Esther Manito
Published: Tuesday 5th September 2023
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week: Uh-oh here she comes, she's a Man-ito - as Hall and Oates so nearly sang. Yes, it's Esther Manito, who's on tour with the dramatically-titled Hell Hath No Fury.
"The show is a real rant about all the things that drive you mad," Esther explains. "I have always loved the parts of my past shows and clubs sets that were my biggest meltdowns, so I decided to put all the things that push you over the edge into a show."
She'll next perform it in her home county of Essex - at Southend's Palace Dixon Studio - on Friday, followed by most of your major conurbations.
"It has been a joy to deliver," she says, "and I LOVE that I can see people nodding along, and hearing the bits they related to after the show."
We all love a mutual moan. Esther Manito, your Random 8 await.
Who was your first celebrity crush - and ever met them?
Dale Winton! I met him when I worked behind a bar in North London. My mate told him I fancied him and he gave me a cuddle, told me I was lovely but I was barking up the wrong tree.
What's the worst thing you've ever bought a ticket for?
A ride which I thought looked great fun, but caused my girl to be completely traumatised and caused me no end of guilt.
Which historical figure should get more attention?
Alice Diamond, she ran the 1930's south London gang called The Forty Elephants, which comprised entirely of women. Lily Phillips and I do a podcast called Ghastly Women where we discuss women who do ghastly things and when I stumbled across Alice Diamond I was enraged that she has not had as much notoriety as the Krays!
What's your favourite phrase or expression?
Fit as a butcher's dog.
Who's the most interesting person you've ever met?
My dad. He is really good company and, at 78, he is still surprising me with all the things he has done!
What's the best thing you ever ate?
Arghhhhhhh, so many things! Jerk pork in Jamaica. As someone who never really ate pork and doesn't really like it, not only did it surprise me that I could enjoy pork but I literally ate it three times a day for two weeks.
Which movie would you love to have been in, and which part?
Cocaine Bear. Ranger Liz.
When were you most embarrassed?
I am always embarrassed. I think postpartum on stage, and wet myself whilst legging it to a gig to not be late...
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