Gervais: 'I play the arrogance card'

Rex Features

Ricky Gervais has admitted that he "plays the arrogance card" when accepting awards.

The comedian, who will be profiled in Channel 4's New Hero Of Comedy show, said he does not believe in being humble when receiving recognition for his work.

He told the Radio Times: "I enjoy good reviews and winning awards, although I play the arrogance card when I accept because I'm sickened by those who do a seriously humble speech. They're really saying, 'You're right. I'm brilliant'.

"On my tour I have a 'King of Comedy' sign in the background - and [critics] claim it isn't irony. Well, how is it not irony to think I'm king?"

Gervais dressed up as Henry VIII to promote the new series, which also includes profiles of Sacha Baron Cohen and Little Britain stars Matt Lucas and David Walliams.

The show airs at 9pm on Fridays from February 22.