The Ricky Gervais Show

The programme shows Stephen Merchant feeling embarrassed as he tries to buy condoms, with the awkward moment captured on camera. In a separate segment, Karl Pilkington shares his thoughts on the insect world and gives a step‑by‑step guide to cutting an avocado.

The Year is a television programme formatted as an episode that brings together a range of off‑beat conversations. It adopts a light‑hearted, observational style, allowing its contributors to share personal anecdotes and oddball topics. The format is simple: each segment focuses on a particular subject, often revealed through candid dialogue. In this particular instalment, the spotlight falls on Stephen Merchant as he recounts a moment of acute embarrassment while purchasing condoms. The segment captures his discomfort and the humour that arises from such a mundane yet socially awkward situation, presenting the experience in a way that feels both relatable and entertaining. The episode also features Karl Pilkington, who shifts the conversation to the world of insects and the seemingly trivial act of cutting avocados. Pilkington’s musings wander between the peculiar habits of bugs and the practicalities of preparing the fruit, offering his characteristic blend of curiosity and dry wit. Together, these two pieces create a contrast between personal embarrassment and quirky observations about nature and food. The programme’s tone remains conversational throughout, using everyday scenarios to spark discussion. By weaving together Merchant’s awkward purchase with Pilkington’s insect and avocado commentary, the episode maintains a relaxed rhythm that keeps the audience engaged.