Memorable Segments of The Ice Dream with Roy and HG
The Ice Dream with Roy and HG was a sports/comedy talk show broadcast every night during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. It was presented by the iconic Australian comedy duo, Roy Slaven (played by John Doyle) and HG Nelson (played by Greig Pickhaver). Known for their satirical and humorous take on the Olympic Games, Roy and HG offered alternative perspectives on the events, making them memorable to audiences.
Satirical Commentaries and Parodies
A key feature of "The Ice Dream" was its satirical commentary and parody of Olympic events. Roy and HG provided comical observations on events like figure skating, bobsleigh, and curling. They often invented humorous terms for various sports maneuvers and techniques which became catchphrases among viewers. Their unique style involved poking fun at not just the athletes but also the presentation of the games themselves, bringing a light-hearted and irreverent tone to the otherwise serious coverage.
The Smiggin Holes 2010 Winter Olympic Bid
One of the most iconic segments was the satirical "bid" to host the 2010 Winter Olympics in Smiggin Holes, a small ski resort in New South Wales, Australia. This fictional campaign was a humorous critique of Olympic hosting processes and became a running gag throughout the series. The absurdity of hosting the Winter Olympics in a location with limited facilities highlighted the comedic genius of Roy and HG.
Invention of New Sports
Roy and HG's inventiveness extended to creating entirely new sports. These fictional events were often outrageously implausible, yet treated with the utmost seriousness in their commentary. This invention of sports added an extra layer of humor and creativity to the show, resonating with audiences who appreciated the duo's ability to entertain through the unexpected.
Celebrity Guest Appearances and Interviews
The show also featured interviews with a variety of guests, including prominent figures from the world of sports, entertainment, and beyond. These interactions often took unexpected and humorous turns, as Roy and HG's interviewing style was both unconventional and engaging. The guests themselves, aware of the duo's reputation, often played along, leading to memorable moments.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
"The Ice Dream with Roy and HG" not only entertained viewers but also left a lasting cultural impact. The show's approach to commentary was novel at the time, blending serious sports analysis with humor. This format influenced subsequent sports coverage and comedy programs in Australia and beyond. The success of "The Ice Dream" paved the way for future projects by Roy and HG, including their coverage of subsequent Olympic Games, such as "The Dream with Roy and HG" during the 2000 Sydney Olympics and the 2004 Athens Olympics.