H. G. Nelson and Roy and HG
H. G. Nelson is the comedic persona of Greig Pickhaver, who, along with John Doyle as Rampaging Roy Slaven, forms the iconic Australian comedy duo Roy and HG. Known for their satirical take on sports and quintessentially Australian humor, Roy and HG have become a staple in Australian entertainment.
Early Beginnings
The partnership between Greig Pickhaver and John Doyle began when they met while working on the SBS children's series Five Times Dizzy. Their comedic chemistry led them to create the characters HG Nelson and Roy Slaven, and they began to gain recognition through their radio show This Sporting Life, which ran from 1986 to 2008 on Triple J.
Iconic Shows
The Dream with Roy and HG
One of their most famous ventures was The Dream with Roy and HG, a sports-comedy talk show broadcast every night during the Sydney 2000 Olympics and the Athens 2004 Olympics. The show provided a unique and humorous commentary on the events, making it a beloved part of the Olympic experience in Australia.
The Ice Dream with Roy and HG
During the 2002 Winter Olympics, the duo hosted The Ice Dream with Roy and HG, following a similar format to their previous Olympic shows. Their irreverent style and comedic insights continued to entertain viewers.
Other Notable Works
This Sporting Life
This Sporting Life was one of the longest-running and most popular radio shows in Australia. It featured a mix of sports commentary, interviews, and satirical takes on current events. The show earned Roy and HG a loyal following and numerous awards.
Roy and HG's State of Origin Commentary
Every year, during the State of Origin series, Roy and HG provide a humorous commentary, which has become a much-anticipated feature of the event. Their unique blend of satire and sports analysis offers a refreshing alternative to traditional sports commentary.
Fatso the Fat-Arsed Wombat
During The Dream with Roy and HG, the duo introduced a recurring character, Fatso the Fat-Arsed Wombat. This character, with its lazy, cheerful expression and comically pronounced rump, became a cultural icon and a symbol of Roy and HG's comedic style.
Legacy
Roy and HG's influence extends beyond their individual shows. They have also contributed to various other television programs, radio shows, and written works, solidifying their place in Australian pop culture. Their ability to blend satire with genuine sports enthusiasm has made them unique figures in the world of comedy and entertainment.