Man who helped launched Rowan Atkinson's career to appear in Glasgow

Richard Sparks will be taking part in the World Science Fiction Convention, known as Worldcon,  when it comes to Glasgow’s SEC this week taking part in a series of panels including Adapting Books for TV and Film and Storytelling without Words. 

With 40 years of experience, Richard’s CV includes scriptwriting for ITV series Famous Five and BBC2 sketch show Not the Nine O’Clock News, starring Rowan Atkinson, Mel Smith, Richard Curtis and Pamela Stephenson.  

He has also directed Jack Black in The Soldier’s Tale at The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and created the Schoolmaster sketch for Atkinson for a show at Hampstead Theatre which was the Mr Bean actor’s big break.  

Richard Sparks with Jack Black (Image: Supplied)

"All these middle aged men keep coming up to me and saying ‘you’re my dad’s favourite comedy writer," he laughs. 

"It’s quite a long time ago now, but the sketches, some of them hold up pretty well I think," he adds of Not the Nine O’Clock News.  

Richard’s appearance at Worldcon comes following the release of his debut novel New Rock New Role which was released in December last year.  

Described as the "perfect blend of gaming world and epic fantasy", the book follows Daxx and his teammates Qrysta and Grell as they win the Role-Playing Games Grand Championship, before Daxx wakes up to find he’s turned into his own avatar.  

(Image: Supplied)

"I’ve found my bliss at last as a writer," Richard says. 

"I’ve always wanted to write fiction and never knew what to write and then this idea just grew out of my love of role-playing games. 

"I finished the first book in two months, it’s extraordinary. 

"It’s been the best burst of creativity I’ve ever had."

The book has been well received, having five-star reviews on Amazon, with Richard calling the response "lovely". 

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At Worldcon, Richard says he’s looking forward to meeting people attending the event and is hoping attendees costumes live up to his expectations from attending the event in North America.  

"They’re a lot of fun," the London-born writer says.  

"I'm looking forward to meeting the big names, talking to people and helping where I can.  

"There are occasions where you can meet writers and pick their brains so anything I can pass on to the next lot will be great." 

So, what is Richard’s advice for aspiring writers?  

"Write", he simply says.  

(Image: Supplied)

Calling Billy Connolly "a great hero of mine", Richard also says he has some advice inspired by the comedian for budding scriptwriters who find themselves lucky enough to get employment.  

He said: "Billy Connolly, who I’m lucky enough to have met a couple of times, asked what’s the secret of a happy marriage and he said ‘do as you’re told’.  

"That applies to scriptwriting as well. 

"There’s no such thing as a bad note."

And while Richard doesn’t know Glasgow well, he is looking forward to trying out the city’s Indian restaurants at the recommendation of his assistant who went to Glasgow University.  

"My assistant said she’s going to show me all the best Indian restaurants in Glasgow," he adds. 

"Mother India is one of her favourites."

Worldcon will take place at the SEC from Thursday, August 8 until Monday, August 12.  

You can find out more about Richard Sparks at richardsparks.com.