Ruby Wax's Absolutely Famous: A Candid Return to Iconic Celebrity Interviews
At Richmond Theatre in London, Ruby Wax and her longtime TV producer Clive Tulloh have taken the stage with Absolutely Famous, a show that delves into the craft and chaos of interviewing some of the most controversial figures of the 1990s and early 2000s. This production combines archive footage with fresh commentary, offering audiences a behind-the-scenes look at Wax's groundbreaking BBC series, When Ruby Wax Met ….
The Premise and Honesty of the Show
In an era where veteran entertainers often rely on nostalgia to captivate audiences, Ruby Wax stands out by being disarmingly upfront about her intentions. Absolutely Famous is not just another career retrospective; it's a thoughtful exploration of fame-hunger and the celebrity experience. Wax openly acknowledges the desire for one more round of applause, making the show feel authentic and relevant to its theme.
Co-hosted with Clive Tulloh, the evening guides viewers through clips from her BBC show, where she interviewed individuals like OJ Simpson, Imelda Marcos, and a then-rising New York businessman, Donald Trump. While the shock of the new may have faded—Wax has previously reflected on these interviews in a BBC retrospective—the footage and her insights ensure a highly entertaining experience.
Highlights from the Interviews
The show features memorable moments that highlight Wax's unique approach to journalism. Audiences witness her discussing sexual positions with Pamela Anderson, being sternly lectured by Madonna, and facing intense encounters with figures like OJ Simpson, who mimed stabbing her with a knife. The palpable tension in interviews with Donald Trump and Bill Cosby, who seethed with disdain for their assertive female interviewer, adds a layer of drama that still resonates today.
Clive Tulloh opens the show by claiming, "There haven't been interviews before or since that were so revealing." While this might be an exaggeration, he and Wax make a compelling case that the circumstances of When Ruby Wax Met … are unlikely to be replicated. Wax's ability to ingratiate herself led to unprecedented access, such as spending four days with Imelda Marcos instead of the allotted half-hour and conducting a 17-hour non-stop interview with OJ Simpson.
The Unique Craft of Ruby Wax
Wax's combination of humour, charm, psychological perspicacity, and chutzpah remains a rarity in the world of celebrity interviews. The show emphasizes how her skills allowed her to navigate high-stakes situations with ease, a feat that seems almost impossible in today's media landscape with tighter budgets and limited access. The second act includes a Q&A session, providing additional details, more clips, and gossip from Wax's life as a prominent figure in entertainment.
Although Absolutely Famous may not reveal groundbreaking new information, it consistently engages audiences with its blend of nostalgia and insight. The production is touring until 7 July, offering fans and newcomers alike a chance to experience Wax's enduring legacy in comedy and journalism.
