Glee Club: Comedian Junior Simpson's highlights of 2009
Dec 24 2009 by Adrian Caffery, Birmingham Mail
A FAMILIAR face from TV, thanks to such shows as They Think It’s All Over, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, and even Top Gear, Junior Simpson’s an accomplished raconteur who finds his humour in the everyday and humdrum.
Prior to returning to Birmingham’s Glee Club for its traditional New Year’s Eve Party, we asked him to look back over the past 12 months, and take a peek into 2010.
What do you think the big news story of 2009 was and why?
With Afghanistan, climate change and MPs’ expenses dominating the front pages throughout the year, the biggest story for me was Alfie Patten, the 13-year-old “dad”.
I loved this story because for two weeks we talked about nothing else. Then, just like a bad episode of the Jeremy Kyle Show (are there ever any good ones?) it turns out the kid wasn’t even his!
Was there a news story you thought should have been more prominent?
Obviously, the focus on Afghanistan has been constant throughout the year. And with fatalities of British troops going over the 100 mark, it’s a reminder of the severity of this war. But I’m very concerned we NEVER hear of the injuries that didn’t end the soldier’s life. These wounded brave men and women seem to be forgotten about. Sad.
Who was your celebrity of the year?
My “celebrity” for 2009 was Barack Obama. Having won the US elections last November, he’s never been out of the news, charming his way into the hearts and minds of many people around the world. Plus it seems this man never sleeps. Nations all over the world now look at the American President and say “Aww... can we have one?”
Funniest thing about 2009?
I think the funniest thing about 2009 has been the revelations over what MPs try to claim for on their expenses. From duck ponds to sex movies, the list is endless. Not even my accountants could get that stuff passed, and believe me, they’re the best.
Looking ahead to the new year, any predictions?
In 2010, I feel we’ll be subjected to even more Strictly Come X Factor Big Brother Coming To Dine With Me. Actually, I quite like Come Dine With Me. I think next year will see even more nobodies becoming minor somebodies for a couple of months before returning to the village of total anonymity, but with a slightly bigger TV.
What do you reckon will be the funniest thing about 2010?
I think the funniest thing will definitely be Gordon Brown trying to hold on to his job. I personally can’t see a natural leader amongst any of the party leaders. Do you think the US will lend us theirs?
