Richardson and Planer started performing at London's Comedy Store in 1979, calling themselves "The Outer Limits". They performed short sketches parodying different television styles, for example sitcom and American police drama. They used visual comedy and often mimed over-the-top scenes of cartoon violence. At this point, various television companies were taking note of the rapidly growing "alternative comedy" scene, BBC producer Paul Jackson being the first to commission a programme from regular performers at the Comedy Store. This became 1980's "Boom Boom...Out Go The Lights". However, Jackson's decision to only showcase solo performers, featuring Planer's Neil character instead of The Outer Limits as a duo angered Richardson, who began a long-standing feud with Jackson.