Derek Season 1 Cast: Where Are They Now?

Hey guys! Ever wondered what happened to the amazing cast of Derek Season 1? This show, created by and starring the one and only Ricky Gervais, really touched our hearts with its blend of humor and poignant moments. Let's dive in and see where the stars of the first season are now!

Ricky Gervais as Derek Noakes

Ah, Ricky Gervais, the mastermind behind Derek! He not only created the show but also played the title character, Derek Noakes. Derek is a kind-hearted, selfless caregiver at a retirement home, whose innocent view of the world brings both laughter and tears. Gervais's portrayal was nothing short of brilliant, earning him critical acclaim and a legion of fans. Before Derek, Gervais was already a household name thanks to his work on The Office (the original UK version) and Extras. These shows cemented his status as a comedic genius with a knack for creating awkward, yet relatable, characters.

Since Derek Season 1, Ricky Gervais has continued to dominate the comedy scene. He's done several stand-up specials, including Humanity, SuperNature, and Armageddon, all of which have been hugely successful. He also created and starred in the Netflix series After Life, a show that explores grief and loss with his signature blend of dark humor and heartfelt emotion. After Life was a massive hit, further solidifying Gervais's reputation as a comedic force to be reckoned with. Besides his on-screen work, Gervais has also been a vocal advocate for animal rights, often using his platform to raise awareness about animal welfare issues. He's also hosted the Golden Globe Awards multiple times, delivering controversial but always entertaining monologues. Whether you love him or find him a bit edgy, there's no denying that Ricky Gervais has left an indelible mark on comedy.

Kerry Godliman as Hannah

Next up, we have the fabulous Kerry Godliman, who played Hannah, the caring and compassionate manager of the retirement home where Derek works. Hannah is the heart of the show, always putting others first and providing a sense of stability and warmth. Godliman's performance was spot-on, capturing Hannah's strength and vulnerability with equal measure. Before Derek, Kerry Godliman was a well-known face on the comedy circuit in the UK, with several stand-up shows and appearances on various TV panel shows.

Since Derek Season 1, Kerry Godliman's career has gone from strength to strength. She's appeared in numerous TV shows, including After Life (alongside Ricky Gervais again), where she played Lisa, Tony's wife, in flashback scenes. Her performance in After Life was particularly moving, showcasing her ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles with grace. Godliman has also starred in shows like Bad Move, a sitcom about a couple who move to the countryside, and Save Me, a thriller series. In addition to her TV work, she continues to perform stand-up comedy, touring regularly and delighting audiences with her witty observations and relatable humor. Kerry Godliman is definitely one of those actors who can do it all, and we can't wait to see what she does next!

Karl Pilkington as Karl

Let's not forget the one and only Karl Pilkington, who played... well, Karl! In Derek, Karl is the reluctant caretaker who provides much of the show's comedic relief with his unique perspective on life. Pilkington's deadpan delivery and often bizarre observations made him an instant fan favorite. Before Derek, Karl Pilkington was best known for his work with Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant on The Ricky Gervais Show and An Idiot Abroad. His unfiltered thoughts and hilarious reactions to travel experiences made him a cult figure.

Since Derek Season 1, Karl Pilkington has continued to embrace his quirky persona. He starred in the Sky One series The Moaning of Life, where he travels the world to explore different aspects of life and death. His candid and often hilarious reflections on these topics made the show a big hit. Pilkington has also written several books, including Karlology: What I've Learnt So Far, which offers his unique insights into the world. While he may not be a classically trained actor, Karl Pilkington has carved out a niche for himself with his distinctive brand of humor and his endearing everyman quality. Whether you find him baffling or brilliant (or both!), there's no denying that Karl Pilkington is one of a kind.

David Earl as Kev

Ah, Kev! Played by the hilarious David Earl, Kev is the unemployed layabout who spends most of his time hanging around the retirement home, trying to scam free meals and generally causing chaos. Despite his questionable behavior, Kev is ultimately harmless and provides plenty of laughs. David Earl's portrayal of Kev was perfect, capturing the character's mix of desperation and obliviousness. Before Derek, David Earl was a familiar face on the comedy circuit, often working with Ricky Gervais on various projects.

Since Derek Season 1, David Earl has continued to be a comedic force. He's appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including After Life, where he played Brian, a similarly hapless character. Earl has also starred in shows like Rovers, a sitcom about two football fans, and Brian and Charles, a film about a lonely inventor who builds a robot. In addition to his on-screen work, David Earl is also a talented writer and comedian, often performing live and creating his own content. He has a knack for playing lovable losers, and his performances are always memorable. David Earl is definitely one to watch, and we're excited to see what he does next!

What Made Derek Season 1 So Special?

Derek Season 1 was special for a multitude of reasons. The show's unique blend of comedy and heart resonated with audiences, and the characters were so well-developed and relatable. Ricky Gervais's sensitive portrayal of Derek Noakes challenged stereotypes and promoted empathy. The show also tackled important themes such as aging, loneliness, and the importance of human connection. Derek wasn't afraid to be both funny and moving, and that's what made it so memorable.

The chemistry between the cast was also a key ingredient in the show's success. Ricky Gervais, Kerry Godliman, Karl Pilkington, and David Earl created a believable and endearing ensemble. Their interactions felt natural and authentic, and their individual performances were top-notch. Derek Season 1 was a true gem, and it's no wonder that it continues to be loved by fans around the world.

So, there you have it! A little update on what the fantastic cast of Derek Season 1 has been up to. It's amazing to see how their careers have evolved and how they've continued to entertain us in various ways. Derek will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we're grateful for the laughter and tears that the cast brought to our screens. Keep shining, guys!