Ricky Gervais has declared that working-class people remain the sole demographic comedians can ridicule without facing any repercussions.

The 64-year-old comedian made the assertion during an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s This Cultural Life, timed to coincide with his latest Netflix special Mortality, which lands on the streaming platform today.

“People understand most power struggles. They understand why racism, homophobia and misogyny are wrong, but they are very disparaging about the working classes,” Mr Gervais said.

“It’s the one thing that it seems to be fine to take the mickey out of with no blowback at all.”

Ricky Gervais

Ricky Gervais grew up with working-class parents in Reading

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The Office creator, who grew up in Reading with working-class parents, acknowledged that British comedy has long been preoccupied with class distinctions.

“We are obsessed with it, and so we should be, I think,” he added.

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Despite being nominated in the best stand-up category at next month’s Golden Globes, Mr Gervais has confirmed he will not be attending the ceremony on January 11.

The five-time host of the awards show explained that the journey from London to Los Angeles simply does not appeal to him.

Ricky Gervais

Mr Gervais confirmed he will not be attending Golden Globes this year

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“I’m probably not going to the Golden Globes … It’s too far to go,” he told the programme.

“It takes a lot to get me off the couch with my cat and my girlfriend watching Netflix.”

Mr Gervais, who lives in the capital with his partner Jane Fallon, expressed little enthusiasm for the promotional aspects of his career.

“I love the work, I love writing, I love creating, I love stand-up, but all the other stuff I could really do without,” he said.