Warm Welcome Home For Kiwi Conchord Comedian
20 Dec 2007
He’s one of New Zealand’s hottest new exports but Kiwi comedian Rhys Darby, reckons there’s no place like home.
Back in the country for Christmas, Darby says that while New Zealand is portrayed in HBO hit series Flight of the Conchords, as dull and Kiwi’s naive, he’s looking forward to moving back home in the next few years to raise his son.
Darby, whose character Murray Hewitt is band manager and New Zealand’s Deputy Cultural Attache in New York, paid a visit to Tourism New Zealand’s Auckland office. In an effort to make him feel right at home, Tourism New Zealand staff performed a waiata (Maori song) to their fellow, and fictitious, workmate.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton congratulated Darby for his achievements, and acknowledged his significant influence in helping promote New Zealand’s entertainment industry internationally.
''New Zealand is known for its nature and scenic beauty, and now through roles like Rhys Darby’s character in Flight of the Conchords, people are learning about New Zealanders’ personalities and dry sense of humour, as well as our entertainment scene.''
Darby has recently finished filming a movie with Jim Carrey called Yes Man, which is set to be released in March 2008. The story is set in a drab loan company with Darby’s character, Norman, as the boss of Carrey’s character Karl.
''My character is similar to Murray in Flight of the Conchords, but even more of a nerd, and very flamboyant,'' says Darby.
Until Flight of the Conchords starts filming its second season in June 2008, Darby is working on other projects such as developing his new character, a park ranger called Bill Napier, who featured in Darby’s stand-up comedy show in Auckland in December.
Darby is also enjoying a break from work and spending time visiting family in Waiheke, Auckland, and Nelson.
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