Kath & Kim star Gina Riley says women were told they weren’t funny when the show aired

Gina Riley shot to fame on the hugely successful sitcom series Kath & Kim in the early 2000s – and now the hit show is set to make an epic return to screens this year.

But despite the female-led comedy becoming a beloved household name, the actress, 61, said women were often told they weren’t funny when the series began.

Speak with Announce sun on Saturday, she said “the show had a rough birth” because of its attitude towards female comedians.

Gina Riley, 61, shot to fame on the hugely successful sitcom series Kath & Kim in the early 2000s and now the hit show is set to make an epic return to screens this year. Pictured on the show in the early 2000s

“At the time, the show had a rough birth with people not used to women talking about whatever they wanted, and the world has changed so much in 20 years that women can do comedy,” Gina, who played Kim Craig (née Dag) , said.

“There used to be an argument that women aren’t funny. [The special reboot] was so nice and so beautiful to say goodbye in the right way.

“We just pinch ourselves that there is a new generation that is still responding to it. I don’t think we’ll be able to get lightning in a bottle again – it was great to come together for a very fitting ending.”

But despite the female-led comedy becoming a beloved household name, the actress said women were often told they weren’t funny when the series began. Pictured with co-star Jane Turner on the show

In a two-part celebration airing on Seven, beloved foxy Kath and Kim will show a slice of their lives today.

It features never-before-seen moments and performances from some very familiar faces and a few special guests.

Executive producer Rick McKenna confirmed the news of the special in early October.

Speaking to Herald Sun on Saturday, she said ‘the show had a rough birth’ because of its attitude towards female comedians

She said, ‘It’s fascinating and delightful to see audiences around the world still loving Kath & Kim after 20 years.

“It was really nice to get the team back together, there was a lot of laughter everywhere, which we would like to share soon.”

“Ever since I was a young lad, I’ve admired Kath Day-Knight’s elegance and poise — and her clownish glory,” added Angus Ross, Chief Content Officer Entertainment Programming.

“At the time, the show had a rough birth with people not used to women talking about whatever they wanted, and the world has changed so much in 20 years that women can do comedy,” Gina, who played Kim Craig (née Dag) , said

In fact, it’s safe to say she was my first crush. From high-couture to yoga, Kath and Kim have made an immeasurable impact on the world.

“While I still find it hard to look Kath in the eye without blushing, it’s an honor to be able to reunite them with their adoring fans.”

Kath & Kim: Our Effluent Life airs Sunday, November 20 on Seven and 7Plus at 7pm, followed by Kath & Kim: 20 Preposterous Years on Monday, November 21 on Seven and 7Plus at 7:30pm.

In a two-part celebration airing on Seven, beloved foxy Kath and Kim will show a slice of their lives today. It features never-before-seen moments and performances from some very familiar faces and a few special guests. (The cast is pictured here)