
Well, you'd look that way if you'd grown up in Kettering, Northamptonshire.
But he had a lot of imagination, and a desire to escape. He quit his A-Levels and joined a series of bands as the drums - from the New Hardcore Skiffle Movement, The Capri-Sun Quartet, The Wow! Scenario, Pindrop and Three Line Whip - before taking a punt at stand up comedy on a course.
In no time at all, Acaster was appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe alongside fellow comedians Josh Widdicombe and Nick Helm and moving onto world domination. Well, stand-up comedy domination that is.
Where else have you seen James Acaster?
Jon Richardson: Ultimate Worrier
Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled

In no time at all, Acaster was appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe alongside fellow comedians Josh Widdicombe and Nick Helm and moving onto world domination. Well, stand-up comedy domination that is.
He may only have one facial expression, but that's only because he prefers to keep a straight face. And frankly, we think it works.
It works so well that he has now appeared in Comedy Festivals around the world, including Australia and New Zealand, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock the Week, QI, Room 101, Live at the Apollo, and of course, Taskmaster.
He's even dabbled in his own shows, the fancy thing. He's created a mockumentary series, Sweet Home Kettering, which pays its dues to his hometown, and he has 4 live shows on Netflix - so you could find him anywhere, anytime.
Now, stop reading this and head on over to TASKMASTER, where you can witness him compete for a chance at earning Greg's approval, and the golden trophy.