INSPIRED UNEMPLOYED TV

Kiama comedy troupe

The Inspired Unemployeds have landed their first television show on Channel 10 and Paramount+ starting 9 August.

The new eight-part show is called ‘The Inspired Unemployed (Impractical Jokers). Jack Steele and Matt Ford, who started the Inspired Unemployed, are partnering with Warner Bros to bring the new show to the silver screen (and streaming services).

“We are so stoked to be working with Paramount ANZ on this TV show, from the first video we ever made our goal was to always have a TV show and for it to actually be happening is a dream come true,” said Jack and Matt in a joint statement.

“We’ve always believed that laughter is the best medicine, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to spread joy and positivity to even more people through this platform.”

The format of the show hasn’t been made clear yet, but based on promotional advertisements, seems to be based on public reaction akin to the popular US series, Impractical Jokers.

The Inspired Unemployed’s comedic style is reminiscent of an updated Paul Hogan with much of the Aussie Larrikinism and self-parody of ‘blokie’ tradies coping with difficult and uncomfortable social dilemmas. Their skits are often high-energy and absurd but with solid and clever writing and endless enthusiasm.

Since its inception, the Inspired Unemployed have amassed 3.8 million followers on their social media channels. Jack and

Matt are also known for their successful investment in the no calorie beer ‘Better Beer’ sold widely in the Kiama area.

Joining Jack and Matt are their mates Liam and Dom. Dom is also the drummer for Pacific Avenue, the high energy retro rock band from Gerringong. Pacific Avenue recently toured England, and released a debut album Flowers in May 2023, which topped the ARIA charts on debut.

by Mark Whalan