Podcast Summary: Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster – Episode 269: Robert Popper
Release Date: October 30, 2024
In Episode 269 of Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster, the dynamic comedy duo welcome Robert Popper, a celebrated British comedian and author, to their unique “Dream Restaurant.” This long-form summary delves into the rich conversations, insightful anecdotes, and humorous exchanges that unfolded throughout the episode.
Introduction: Welcoming Robert Popper
Timestamp: [02:47] – [05:14]
Ed Gamble and James Acaster enthusiastically introduce Robert Popper, highlighting his impressive body of work. They express their admiration for his shows like "Look Around You", "Time Waster Letters", and especially his renowned series "Ran for a Very Long Time". Ed remarks, “I first became a fan of Robert's when I watched Look Around You” ([03:22]).
James further lauds Popper as a “national treasure,” emphasizing his significant contributions to British comedy. The hosts also touch upon Robert’s latest project, "The Elsie Drake Letters, aged 104," setting the stage for a deep dive into his creative process.
The Elsie Drake Letters: A Deep Dive
Timestamp: [13:53] – [19:18]
Robert Popper elaborates on his new book, "The Elsie Drake Letters, aged 104," explaining how it evolves from his earlier work, "The Time Waster Letters." He describes how he created the character Elsie Drake, a 104-year-old woman navigating the digital age with her newly acquired computer. Robert shares, “Elsie Drake is age 104. L.C. Drake is an alter ego of Robert's” ([04:03]).
He recounts the challenges and humorous situations that arose from writing hundreds of letters to various public figures, often leaving a £5 note to elicit responses driven by guilt. One notable anecdote involves writing to then-Prime Minister Theresa May, leading to visits from the police and social services. Robert humorously notes, “I wrote to Theresa May… and then we had another visit from the police” ([16:43]).
Ed and James express their fascination with Robert’s dedication, with Ed mentioning missed opportunities to contribute quotes for the book, adding to the light-hearted banter.
Crafting the Dream Meal: Preferences and Quirks
Timestamp: [20:00] – [29:59]
Transitioning to the heart of the episode, Robert begins outlining his dream meal, a central theme of the show. He emphasizes his selective palate, admitting, “I don’t like most food” ([24:53]). This revelation leads to a comprehensive discussion about his dislikes, which include seafood, nuts, olives, mayonnaise, and more. Robert provides a meticulous list, stating, “All seafood, olives, nuts… they’re fine, but if they break away from a cake, I won’t eat the ones that are on their own” ([69:37]).
The hosts playfully challenge his dislikes, with James asking, “Have you ever had a steak that has a crust on it, like with flour?” ([45:01]). Robert describes fond memories of his grandmother’s cooking, reminiscing about “square steaks with paprika” and his reluctance to eat certain foods in a restaurant setting to avoid appearing vulnerable.
Ed and James navigate through Robert’s unique preferences, discussing items like his preferred bowl of raw carrots as a side dish and his aversion to starters, which he finds unnecessary and revealing. Robert humorously notes, “I just don’t want to have soup in a restaurant… I feel like it ages you 30 years” ([32:53]).
Personal Anecdotes: Memories and Mischief
Timestamp: [30:00] – [55:00]
Robert shares a series of nostalgic and amusing stories from his childhood, particularly revolving around his grandmother. He recounts mischievous acts like putting hair in his father’s glass of water and his grandmother’s strict rules about using the family’s soda stream. “We used to pull bits of our hair out and put them in my dad’s glass of water” ([24:26]).
Another memorable tale involves Robert and his brother Johnny inventing playful drink names like "seam hour" and "La Ross", reflecting their youthful creativity and humor. These stories not only highlight Robert’s comedic nature but also his deep-seated memories that influence his work.
The conversation takes a humorous turn as Robert describes a chaotic episode of dropping carrot pieces into his car’s footwell, emphasizing his practicality and the everyday challenges of being a picky eater. “I had a bag of carrots and they’re just all over the pedals. Slippery” ([55:04]).
The Dislike List: Comprehensive and Candid
Timestamp: [69:37] – [71:27]
Robert presents a detailed list of foods he dislikes, spanning various categories and showcasing his candid nature. Items on his list include:
- Seafood: “Fish, anything in the sea.”
- Nuts: “I don’t like nuts.”
- Condiments: “Mayonnaise, mustard.”
- Vegetables: “Asparagus, cabbage, beetroot.”
- Fruits and Sweets: “Apricots, raisins, white chocolate.”
- Other Foods: “Liver, lychees, pesto, garlic bread, donuts.”
He humorously adds, “Donuts taste greasy… raw jam” ([70:21]).
Ed and James react with amusement and surprise at some of the entries, creating a lively and engaging discussion about culinary preferences and aversions. This segment not only provides insight into Robert’s character but also resonates with listeners who may share similar dislikes.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts and Farewells
Timestamp: [71:27] – [End]
As the episode wraps up, Ed and James reflect on the engaging conversation with Robert Popper. They express their appreciation for his openness and humor, concluding with light-hearted remarks and final greetings. Robert pokes fun at the Dream Restaurant concept, ensuring to mention that he did not choose the dreaded “pot of pickled peppers,” which was a playful nod to the show’s humorous premise.
A notable conclusion from Robert: “I think that sounds good. Yeah, I like that. Yeah. Yeah, it also sounds terrible” ([72:25]).
The hosts encourage listeners to check out Robert’s book, "The Elsie Drake Letters, aged 104," and tease future episodes with their trademark wit and camaraderie.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Robert Popper: “I'm gonna have a bowl of cereal. With 50 corn flakes. 50 Rice Krispies” ([34:04]).
- James Acaster: “You always feel like you're riding a wave of words” ([76:31]).
- Robert Popper: “All seafood, olives, nuts… they’re fine, but if they break away from a cake, I won’t eat the ones that are on their own” ([69:37]).
- Robert Popper: “Donuts taste greasy… raw jam” ([70:21]).
Final Thoughts
Episode 269 of Off Menu offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of Robert Popper, blending humor, personal anecdotes, and candid discussions about food preferences. Listeners gain an appreciation for Robert’s unique comedic style and the creative processes behind his acclaimed works. The episode successfully captures the essence of the Dream Restaurant, making it a memorable addition to the series.