What appealed to you about tackling Taskmaster Australia?
I was a massive fan of the series before Australia even had its own version. In 2018 I had an awful desk job, and I used to sneakily watch Taskmaster in the corner of my screen just to pass the time. Looking back, that probably contributed to me getting fired.

Did you get any advice from any comedian mates who have been through it before?
I called Danielle Walker for advice. Her and I have brains that are creative in a similar way so I thought it would be helpful. She mostly told me to always look for clues under the table, advice I never took on and later regretted.

What was the most surprising thing about the tasks?
The time limits are real! I don’t know what I expected, maybe a bit of movie magic, but the timer is there and it’s ticking and it’s stressful. You truly just have to go with the first idea that pops into your head because there isn’t really time to brainstorm.

Were there any tasks you found enjoyable? And did any leave you psychologically scarred? I genuinely loved the task where I got to create a children’s character. I’ve always loved unsettling puppets, and it felt like my chance to express that. 

How was your relationship with Tom Cashman before this experience, and how did that change since?
Tom and I were friends prior to this but it was nice to see our sheer lack of chemistry highlighted on the big screen. I truly think the awkwardness of us both makes for very strange and oddly paced conversation, and yet, we get on very well. One of life’s great mysteries I suppose.

Would you consider yourself quite competitive? How seriously were you vying for points from the Taskmaster?
I am deeply competitive, and it was really hard trying to hide that. I think once you know that about me it’s pretty easy to spot. I grew up playing soccer (still do!) and it’s always been a great outlet for my competitiveness so that it doesn’t leak out into other areas of my life, but Taskmaster really brought it out of me. I think the big secret is everyone genuinely wants to win, but that’s what makes the show so good!

How were the studio records and getting to see how you and your fellow comedians performed in the tasks?
The studio was so much fun, there was so much I’d forgotten that happened as well as so many questions that were finally answered. It freaked me out how many tasks Hughsey and I approached in the same way. Also, at the start of literally every task playing, Hughsey would lean over to me and go “What’s this one again?”

How did Taskmaster stack up to other gigs you’ve done, and what was the experience like attempting the tasks mostly alone with Tom as your only real audience?
I loved the whole experience, it’s such an intense and fast paced environment you have no choice but to be yourself in it. I loved only having Tom as my audience, I’d try to make him laugh a lot of the time, but he doesn’t give much a way. People ask me how I like my eggs in the morning, and I always say “tough to crack”

Would you recommend other comedians take on this challenge, and do you have any advice for them?
Absolutely, it’s an insane experience but wildly fun. My advice is always look under the table.