Gina Riley says Kath & Kim ‘had a difficult birth’ as women were told they weren’t funny back when the female-led comedy show first aired – before proving the critics wrong
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Gina Riley rose to fame on the hugely successful sitcom series Kath & Kim in the early 2000s – and now the hit show will make an epic return to screens this year.
But despite the female-led comedy becoming a beloved household name, the actress, 61, said women were often told they weren’t funny when the series began.
Speaking with Herald Sun on Saturday, she said ‘the show had a difficult birth’ because of the attitude towards female comedians.
Gina Riley, 61, rose to fame on the hugely successful sitcom series Kath & Kim in the early 2000s and now the hit show will make an epic return to screens this year. Pictured on the show in the early 2000s
‘At the time the show had a difficult birth with people not being used to women talking whatever was on their minds, and the world has changed so much in 20 years in that women can do comedy,’ Gina, who played Kim Craig (née Day), said.
‘There was always an argument that women aren’t funny back in the day. [The special reboot] has been so much fun and so lovely to properly say goodbye.
‘We just pinch ourselves that there’s a new generation who still respond to it. I don’t think we can get lightning in a bottle again – it was great to get together for a very fitting end.’
But despite the female-led comedy becoming a beloved household name, the actress said women were often told they weren’t funny when the series began. Pictured with co-star Jane Turner on the show
In a two-part celebration set to air on Seven, the beloved foxy Kath and Kim will showcase a slice of their lives today.
It will feature never-before seen moments and appearances from some very familiar faces and a special guest or two.
Executive Producer Rick McKenna confirmed the news of the special in early October.
Speaking with Herald Sun on Saturday, she said ‘the show had a difficult birth’ because of the attitude towards female comedians
She said: ‘It’s fascinating and delightful to see audiences around the world still loving Kath & Kim after 20 years.
‘It was great fun getting the team back together, plenty of laughs all around, which we look forward to sharing very soon.’
‘Since I was a young lad, I’ve admired the elegance and poise of Kath Day-Knight – and her clowning glory,’ Seven Chief Content Officer, Entertainment Programming, Angus Ross added.
‘At the time the show had a difficult birth with people not being used to women talking whatever was on their minds, and the world has changed so much in 20 years in that women can do comedy,’ Gina, who played Kim Craig (née Day), said
‘In fact, it’s safe to say she was my first crush. From high-couture to yoga, Kath and Kim have had an immeasurable impact on the world.
‘While I still find it difficult to look Kath in the eyes without blushing, it is an honour to be able to reunite them with their adoring fans.’
Kath & Kim: Our Effluent Life airs Sunday, November 20 on Seven and 7Plus at 7pm, followed by Kath & Kim: 20 Preposterous Years on Monday, November 21 on Seven and 7Plus at 7.30pm.
In a two-part celebration set to air on Seven, the beloved foxy Kath and Kim will showcase a slice of their lives today. It will feature never-before seen moments and appearances from some very familiar faces and a special guest or two. (The cast is pictured here)