We use cookies to help us understand how you use our site, and make your experience better. To find out more read our privacy policy.
Profile image for John Clarke

John Clarke

Comedian, Writer, Actor

John Clarke as Fred Dagg in Dagg Day Afternoon.

Supplied by Onfilm

Journalist and current affairs presenter David Exel in the 1990s, after he moved into public relations. Exel was the first person to interview Fred Dagg on TV (for Gallery), and helped coin Dagg's name.

Photo courtesy of Audette and Mary Exel

Fred Dagg and television camera, from 1976 book The Thoughts of Chairman Fred.

Photo courtesy of Fourth Estate Books, Fourth Estate Group. Photo by John Selkirk

Fred Dagg and telephone, from 1976 book The Thoughts of Chairman Fred. The shot was taken as part of a day long photo session on Brian and Pam Lochore's North Wairarapa farm. Clarke, photographer John Selkirk, and publisher Ian Grant used a wide range of props, from a tractor to the Lochores’ bed.

Photo courtesy of Fourth Estate Books, Fourth Estate Group. Photo by John Selkirk

John Clarke on set at Telethon 1977 as Fred Dagg. Eight other performers (including Ray Columbus, third from right), also dressed in Fred Dagg-style costume, stand behind him striking ‘strong-arm’ poses.

TVNZ. Supplied by Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision — TVNZ Collection

John Clarke as Fred Dagg in 1975

© Dominion Post

John Clarke as Fred Dagg Signing Books with Gumboot in 1975

© Dominion Post

Concept pic of Fred Dagg from the bro'Town episode "A Vegetarian at My Table"

Courtesy of Firehorse Films

John Clarke as Fred Dagg on stage during the Fred Dagg NZ Tour in 1976

Supplied by Lorin Clarke

Fred Dagg improvising in Brian and Pam Lochores’ hay barn, from 1976 book The Thoughts of Chairman Fred.

Photo courtesy of Fourth Estate Books, Fourth Estate Group. Photo by John Selkirk

John Clarke speaks to the crowd at Telethon 1977

TVNZ. Supplied by Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision — TVNZ Collection

John Clarke as Fred Dagg Publicity Still

© Dominion Post

John Clarke on the ‘Hudson and Halls’ kitchen set.

©TVNZ. Supplied by Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision — TVNZ Collection