Mysterious Goings On

In this captivating episode, Alex sits down with the legendary Richard Sparks, a mastermind in comedy writing and entertainment, whose collaborations span icons like Placido Domingo, Rowan Atkinson, and John Cleese of Monty Python fame. Sparks delves into his latest foray into fantasy fiction with "New Rock, New Role," a novel drawing from his passion for online gaming and depicting a retired teacher's adventurous quest for self-discovery in the digital gaming world. Reflecting on a storied career that catalyzed Rowan Atkinson’s rise with the unforgettable schoolmaster sketch, Sparks echoes Chekhov in celebrating the unique synergy between writer and actor. He reminisces about the golden age of British comedy, his camaraderie with Douglas Adams, and the undying quest for originality in storytelling. Sharing his journey from poker to online role-playing games, Sparks reveals how gaming conventions and player interactions enrich his narratives, underscoring his fulfillment in the fantasy genre.