Paul Merton - Travel Personality of the Year
As well as performing as a comedian and hosting or taking part in TV panel and chat shows, Paul has presented many travel documentaries over the years in his signature grumpy style.
Between 2007 and 2010, Paul presented a series of travel documentaries on Channel Five, beginning with Paul Merton in China, then Paul Merton in India, and finally, Paul Merton in Europe.
To mark Hollywood’s 100th anniversary in 2010, Paul visited America for a BBC Two documentary Birth of Hollywood. The series explored the rise of the American film-making industry, taking a look at influential and controversial directors that have made cinema the world's most popular entertainment.
In his latest travel documentary, Paul Merton's Adventures, the comedian follows the well-worn tourist trail searching for the extraordinary. Highlights include climbing aboard the biggest cruise ship in the world; a trip to Ibiza to join an animal-themed party; a stay in Florida where he meets a family of rollercoaster fanatics; then a visit to Alpine spa retreats and finally, the Highlands of Scotland.
This year, Paul has returned to stand-up comedy with a UK solo tour - Out Of My Head.
Background
Paul Merton launched his career in stand-up at London’s Comedy Store in 1982. It was in the 90's when Paul grabbed the public's attention as a team captain on Have I Got News for You. Two decades later, this comedy quiz show is still going strong on BBC One. From 1999 to 2007 Paul hosted Room 101 - a show in which celebrities revealed their pet hates.
Awards
1992: Top TV Comedy Personality
1998: BAFTA for Best Light Entertainment Performance
1999: Best Comedy Entertainment Personality - British Comedy Award
2003: Best Entertainment Performance on Have I Got News For You - BAFTA TV Award
2004: Broadcasting Press Guild for Best Performer on Have I Got News For You.
Books
Paul Merton has contributed to a number of books as well as writing his own. Paul’s collection of books include:
My Struggle
Silent Comedy
Paul Merton’s History of the Twentieth Century
Have I Got News For You
Have I Got News For You: Guide to Modern Britain