Willyde Wit
- Actor
- Writer
After making his name as part of comedy troupe Funny Business in the 80s, Willy de Wit found national success when the foursome won their own sketch show in 1988. From there de Wit appeared in a host of comedy shows throughout the 90s, including More Issues, Sportsnight and Comedy Central, before becoming a host on Radio Hauraki in 1998. He stayed with the station for 12 years.
Screenography
Biography
Born with the less than showbiz name of William McGechie, Willy de Wit spent his school years at Auckland Grammar, where he learnt music and classical ballet, then left early to work in a garden centre. While serving as the lead singer of band Rhythm Method, he decided on a whim to enter a comedy competition hosted by his local bar, Retro, in 1983.
Awards
1997 TV Guide Television Awards
Best Script Comedy - Television (awarded to the show's writing team): Comedy Central, Hollywood episode
1996 TV Guide New Zealand Film and Television Awards
Best Performance in an Entertainment Programme (shared with Mark Wright): for Sportsnight Christmas special
“It's a real cliche to say it but there is a desire to laugh in this day and age. It's a cliche but I believe it.”