As does Deering's approachable and chatty stage manner and refusal to take himself at all seriously.

Remember. You can't say 'endearing' without the 'Deering'.

Review date: 1 Jan 2002
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett

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