A chance encounter with British television personalities Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly during university life has inspired a former student to pursue a career in entertainment. The meeting occurred when the duo, then known for their children’s television work, performed a live show in Nottingham while the student was attending Nottingham University in the mid-1990s.
At the time, the student was not particularly focused on their chemistry degree, which had its fair share of challenges. An experiment gone awry involving goat’s blood and hydrogen peroxide left a lasting impression. Despite the mishap, the student was more captivated by the vibrant culture of the 1990s, particularly the rise of British dance music and Britpop, which greatly influenced their university experience.
Meeting the Stars and a Shift in Ambition
When Ant and Dec announced their live show, excitement filled the air. The student, along with friends, anticipated a night of comedy, reminiscent of their previous experiences at concerts, including a notable performance by Robbie Williams. However, they were met with an audience of enthusiastic teenage fans, providing a stark contrast to their expectations.
After the show, fueled by a few drinks, the group discovered the hotel where Ant and Dec were staying. They managed to charm their way into the hotel room, engaging in conversation and sharing beers. It was during these early hours that a new ambition emerged. The student realized they could forgo a traditional career in chemistry for a path in entertainment, inspired by the lively banter and charisma of Ant and Dec.
“I knew I wanted to become Ant,” the student remarked, envisioning a life filled with laughter rather than laboratory work. Their friend, Phil, became a partner in this newfound ambition, leading to a series of creative endeavors during their university years.
From University Dreams to Creative Ventures
The duo adopted the names Flexmaster Groove and Flashmaster Chops as they delved into DJing, mixing tracks and hosting a radio show called “Phil and Rich’s Potato Mash” on University Radio Nottingham. While their antics included humorous segments like “Feel the Food,” their journey was not without mishaps, including a memorable two-hour broadcast of silence.
After graduation, they attempted to keep their dreams alive by sending a radio demo to BBC Radio 1. Although they received encouraging feedback, they did not secure the sought-after Breakfast Show slot. Their ambitions took them to Australia, where they launched a comedy website, philandrich.com, filled with jokes and banter inspired by British comedy.
Despite the eventual decline of their joint venture, both individuals have continued to pursue careers in creative fields. The student found a path in journalism, while Phil took on a role at the BBC, although the specifics remain a mystery.
Reflecting on their journey, the student remains hopeful that opportunities may arise in the future. “If Ant and Dec ever retire, we might just be the perfect fit to step in,” they mused, holding onto the dream sparked by that unforgettable night.
