BE
Ben Elton
99quotes
Ben Elton: A Prolific Writer, Comedian, and Activist
Full Name and Common Aliases
Benjamin Charles Elton is commonly known as Ben Elton.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on May 3, 1959, in Morley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. Still active in the entertainment industry.
Nationality and Profession(s)
British comedian, actor, writer, director, and producer. He has worked extensively in television, film, and theater.
Early Life and Background
Ben Elton was born to a Jewish family. His parents were Ruth and Bernard Elton, and he is the second of three children. The family moved to Australia when Ben was six years old, where his father worked as an accountant. Ben attended Scotch College in Melbourne before returning to England at 19 to pursue a career in comedy.
Major Accomplishments
Ben Elton's early work as a comedian led to his first television appearances on The Young Ones (1982-1984) and Blackadder (1983). He also wrote the screenplay for the film Withnail & I (1987), which won him an Academy Award nomination. Throughout his career, Ben has written numerous novels, plays, and screenplays, including Popcorn (1996) and Dead Ringers (2008).
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his writing and acting credits, Ben Elton has been recognized for his activism on issues like climate change and social justice. In 2015, he co-founded the Climate Coalition's 'Road to Paris' campaign, calling for immediate action to reduce carbon emissions.
Impact and Legacy
Ben Elton's impact on British comedy is undeniable. His collaborations with Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson on The Young Ones and Blackadder, respectively, helped shape a new wave of satirical comedy in the 1980s. His writing has been praised for its wit, humor, and insight into human nature.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ben Elton's quotes often reflect his sharp observations on politics, society, and culture. He is widely quoted for his commentary on current events, as well as his humorous takes on everyday life. His words have resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a household name in the entertainment industry.
As an accomplished writer, comedian, and activist, Ben Elton continues to be a vital voice in the world of entertainment and beyond. His legacy extends far beyond his work on screen; he has inspired generations of writers, comedians, and social commentators.
Quotes by Ben Elton

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We’ve just lost our way, that’s all. But what if you could give us a chance to do better? Just one chance? One single move in the great game of history? What’s your best shot? What would you consider to be the greatest mistake in world history and, more to the point, what single thing would you do to prevent it?

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If I did things for the money, I’d have done adverts in the 1980s, when I was hot enough to be offered them, and ‘Police Academy 6,’ which I was asked to write.

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The worst thing about being a great power is when you’re not one any more. It takes centuries to get over it.

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When the phone rings at 2.15am in the morning it’s unlikely to be heralding something pleasant. What chance is there of its being good news? None. Only someone bad would ring at such an hour. Or someone with bad news.

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And through all that dreadful darkness she had remembered him. He who loved her. He who still loved her. Who would always love her.

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I think trying to be cool is the worst possible ambition – and I have never suffered from it.

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A time when the miracles of technology were still virile and exciting: steam engines and flying machines, not smart phones and cosmetic surgery. When there were still wildernesses left to explore and mountains left unclimbed.

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My advice to anyone adapting a novel is that once they’ve read it and learnt to understand it, then they must throw it away and never look at it again!

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She spoke loudly in order to be heard above the noise of personal communitainers that were thudding and banging all around them. Some people used earphones, some didn’t, clearly believing that as many people as possible should be given the opportunity to appreciate their musical taste. That, combined with the mass leakage from the headsets, created a terrible din and even discreet private conversations had to be conducted at a yell.
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