Comic History Lesson - Billy T James...

The iconic Kiwi comedian, Billy T James has a natural gift in making people laugh. While he was somewhat ostracised by some Maori for his piss-takes on the culture, many more loved they he could do so, even if it was stereotyped.

He started out as a singer, personally I didn't think that much of this side, but his artistic and comic timing were second to none in this country, and up there with others of his time internationally. My father thought he was a genius and it was one of those few times all of us sat in front of the goggle box together.

Choosing clips that characterise Billy is not easy, at least not narrowing it down. But here are three that covered him well - the handyman, the news reader, and the 'typical' Maori.

RIP.