Ricky Gervais Biography

Prior to his success with "The Office," Ricky was a regular contributor to "The Eleven O'Clock Show," which featurd his self-penned wisdom. Ricky then went on to host his own six-part chat show for Channel 4. Along with Stephen Merchant he also hosted a now legendary radio show on London's XFM, and the program received a Bronze Sony Award. In 2002, Ricky did his first live stand-up show, "Animals," at the Soho Theatre and followed this with a sold-out run at the Bloomsbury Theatre in 2003. He followed this in 2004 with another sold-out tour, "Politics," which ended with a week-long run at the Palace Theatre.

"Extras," written by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, and featuring guest stars including Samuel L. Jackson, Kate Winslett, Patrick Stewart and Ben Stiller, was nominated for three Emmy Awards. Ricky also appeared in Christopher Guest's film "For Your Consideration," " Ghost Town" and "The Invention of Lying," while his guest spot on "The Simpsons" received rave reviews. His series, "Ricky Gervais Meets...," in which he interviews comedy legends such as Larry David and Christopher Guest, continues on Channel 4.

Ricky has won many awards, including BAFTAs for "Best Comedy Performance" and "Best Situation Comedy" for three years running, and in 2004 he won two Golden Globes for "The Office."