Comedy Stars Hold Fundraiser Event For Russell Gilbert

To support their friend and one of Australia’s favourite entertainers, Russell Gilbert, an all-star line-up of Australia’s top comedians are set to stage a fundraiser event dubbed as Gala For Gilbo in Melbourne this July 17.

Among the many renowned funny men and women sharing the stage in this comedy extravaganza will be Dave Hughes, Wil Anderson, Judith Lucy, Glenn Robbins, Denise Scott, Shaun Micallef, Richard Stubbs, Brian Nankervis, Lehmo, Bob Franklin, Lawrence Mooney, Trevor Marmalade, Colin Lane and more, hosted by Mick Molloy.

The night will also see ARIA award-winning musical comedy duo, Scared Weird Little Guys reunite for the event, with special appearances by Russell’s former Hey Hey It’s Saturday co-stars, Red Symons and Wilbur Wilde.

Russell suffered through a brain aneurysm, followed by a stroke last year that has left him reeling. His family and close friends say that the former star of Hey Hey, It’s Saturday, whose TV career began in 1998 with The Comedy Company – two of the most popular Australian comedy shows of all time - will not be able to get back to work anytime soon.

All proceeds from Gala For Gilbo will help provide for his rehabilitation and ongoing care, to help him get back on his feet. There will also be a silent auction during the night, with dozens of Big Ticket items available to bid on prior to the show and at interval.

Meanwhile, those of Russell’s famous friends who are unable to appear live, like Rob Sitch (reprising his much-loved Frontline character, Mike Moore), Daryl Somers and more will each pre-record a special shout out.

One of Gilbo’s oldest mates, and MC for the event, Mick Molloy says, “Russell Gilbert is like a big brother to me. He is one of the funniest blokes I’ve ever met, on or off the stage and he’s coming off a pretty bad year that has involved some pretty major battles.

“Gilbo has always been there for many of us when we needed him and now it’s our turn to help out a mate".

“Not one person we asked to be part of this show said no…I think that says a lot about the man".

“Come along and enjoy the greatest line up of comics you will ever see under the one roof in this lifetime. I can’t wait for this night".

“Comics love an excuse to get together and have a few laughs, especially when it’s for a good cause and a good bloke like Gilbo. I think this night, for many reasons, will be one we all remember fondly, especially Russell, who’s been doing it tough for a while now”.

Russell Gilbert says, “It’s so great to know you have such amazing support from your friends. What a line-up of comics! The best in the country. And Mick as well".