Professor Prokar Dasgupta has been interviewed many times by news and media programmes. In 2024, he received a very different invitation. The BBC asked whether he would appear as an expert on anatomy and biology in a new special edition of Cunk on Life. He agreed, seeing it as a chance to bring some laughter to friends and family. This article looks back at Professor Dasgupta on Cunk on Life and why laughter matters for health.
Who is Philomena Cunk?
Philomena Cunk, played by Diane Morgan, is a hapless reporter who has starred in several acclaimed mockumentaries, including Cunk on Shakespeare and Cunk on Earth. Her technique is simple: she asks real experts questions that range from the naive to the impossible, entirely straight-faced, and films their reactions.
Cunk on Life was first shown on BBC iPlayer on 30 December 2024 and on Netflix from 2 January 2025. You can watch it on BBC iPlayer.
Filming without a script
Diane Morgan worked from a script, but Professor Dasgupta did not have one, so all of his answers were unrehearsed. He had been briefed about her haplessness, and some of her questions were, in his words, among "the most impossible questions" delivered with a completely straight face.
Having watched earlier episodes, he was ready for a mention of "her mate Paul", a running joke in the series. Her dog, Bobby, wandered in and out during filming, which added a natural sense of calm to the set.
An unexpected result
In previous episodes, most experts eventually lose their composure and start laughing. Professor Dasgupta found the opposite happened. It was Cunk who burst into giggles rather than him, and the producer later told him this had not happened before.
He has joked that it might be time to stop being a robotic surgeon and start a new career as an actor, and has invited viewers to let him know what they think.
How it was received
Since it aired, the programme has received excellent reviews. In its review, The Guardian described Professor Dasgupta as the best actor since Laurence Olivier, or a beautiful naif. Many people contacted him on social media to ask what the experience was like and how he managed to keep a straight face.
His answer was that it was a great experience, and quite unlike any other filming he had done. Being asked unpredictable questions on camera, with no script to fall back on, called for a different kind of concentration from a news interview.
Why laughter matters
The benefits of laughter are well recognised. It can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, support heart health and help people sleep better. Nobody can be happy all the time, but moments of shared laughter make a real difference to wellbeing.
For patients facing illness, and for those who care for them, a lighter moment can be especially welcome. It does not replace medical treatment, but it can help people cope with the worry that often comes with it.
A different side of a surgeon's life
Professor Dasgupta's working life centres on robotic surgery, research and teaching. You can read more in his biography, on the roles and background page and on the achievements page. Appearances like this one show a lighter side, and a reminder that doctors are people too.
Our news page collects other media coverage of his work, from telesurgery to press features.
Enjoy the show
Professor Dasgupta hopes viewers enjoy 70 minutes of hearty laughter. If you have not seen Cunk on Life yet, it is well worth watching.
If you would like to arrange a consultation with Professor Dasgupta, please contact the clinic.