Ricky Gervais: Humanity - Characters & Cast

To entertain, to provoke critical thought, and to defend the absolute freedom of comedy against modern censorship and moral panic.

As a stand-up persona, Gervais begins by presenting himself as an arrogant, hyper-wealthy celebrity, but slowly peels back layers to reveal a philosophical defender of free speech and a nostalgic son using dark humor to mourn his mother.

To find levity, comfort, and a shared bond with his brother in a deeply tragic and solemn environment.

Exists within the narrative of their mother's funeral, escalating the inappropriate humor to cope with grief, moving from suppressed giggles to openly winding up the vicar.

To police language, enforce political correctness, and impose moral superiority over the comedian.

A composite, conceptual character representing the collective outrage of social media, constantly shifting goalposts to find new reasons to be offended by Gervais's jokes.