Learn English with Ricky Gervais

Released on August 6th 2012, Learn English with Ricky Gervais was downloaded over 1 million times in the first 24 hours, catapulting it to number one on the iTunes podcast list. Although there has only been one version of the podcast, Ricky has intimated that there will be more after 50 million views of the original. This podcast is unique as Stephen Merchant is notably absent and it also takes the form of a vodcast, a video podcast.

Format

Although released as a podcast, Learn English with Ricky Gervais is actually a vodcast. As Ricky and Karl speak, sat opposite one another, subtitles appear translating what they are saying into Welsh. Both Karl's and Ricky's manner of speaking in this podcast is laboured and slow with both making an effort to fully enunciate, similar to some foreign language teaching tapes. The filming location is generally believed to be Ricky's house with the decor resembling that of an 18th century drawing room.

Track Listing

A New Landmark In Human Comprehension "0:00:00"

The vodcast opens with some orchestral music and layered shots of some famous written works with the words A New Landmark In Human Comprehension emblazoned over the top. Ricky opens with a well enunciated introduction to the podcast and a saccharine smile baring his famous fangs. Upon his introduction Karl nods and gives his trademark Alright? greeting.