The original XFM radio show hosted by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant in 1998 marked the beginning of a comedic partnership that would later evolve into the popular podcast and television series known as "The Ricky Gervais Show." Initially, the show aired from January to August 1998, every Sunday from 4–6pm, and featured a mix of music, banter, and interactive segments with the audience. This early version of the show was more conventional in its format, with Gervais and Merchant engaging with listeners through phone-ins and reading letters, setting the stage for their unique brand of humor.

The duo left XFM following the station's acquisition by the Capital Group in 1998. After the success of the first season of "The Office" (UK), which Gervais co-created with Merchant, Gervais and Merchant returned to XFM in 2001. They were joined by producer Karl Pilkington, whose offbeat musings and life stories became a central feature of the show. Pilkington's role evolved from merely "pressing the buttons" to becoming an integral part of the show, contributing his unique perspective and stories, which endeared him to the listeners. As a result, the show shifted its focus to Pilkington's anecdotes and the co-hosts' reactions, creating a cult following that endures to this day.

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