Here’s a bold statement: Steve Coogan is far more problematic than his beloved character, Alan Partridge. But why? Isn’t Partridge the epitome of awkwardness and ignorance? And this is the part most people miss: while Partridge is a harmless, lovable buffoon, Coogan often comes across as self-righteous and out of touch. Let’s dive in.
Last year, while compiling my list for Middle Class Holes—a Substack series turned book (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Middle-Class-Holes-Semi-Posh-Britain/dp/B0G492X88W)—I grappled with classifying certain individuals. Where does someone like Coogan fit? Initially, I pegged him as working class, saving him for a follow-up series. But a reader pointed out his father’s role as an IBM engineer and Coogan’s own description of his background as lower middle class. This gray area led me to include him, bumping Armando Iannucci, a more obvious middle-class figure but far less intriguing.
Coogan’s genius as an impressionist is undeniable, yet only one character truly soared: Alan Partridge, the cringe-worthy sports presenter. Partridge, with his awkward charm and surreal digressions, has entertained millions. Think of Richard Madeley’s bizarre interviews, and you’ll see Partridge’s influence. But here’s the twist: while Partridge satirizes the past, Coogan seems stuck in it.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Coogan’s public persona often overshadows his comedic brilliance. His political commentary, from anti-Brexit rallies to his disdain for the British flag, feels like a relic of the 1990s. Britain has transformed, yet Coogan’s discourse remains stuck in a bygone era. He hops between Labour, Lib Dems, and Greens, yet his critiques lack depth. His support for Jeremy Corbyn and his belated condemnation of Hamas’s atrocities reveal a man out of step with reality.
Partridge, on the other hand, is a timeless satire of the 1990s. His awkwardness and cluelessness are endearing, a reflection of a simpler time. Coogan, however, seems to believe his opinions carry weight, declaring himself ‘honour bound’ to influence elections. This delusion of grandeur makes Partridge look like a sage in comparison.
And this is the part most people miss: Coogan’s attempts at provocation are as predictable as a wasp at a picnic. His recent comments about Partridge being a Brexiteer feel forced, a misreading of his own creation. Partridge would likely tell Coogan to ‘stop being provocative and just be funny.’
So, is Coogan worse than Partridge? Absolutely. While Partridge is a lovable fool, Coogan’s self-importance and outdated views make him far more grating. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a comedian’s public persona ever overshadow their art? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Gareth Roberts is a screenwriter, author, and novelist, best known for his work on Doctor Who. The above is an edited extract from Gareth’s new book, Middle Class Holes: A Guide to the Worst Semi-Posh People in Britain Today (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Middle-Class-Holes-Semi-Posh-Britain/dp/B0G492X88W).
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