ALI G the iconic character of the ‘Da West Staines Massiv,’ is set to make a triumphant return, announced by none other than Sacha Baron Cohen. The versatile actor and comedian, whose father hails from Wales, is gearing up for a fresh stand-up routine, with a helping hand from the bloke who grew up “in da heart of da Staines ghetto.”
Both Deadline and Variety have corroborated that Cohen is dusting off the trademark fake chains and yellow sunglasses, fueling the excitement among fans. While the specifics of Ali G’s involvement in the upcoming show remain shrouded in mystery, his team has categorically dismissed any notions of his appearance on the big screen.
Cohen, master of secrecy, is keeping his cards close to his chest. An insider divulged to Variety, “As a SAG and WGA member, he is supporting the ongoing strike alongside his fellow writers and actors.” This nod to the prevailing strike enveloping the United States entertainment industry underscores his solidarity with the movement demanding improved pay conditions amidst the streaming era.
In solidarity with the ongoing strike, participants are strictly advised against discussing present, past, or future projects. This strategic move aims to amplify the strike’s impact, exerting pressure on the entertainment sector to rectify compensation disparities in television and film productions.
Ali G made an unexpected comeback in 2021 with a surprise performance in Sydney, Australia’s The Comedy Store. The audience was genuinely blown away by the character’s return, prompting Cohen to reflect on the experience. Speaking to British GQ, he shared, “I just wanted to get on stage and muck around and see what Ali G would be like with a crowd. It was really good fun.”
Months later, Cohen expressed his desire to continue such performances. He told the outlet, “Yes, I think I would. The reason I became a comedian was that I loved people laughing at my jokes. To actually hear laughter is a rare thing for me. When I do the movies, I have to wait three months to hear an audience laugh.”
Sacha Baron Cohen’s journey as Ali G began in the late ’90s, with appearances on various shows that eventually propelled him to household name status. The character’s own series, The Ali G Show, saw him interviewing unsuspecting celebrities, politicians, and public figures, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. In 2007, Cohen retired Ali G due to his heightened recognizability, which hindered his ability to carry out pranks incognito.
