The Secret Reviewer #39: Hackwatch

Every month our clandestine critic reveals the murky truths behind that infamous trade, and live comedy generally. This month: From TV genius to stand-up hack: it's a regrettable transition.

I did honestly have a good think about checking out Ricky Gervais's much discussed new show before starting this month's column, but that would involve watching Ricky Gervais do stand-up, and I don't think any sensible comedy people do that unless they really have to.

Still, Elon Musk, Mark Dolan and Daily Mail columnist Sarah Vine liked it, so that, er, tells you something.

It was interesting seeing social media respond...