Robert Ross is Britain’s leading comedy historians, an author, broadcaster and public speaker whose work celebrates the people, programmes and performances that have shaped British entertainment.
The author of more than thirty books, Robert has spent over three decades researching, documenting and celebrating the history of British comedy. His extensive bibliography includes The Carry On Companion, The Goodies Rule OK, Benny Hill: Merry Master of Mirth, Peter Sellers: A Life in Comedy and Seriously Silly: The Life of Terry Jones (Hodder & Stoughton, 2025). His latest publication, How Well Do You Know Classic British Sitcoms? (HarperCollins, 2026), celebrates the characters, catchphrases and programmes that have entertained generations of television viewers.
Robert is also the co-author, alongside Gemma Ross, of The Carry On Girls (The History Press), a celebration of the actresses who contributed to one of Britain’s best-loved film franchises. A revised paperback edition was published in October 2026.
Widely recognised for his extensive knowledge of British comedy and the Carry On films, Robert has worked across television, radio, publishing and home entertainment. He has presented programmes for Talking Pictures TV, contributed to numerous Channel 5 documentaries and worked as a researcher and consultant on productions exploring British film and television history. His work also includes audio commentaries, interviews and specially commissioned features for classic film and television releases.
An experienced interviewer, lecturer and public speaker, Robert has toured extensively throughout Britain and delivered talks internationally, including aboard cruise ships. His live appearances combine historical knowledge, personal anecdotes and an infectious enthusiasm for the performers and productions that have shaped popular entertainment. He regularly participates in literary festivals, film screenings, comedy events and conversations with leading figures from the entertainment industry.
Alongside his non-fiction writing, Robert has written for theatre and audio drama and contributed to a wide range of publications. His work explores not only the history of comedy itself but also the social and cultural changes reflected through Britain’s favourite entertainers.
Robert is the co-founder of Ross Literary & Media, an independent author management and media consultancy supporting writers, performers and creative projects. He also produces original material for his growing online audience, sharing archive discoveries, commentary and affectionate explorations of classic comedy.
At the heart of Robert’s work is a lifelong passion for preserving Britain’s comedy heritage, celebrating the artists who created it and introducing their achievements to new generations.
Robert is available for literary festivals, author talks, broadcasting, interviews, cruise lectures, film screenings and cultural events exploring British comedy, film, television and entertainment history.