<![CDATA[Prince Charles has created an amusing film which
pokes fun at an interview he took part in on Australian television
37 years ago.
During an interview with Molly Meldrum in 1977 on ABC's music show
Countdown, the Prince witnessed Meldrum stumble and swear
his way through multiple takes of what was supposed to be a
quick introduction recording about The Prince of Wales.
In celebration of the 40th birthday of Countdown, Prince
Charles filmed a sketch, recounting and joking about the disastrous
interview.
Charles begins the film by saying: “There is an old showbusiness
saying ‘never work with animals or children’. But no one prepared
me for Molly Meldrum.”
After some shots of Charles attempting to make small talk with the
clearly nervous interviewer, the Prince recollects: “Was it really
40 years ago? It only seems like yesterday. I wish it were tomorrow
– I’d cancel it!”
After only being able to string a few words together, Meldrum gets
frustrated at the continuous mistakes and throws a few outbursts in
front of the young Prince of Wales.
When recalling this somewhat memorable interview,
Charles exclaims: “I certainly learned some interesting new
Australian words from Mr Meldrum. And if he could have read my mind
he could have learned some interesting new English words from
me!”
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsdVISvslkc]
Although this was clearly an awkward interview for both the Prince
and Meldrum, Charles looks back at this moment with
amusement and laughter. It has been alleged that The Prince of
Wales wrote the sketch himself in celebration of
Countdown‘s birthday.
To end the film he says: “Congratulations to Countdown, it was
an evening I will never forget, and a special thank you to Molly
Meldrum. Countdown – gone, but not forgotten.”
ABC’s director of television, Richard Finlayson spoke about the
clip, saying: “We’re absolutely thrilled His Royal Highness, The
Prince of Wales, has taken time out from his royal duties to help
celebrate Countdown’s birthday with us”. He continued by
commenting: “The sketch highlights His Royal Highness’ keen sense
of humour and the obvious affection he has for Molly and
Countdown.”
Countdown: Do Yourself a Favour airs on ABC TV at 7.40pm
on 16th and 23rd November.
Featured photo credit: Dan Marsh via
photopin cc]]>
