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February 2, 2026
‘We put a stink bomb in Stephen Fry’s shoe’: Vic and Bob on the inspired idiocy of Shooting Stars
‘Christians complained about the stuffed buzzard wearing a crucifix round its neck. Birds can’t be Christians, they said. It’s the most complaints we ever got’
TL;DR
- Shooting Stars originated from 'The Big Quiz' segment during Vic Reeves' 'Big Night Out' live show.
- The BBC saw potential in 'The Big Quiz' and commissioned it as a show, leading to Shooting Stars.
- Writing the true or false questions was an intense but enjoyable process for Mortimer and Moir.
- Matt Lucas, as George Dawes, had freedom in his costume and ad-libbed lines, surprising Mortimer and Moir during filming.
- Team captains Mark Lamarr (deadpan) and Ulrika Jonsson (competitive) brought distinct energies to the show.
- Guests, including Larry Hagman, often seemed unsure of the show's chaotic nature but generally reported positive experiences.
- Memorable challenges included dropping cheeses on guests, faking a monkey encounter, and the 'Dove from Above' round.
- The show is credited with altering the parameters for fun and imagination on panel shows.
- Filming was often done without scripts, even from the crew, to maintain spontaneity.
- Moir placed a stink bomb in Stephen Fry's shoe and used a stuffed buzzard with a crucifix, resulting in complaints.
- The name George Dawes was a nod to Little Britain's Marjorie Dawes.
- Robin Gibb only appeared if his new single was promoted during the show.
- Moir and Mortimer created catchphrases and actions like 'rubbing my knees' and 'raising handbags' that became iconic.
- Mortimer sometimes made prizes himself, resisting the art department's attempts to improve them.
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