Stephen Merchant has revealed that he and Ricky Gervais are leading separate lives despite their successful collaborations in the past. The duo, known for their work on hit comedies like “The Office,” “Extras,” and “Life’s Too Short,” once co-wrote and hosted shows together. However, Stephen disclosed that they have drifted apart and don’t communicate much nowadays.
In an interview with The Times, Stephen mentioned that even when they were close, they had distinct lifestyles. He humorously pointed out their age gap, saying that while he was exploring nightclubs, Ricky was settling into a comfortable routine.
Currently, Stephen is focused on his writing projects, spending most of his time at his London home crafting scripts and preparing for his upcoming stand-up routines. He hinted at working on diverse genres like action thrillers, sci-fi, and romantic comedies.
Despite rumors of a fallout between the two, Stephen clarified that there is no animosity. He emphasized that differences in career paths do not equate to personal conflicts. Addressing speculations surrounding a tweet that fans perceived as a jab at Ricky, Stephen clarified that it was not directed at his former partner.
Reflecting on his journey post-“The Office,” Stephen acknowledged feeling a sense of competition within himself. He humorously compared his viewing habits to Noel Gallagher’s approach to cover songs, highlighting his selective consumption of content related to his past work.
During a podcast appearance, Stephen discussed the dynamics that contributed to their success. He attributed his analytical approach to storytelling and structure, contrasting it with Ricky’s more spontaneous comedic style.
Having achieved success in both TV and film, Stephen expressed contentment with his level of fame. He playfully noted the recognition he receives for his accomplishments rather than just his tall stature when out in public.