This is a transcript of the Q&A rearranged for an easier read through.
Enjoy!
I'm here... Ask me anything.
Q: Derek is probably one of the most moving programs I've ever seen. Were there any parts that were particularly emotional to make?
A: Ep 5 of series 2 has probably the most emotional scene I have ever had to act. I don't want to give anything away though.
Q: Love your work Ricky looking forward to DEREK 2 have you thought about the possibility of 3 season yet..
A: It's the first time I've ever considered a third series of anything, but I'll start writing it first and see if it's best as a series, a mini-series or a special. The story dictates everything.
Q: Derek pulled out a variety of emotion, how to you prepare to play the role as Derek? It must be so challenging at times.
A: Actually it's surprisingly easy because I love being him. I sort of wish I was him. Although I get a lot of static electric shocks as him from all the shuffling.
Q: Shout outs from Canada. I LOVE Derek. What made you get the idea for the show, inspired Derek? Looking forward to season2!
A: Nearly all the women in my family are carers, so I had a lifetime of anecdotes, some funny, some sad.
Q: Does Derek believe in God?
A: He doesn't care whether there is a god or not. He just knows that being good is the right way to act.
Q: As a fellow animal lover what do you think the punishment should be to anyone who commits any form of cruelty to animals ?
A: Well, I'd like to batter them around the head with a spanner but I don't think I could get that passed as a law.
Q: Hi Ricky - Do you think we will ever be able to put an end to poaching and any animal cruelty? I love that you are so involved - Thank you
A: It may be a never ending battle, but it's a battle that needs to be fought.
Q: When will you be on Opie and Anthony next?
A: Not till June I'm afraid. I love doing that show.
Q: What's your advice to young writers? We'd love to hear it.
A: Be original, write about what you know and there's no rush. Oh, and re-write, re-write, re-write.
Q: In your own opinion, what has been the highlight (so far) of your comedy career?
A: I guess it would have to be getting to work with my heroes like Christopher Guest, Larry David and Homer Simpson. :)
Q: When you were first starting, how did you pick yourself back up (figuratively speaking) and keep going after a failure?
A: If you're doing what you love every day then you can't fail.
Q: Will you be doing any more episodes of "The Office"?
A: Not as such, but we will be finding out what David Brent is up to these days, quite soon.
Q: When will you play the villain? I bet you'd be brilliant at it.
A: I do, every day on Twitter. And you're right, I am brilliant at it. :)
Q: What/who is you favourite character/comedian in comedy?
A: Laurel and Hardy, Marx Brothers, Christopher Guest, Larry David.
Q: How do you keep yourself grounded with all of your success?
A: The only success that really matters is happiness.
Q: Would you do a role in a biopic film?
A: It depends. I've been offered a few including Winston Churchill, Paul Potts, and Jockey fucking Wilson. Basically, fat blokes. I politely declined.
Q: Is it really you?
A: No. I mean Yes. Damn, I think I got away with it.
Q: Why do you always wear black?
A: Incase I get fat again. (it's not a disease)
Q: Why did my papa leave?
A: Because you were a disappointment.
Q: Do you actually prefer flans?
A: I love flan.
Q: Can I have that painting behind you?
A: That's the first thing I ever painted so I need to keep it. Sorry.
Q: Why are you vegetarian?
A: I love vegetables.
Q: What would your advice be to an aspiring English teacher in the U.S.?
A: Always leave out the U in colour, honour and favourite.
Q: I can't believe you wasted your time trying to find this comment.
A: I certainly can't believe I wasted my time answering it.
Q: What's the velocity of an orange falling from a 20 story building? Well, you did say anything!
A: At what point during it's descent?
Q: What kind of music do you listen to?
A: I love stuff like Neil Young, David Bowie, Radiohead and my latest obsession is Sun Kil Moon.
Q: Can I borrow £50
A: Yes. Not from me though, obviously.
Q: Are you overwhelmed by this turn out?!
A: It's a fucking nightmare. I mean, thank you all so much. I love you all.
Q: Have you considered going vegan?
A: I have but I love cheese too much. I am not proud of this, but it's true. Well done to all the vegans out there.
Q: What is your most liked David Bowie song/album?
A: Probably Diamond Dogs but it keeps changing. Just like him.
Q: You're a brave man Mr. Gervais. Thanks for being true to your beliefs, being vocal about them in the spotlight, and for making us all laugh along with you, even through tears, some of joy, some of frustration at the status quo. Thank you sir.
A: My pleasure.
Thank you so much for joining in with this Q&A. I will try and answer all your questions over the next 2 or 3 years. :)
