Shaun Micallef, a prominent figure in Australian comedy, is set to premiere the second season of his show, Shaun Micallef’s Eve of Destruction, on August 13, 2023. The show marks a departure from his earlier work, particularly his acclaimed series Mad As Hell, and reflects a more conversational and softer approach to television.
During a recent backstage conversation at the ABC studios in Melbourne, Micallef shared insights into his creative process and his perspective on the legacy of his work. His long-time collaborator, Michael Ward, cautioned against asking Micallef about sentimentality, a theme that runs counter to the comedian’s outlook on his body of work.
“I’m certainly not sentimental about my work,” Micallef stated. He explained that while he feels a fleeting affection for projects during their creation, he quickly becomes critical of them afterward. “I could have been better,” he reflected, indicating a pragmatic view of his contributions to television. Micallef, now 63, has enjoyed a career spanning nearly four decades, and he continues to push creative boundaries.
Micallef’s latest venture, Eve of Destruction, features a format that encourages guests to share their most treasured possessions. This premise diverges from the biting political satire that characterized Mad As Hell, which concluded in 2022. “It’s more in the conversation,” he noted, acknowledging that this style poses its own challenges.
“I just keep looking for things I haven’t done and see where that takes me,” he said, highlighting his desire for continual growth in his craft. The new show allows him to explore storytelling in a different light, focusing on personal narratives rather than sharp political commentary.
Micallef emphasized the importance of listening in interviews, a skill he learned from fellow Australian television personality Andrew Denton. “The secret is just listening, so your next question is informed by the answer they give to the previous one,” he explained. This approach has led to a more relaxed format for Eve of Destruction, which promotes genuine dialogue among guests, including notable figures such as Olympic gold medalist Ariarne Titmus and actors Lisa McCune and John Safran.
Reflecting on his past endeavors, Micallef remains unconcerned with the permanence of his work. He stated, “There’s nothing that I’ve made that will last,” underscoring a belief that much of television is inherently disposable. This perspective may explain his adaptability in an industry that is constantly evolving.
Despite his apparent detachment from his projects, Micallef acknowledges the importance of memories he has created, particularly those involving his family. “I’m very sentimental about that,” he admitted, reminiscing about the fleeting moments of fatherhood and the passage of time.
As Micallef embarks on this new chapter with Eve of Destruction, he is keen to usher in diverse talent and create space for younger performers. “I thought I might as well use whatever ability that I had to maybe open doors for people I hadn’t worked with before,” he said, emphasizing his intention to support the next generation of comedians.
With a reputation as one of Australia’s most talented political satirists, Micallef’s shift in focus to personal stories may signal a broader trend in comedy, moving away from overt political commentary. While he acknowledges that sharp satire, like that of Mad As Hell, is valuable, he believes that varied perspectives can enrich the landscape of television.
As the premiere of Eve of Destruction approaches, audiences can anticipate a refreshing take on storytelling, one that invites deeper connections and reflections on the human experience. Micallef’s willingness to explore new avenues may provide a welcome contrast to the frenetic pace of contemporary media, offering viewers a moment to pause and reflect on what truly matters.
