In a recent episode of the highly popular talk show, The Jonathan Ross Show, actor and comedian Sacha Baron Cohen sat down for an interview as himself, giving fans a rare glimpse into his true personality. Known for his iconic characters such as Ali G and Borat, Cohen’s ability to embody and portray unique and often outrageous personalities has made him a household name in the world of comedy.
Host Jonathan Ross, who had previously interviewed Cohen in character, expressed his excitement about finally getting the opportunity to speak with him as himself. The interview promised to be an intriguing and entertaining experience for both the host and audience alike.
Cohen, admitting that it felt strange not being in character in front of an audience, acknowledged that he felt a certain level of discomfort when showcasing his true self. However, he also expressed how being his iconic characters, like Borat, required a considerable amount of confidence and boldness.
Ross questioned whether Cohen, as himself, was able to fit in with the Hollywood crowds and feel at ease around other famous individuals. Cohen candidly revealed that socializing in Hollywood had been a disaster for him, citing instances where he felt intimidated and out of place. He shared a humorous anecdote about a party where he encountered Jim Carrey, who mistook a woman for his daughter, leading to an awkward and hilarious situation.
The interview delved into Cohen’s early success with his character Ali G, a faux presenter known for his iconic look and thick accent. Cohen explained that when he first started portraying the character, he was called “The Youthful Ordo” but later came up with the name Ali G. He highlighted how Ali G‘s purpose was to challenge and expose the prejudices of upper-class individuals, often catching them off-guard with his antics.
Cohen also revealed that his infamous character Borat received considerable backlash from Kazakhstan itself. He mentioned hosting the MTV Awards as Borat and pretending to be the country’s Prime Minister, which angered Kazakh officials. They even went as far as launching a campaign to prove that Cohen was not affiliated with their nation, spending millions of dollars to establish their credibility.
The discussion took a more serious turn as Ross and Cohen delved into the risks and dangers associated with Cohen’s brand of comedy. Cohen admitted that there were moments where he felt in actual danger while filming certain scenes. He cited an incident during the filming of Bruno, where he staged a cage match with a group of violent audience members in Arkansas. Despite the risks involved, Cohen remained unapologetic in his pursuit of comedy, blending satire with elements of danger.
The interview concluded with a discussion about Cohen’s new character, Nobby, in the film Grimsby. Cohen shared that the character was originally intended to be a football hooligan but evolved into something different throughout the creative process. Reflecting his dedication to authenticity, Cohen shared his experience visiting local pubs in Grimsby, meeting interesting characters, including a Neil Diamond impersonator.
Overall, the interview provided a fascinating glimpse into the mind and career of Sacha Baron Cohen. His ability to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through comedy is both impressive and thought-provoking. As fans eagerly await his next project, it’s clear that Cohen’s unique brand of entertainment will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Keywords: Sacha Baron Cohen, talk show, The Jonathan Ross Show, Ali G, Borat, comedy, entertainment, Hollywood, interview, character, risks, comedy career, Grimsby.
