In an era where celebrity collaborations often dissolve into acrimony and public spats, the enduring partnership of Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan stands as a notable counterexample. The comedy duo, who met as unknowns on the British comedy circuit nearly two decades ago, have revealed that they once feared their professional success might tear their friendship apart. Instead, as they tell it, the opposite has occurred: their bond has deepened, evolving into what they describe as a brotherhood.
Speaking exclusively ahead of their appearance on the second series of the BBC's Celebrity Traitors, Beckett, 40, and Ranganathan, 48, reflected on the trajectory of a relationship that has survived the fickle demands of television fame. Their remarks offer a rare glimpse into the mechanics of a creative partnership built on mutual respect rather than competitive ambition.
Why did the comedy duo fear their friendship would end?
Beckett admitted that the prospect of working together on television, including the ninth series of their Sky show Rob & Romesh Vs, initially provoked anxiety. 'We were close before, but now we're like brothers,' he said. 'I love Romesh to pieces, and my biggest fear was: I hope this show didn't make us drift apart like some people on TV do.'
Far from fracturing their relationship, however, the experience appears to have reinforced it. 'If anything, our friendship has increased and we've become stronger. The TV just becomes less important, which is the best way it could be,' Beckett added.
What makes their partnership so unusual?
Ranganathan, a former mathematics teacher, framed their success as both a professional and personal achievement. The pair have won a BAFTA for their work, yet their friendship predates the accolades by nearly two decades. 'When you think back to all of the different stuff we've done, I feel very lucky to have done it with Rob,' he said. 'Rob is one of the most talented comics I've ever seen. So that opportunity to do a show with him and he's a mate, it's an incredible thing. I don't think either of us take it for granted.'
The duo first crossed paths while performing stand-up for minimal pay, long before they could abandon their day jobs. Beckett was an office temp; Ranganathan was teaching mathematics. Their slow, steady ascent allowed them to build a foundation of trust that now extends beyond the stage. Last summer, the two families holidayed together, a testament to a friendship that has become deeply intertwined with their personal lives.
What does the new series of Rob & Romesh Vs involve?
The forthcoming series, which premieres on Sky and streaming service NOW on 14 October, sees the pair attempt everything from Kung-Fu to vampire hunting to cycling the Tour De France route. It is the latter that appears to have tested their resolve most severely. 'Cycling was a challenge, just the Lycra from a morale point of view,' Beckett admitted. 'We hit rock bottom on the Champs Elysées. I'll never look at that roundabout without thinking of my back fat.'
Ranganathan echoed the sentiment with characteristic candour: 'Even if you're ripped you look like a twit. It's Japanese knotweed for the body. Once it's on, everything falls apart. Images of ourselves in Lycra led both of us to go on quite a severe health kick.' The experience was compounded by the public's reaction. 'People were taking photos and tagging us, you click on your socials and set fire to your self-esteem,' he said. Beckett added, 'I didn't read the comments, just saw a picture and that ruined my week. Luckily, millions of people are about to watch it on Sky.'
How does their success reflect broader cultural trends?
The longevity of Beckett and Ranganathan's partnership offers a counter-narrative to the transactional nature of much modern entertainment. In an industry where collaborations are often fleeting and instrumental, their willingness to prioritise friendship over career advancement is both refreshing and instructive. It also speaks to the value of genuine connection in creative work, a principle that resonates beyond the realm of comedy.
Their trajectory from unpaid gigs to international acclaim, including rap battles with the Wu-Tang Clan and a role in a Bollywood production, demonstrates that sustained success need not come at the expense of personal integrity. As they prepare to take on the treacherous world of Celebrity Traitors, one thing seems certain: their bond will endure, regardless of the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new series of Rob & Romesh Vs air?
The ninth series premieres on Sky and streaming service NOW on 14 October.
How long have Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan been friends?
The pair met on the comedy circuit approximately 18 years ago and have been close friends ever since.
What is Celebrity Traitors?
Celebrity Traitors is a BBC reality series in which celebrities compete in a psychological game of deception and strategy. Beckett and Ranganathan are appearing in its second series.