Ricky Gervais has declared he hopes to avoid television appearances and press interviews altogether as he attempts to build a direct relationship with fans online.
The comedian shared the remarks in a candid Instagram video on Thursday while encouraging followers to subscribe to his growing YouTube channel.
Mr Gervais explained that expanding his online audience would allow him to promote projects directly to viewers rather than appearing on television programmes.
“The reason I want to build up a following and subscribe on YouTube is so I never have to do another press interview or go on telly and have to put on trousers to promote my stuff,” he said.
Ricky Gervais has declared he hopes to avoid television appearances
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GETTYThe After Life creator suggested speaking directly to fans online felt more natural than traditional publicity appearances.
“That’s the idea. So I can come here for a chat. I can answer your questions… I want to deal directly with you,” he told followers.
Mr Gervais also joked about struggling to read comments during a recent livestream, admitting he may finally need glasses.
“I should wear glasses. Even if I try on other people’s glasses, they make my sight slightly better,” he quipped.
The comedian said he hopes he never has to do another press interview or go on telly or put on trousers to promote his stuff
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The comedian then launched into a rant about how artificial intelligence is being used on social media, saying he was already frustrated by fake clips circulating online.
“I’m sick of AI already. Well, not AI — I’m sick of the witless t***s who tweet these s****y little fake things like a fake bit of war or a fake mugging,” he said.
Mr Gervais also used the video to promote his current stand-up warm-up shows, which he is performing in smaller venues ahead of a larger tour.
He said audiences attending the intimate gigs get to see new material being tested live.
Ricky Gervais and Jane Fallon began their relationship in 1982 | GETTY
“I’m doing warm ups at the moment… mainly Leicester Square Theatre, 400 seats, £17,” he explained.
“It’s my favourite bit… you get to see me scrambling around, failing in real time.”
The comedian ended the video by thanking fans for following him and encouraging them to subscribe to his YouTube channel as he continues building his online presence.
Fans of the comedian were quick to share their reactions in the comments section of the video.
“I feel like I’m FaceTiming my dad… love it Rick… don’t think you’ll have any trouble growing your YT subs,” one fan wrote, while another penned: “Consider it done!”
A third viewer joked about finding comfort in the comedian’s posts.
“You bring me joy, which I desperately need living in the hellscape formerly known as The United States of America,” they said.
However, some fans admitted they would be disappointed if Mr Gervais stopped appearing on television altogether.
Ricky Gervais and Jane Fallon in 2004
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GETTY
“I love when you do interviews though. You on Graham Norton is always the best!” one viewer wrote.
Mr Gervais’ video came just hours before his long-term partner, Jane Fallon, shared the heartbreaking news on her Instagram page that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
In a lengthy statement, she said in part: “So… I thought I should post something as I’ve had a few people notice I’ve been a bit quiet on here lately.
“About a month ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer – very early stage thankfully & the prognosis is excellent.”
She continued: “My surgery is scheduled for the week after next and I just want to get it over with now.”