Alexei Sayle reflects on a life of activism and comedy
“There can never have been a popular entertainer quite like me,” writes Alexei Sayle in his new book, “and almost certainly there never will be again.” This statement, while bold, underscores a unique career defined by a blend of comedy and activism, reports BritPanorama.
Sayle’s prominence in the late 1980s is often overlooked. His presence was ubiquitous: on television with his BBC show Alexei Sayle’s Stuff; in films like Gorky Park and 8; on stage at the Old Vic in The Tempest, directed by Jonathan Miller; and even in the music charts with his No 1 hit single “‘Ullo John! Gotta New Motor?”
His latest book, How I’ve Tried to Change the World: By Walking Down the Middle of the Street Shouting, is not a conventional memoir. Instead, it chronicles Sayle’s life through nine political marches he has participated in, beginning in 1959 and concluding in 2025. Originally intended to be titled Blair Boiled My Cat, he opted for a narrative focused on activism interwoven with personal ambitions.
Sayle recounts how he was introduced to political marches by his parents, both local communist party members. While most of the marches he attends are left-leaning, he acknowledges that many have not led to substantial change, such as the unsuccessful effort to prevent the Iraq War. He offers a nuanced view: “They’re both completely pointless and completely essential,” he says, emphasizing the dual nature of public opinion.
Originally from Liverpool, Sayle moved to London in 1971 to study at Chelsea College of Art. After a series of jobs, including a stint as a civil servant and a small-time drug dealer, he became the first compere at Soho’s Comedy Store in spring 1979, paving the way for what would later be known as “alternative comedy.” His style, marked by a distinctive stage persona and rapid-fire delivery, resonated with audiences seeking representation in comedy.
Throughout his career, Sayle interacted with various prominent figures, such as Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson, during his time at the Comedy Store. Yet, he often felt somewhat isolated, desiring attention while also seeking autonomy: “I wanted it to be all about me,” he admits, reflecting a complex relationship with collaboration.
One notable absence in Sayle’s reflections is his relationship with fellow comedian Ben Elton, who recently expressed his feelings about Sayle’s past criticisms in his own memoir. Sayle acknowledges the conflict, admitting, “I was certainly horrible to him and would say shitty things about him in interviews.” Despite a past reconciliation, he questions Elton’s revisiting of old grievances, noting the disparity in their current successes.
Sayle’s commitment to his political principles remains steadfast, even if it has at times complicated his career decisions. He declined participation in Comic Relief, viewing it as a superficial fix for deeper socio-economic issues, yet he once auditioned for a role in a The Golden Girls spin-off. The memory of tap dancing for icons like Betty White brings some levity to his narrative, though he recalls the experience as unremarkable: “They were so f**king unpleasant about my tap dancing.”
As comedy trends evolved in the 90s, influenced by emerging stars like David Baddiel and Frank Skinner, Sayle found himself sidelined. “I was so out of fashion and it was all about Skinner and Baddiel,” he reflects on the shifting landscape of comedy that rendered his style less popular.
In response to changing times, Sayle pivoted towards writing and podcasting, embracing new platforms to share his insights. He has found unexpected success on TikTok, where videos that blend dance and commentary on communism garnered millions of views, showcasing his ability to adapt while maintaining his core messages.
At 74, Sayle expresses a newfound contentment, describing a decrease in ambition akin to being “unshackled from a madman.” Nonetheless, his dedication to activism persists. “You can’t be complacent when it’s a neck-and-neck race between fascism and a better world,” he asserts, underscoring his belief in the ongoing need for social change.
For Alexei Sayle, the fight and the march continues.
‘How I’ve Tried to Change the World: By Walking Down the Middle of the Street Shouting’ is published on 3 September by W&N, £16.99
