24 - "Meltdown" with Bethany Black

Top comedian, writer and actor Bethany Black was the first kid in her school to get into Red Dwarf. She spread the word and soon everyone was into it. So, you can expect a lifetime of wisdom and enthusiasm! 

We have an interesting chat about how the show relates to the Alternative Comedy movement and other sitcoms of the time. Bethany reveals how her favourite characters influenced the way she lived and dressed as a kid (spoiler: not Rimmer). And her recasting idea opens the door to a deep insight into the characters…and what they reveal about different aspects of human nature. 

Series 4 episode 6, Meltdown, was one of Bethany’s favourites back in the day. What does she think about it now? It’s so much fun! We discuss Risk and how it affects the psyche. Rimmer’s military madness. How well the cultural references and jokes have aged. And how much joy the lookalikes bring to the character mix. Plus: what’s up with those dino-bird-monsters?!

SO WHAT IS IT?

Better Than Life is the pod where comedians talk Red Dwarf, the greatest sci-fi sitcom, one episode at a time. With a fresh guest every ep, we’re your perfect podcast companion for a first watch or a rewatch. Be warned: spoilers! 

Hosted by Fergus (huge fan) and John (lapsed fan). 

Production, artwork and insights by Alex Watson. 

FANCY SOME LINKS?

Find Bethany Black on Tik Tok or Bluesky. 

Check out Bethany’s tour dates and more at https://www.bethanyblack.co.uk/

Grab Bethany’s filmed shows from Go Faster Stripe. 

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Have a word on our socials: 

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EMAIL US

We’d love to ask your questions on the pod – and to hear your feedback. Drop us a line: [e-mail] 

ENJOY OUR THEME TUNE?

There’s more where that came from: https://holygoats.bandcamp.com/ 

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