The release of the UK’s New Year Honours list has triggered a fierce debate online, with Ricky Gervais supporters venting their frustration after the comedian was once again left off the list.
The controversy erupted after it was revealed that Paul Elliott, best known as one half of the beloved Chuckle Brothers, had been awarded an MBE, while Gervais received no recognition. The announcement also included honours for high-profile figures such as Idris Elba, Olympic legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, and members of England’s women’s football and rugby teams.
Fans Question The Decision
As news of the honours spread, social media quickly filled with angry reactions from some Gervais fans who questioned how Elliott had been recognised while Gervais was overlooked.
“So apparently a Chuckle Brother has done more for British comedy than Ricky Gervais,” one user wrote, calling the decision “a joke.”
Others echoed the sentiment, with one fan saying they hoped Gervais would be offered a knighthood in the future — only to reject it outright.
However, not everyone agreed.
Pushback Comes Just As Fast
The criticism was immediately met with backlash from fans defending Paul Elliott and the legacy of the Chuckle Brothers.
“Are you really bad-mouthing Paul and Barry? Not on my watch,” one person replied, while another wrote that the Chuckle Brothers were “British comedy gold” who entertained generations of children.
Some users also pointed out that Ricky Gervais himself has never shown much interest in royal honours, suggesting the outrage was more about fan pride than the comedian’s own feelings.
“I doubt Ricky cares in the slightest,” one commenter posted. “This feels like people being offended on his behalf.”
Why Paul Elliott Was Honoured
Several voices stepped in to clarify that Elliott’s MBE was not awarded solely for comedy.
Many highlighted his extensive charity work with Marie Curie, the organisation that cared for his late brother Barry Chuckle, who passed away from bone cancer in 2018.
“I think it was more for his charity work,” one user explained. “Not just for saying ‘to me, to you.’”
Others stressed that honours rely on public nominations and long-term contributions, adding that lack of recognition doesn’t equate to lack of merit.
Paul Elliott Reacts To The Honour
Now 78, Elliott said learning he was to receive an MBE was “probably the best shock” of his life.
The Chuckle Brothers became household names through ChuckleVision, which ran for nearly 300 episodes across the 1990s and 2000s, cementing their place in British television history.
Since Barry’s death, Paul has become a dedicated ambassador for Marie Curie, raising funds and awareness for end-of-life care.
“It’s absolutely brilliant,” he said. “A lad from a council estate in Rotherham, and after all these years, to receive an MBE is such an honour.”
He explained that his charity involvement began simply, after tweeting that if each of his followers donated £1 to Marie Curie, it could raise tens of thousands of pounds.
Debate Highlights Bigger Questions
The online uproar has reignited a familiar debate around the honours system — who gets recognised, why they’re chosen, and how contributions are measured.
While some fans remain angry that Ricky Gervais continues to be overlooked, others argue the backlash misses the point entirely.
As one blunt commenter summed it up: “The Chuckle Brothers earned their place. Paul earned his honour. And I’d bet Ricky Gervais would agree.”
