Rik Mayall Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Rik Mayall (1958-2014) was a beloved English comedian, actor, and writer known for his energetic, anarchic, and often outrageous performances. Born in Harlow, Essex, Mayall rose to prominence in the early 1980s as part of the influential alternative comedy scene in London.

Mayall’s breakout role came in the groundbreaking BBC sitcom “The Young Ones” (1982-1984), where he portrayed the obnoxious, poetry-writing anarchist Rick. The show’s surreal humor and slapstick violence revolutionized British comedy. Mayall went on to co-create and star in other iconic series, such as “Blackadder,” “Bottom,” and “The New Statesman,” cementing his status as a comedy legend.

Throughout his career, Mayall’s manic energy, quick wit, and fearless approach to comedy endeared him to audiences. His untimely death in 2014 at the age of 56 shocked and saddened fans worldwide. This blue plaque, located at Hammersmith Broadway in London, commemorates a humorous moment shared between Mayall and a friend, capturing the spirit of his irreverent humor. The borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, where the plaque is situated, is a vibrant area of West London known for its arts and entertainment scene, making it a fitting location to honor the memory of this comedy great.