Jarlath Regan
Published: Tuesday 27th November 2018
One random comedian; eight random questions - it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week's cool 'n' calm contributor is Jarlath Regan, who you may know best for the excellent Irishman Abroad podcast, which he began shortly after becoming one. He recently launched a new podcast too, Men Behaving Better, which is all about men hopefully doing just that.
Now, we say cool 'n' calm because (a) it sums up Jarlath's onstage persona rather nicely, and (b) it alludes to a couple of things he's doing in the run up to the festive season. First up, he's MCing a corking good event in aid of the men's mental health charity CALM on the 16th, in London's Flat Iron Square.
It's a two-stage, two-genre affair, with Jarlath MCing the comedy bit at Apres, featuring James Acaster, Stephen Bailey, Sophie Duker, Pierre Novellie and Suzi Ruffell, while there's also music at Omeara itself, with Laura Marling, Bears Den, The Staves, Mystery Jets, Lewis Capaldi and Isaac Gracie.
Meanwhile the graphic-designer-turned-comic is continuing a festive tradition with his Christmas Cards: the 'cool' bit, because snow is. They're much better than those ones you usually buy, and the proceeds go to a good cause (Jarlath Regan). Links at the bottom of the page.
Plugs done. Now, Jarlath Regan, your Random 8 await.
What was your childhood career dream?
To meet Michael Jackson or be Michael Jackson, for the first nine years of my life. After that I was obsessed with playing in the NBA. This is not a joke. I bought into it all and was convinced I could do it.
Which TV show would you love to have been in?
Has to be Fun House with Pat Sharp or Gladiators. The prizes on Fun House were insane and the kids couldn't drive go-karts for shit. I am positive I'd have cleaned up. Not sure if I wanted to be on Gladiators or if I just wanted to get closer to Wolf and Jet - two of the greatest people ever to have lived in my opinion.
How do you feel about cats?
I feel like a small minority of cats give the entire cat community a bad name. They're no more self-interested and Machiavellian than any other creature with claws.
Who is - or was - your most interesting relative?
My Grandad went to the Olympics twice - and competed. He wasn't just in the stands. My grandmother is the oldest person ever to qualify as a barrister in the history of Ireland. My uncle sued a parking attendant and won. I could keep going. There's 13 on my father's side alone. All have insane stories to tell.
What's your favourite shop, ever?
I like pop vintage shops for 90s basketball memorabilia. Very hard to find but, boy oh boy, I'm 12 again when I'm in there.
Ever walked out of a film?
Yep. Leatherheads. And more recently Where The Wild Things Are. Life is too short. Fallen asleep in more than I can remember. Fell asleep in Venom. Great sleep. Terrible movie.
Have you ever tried DJing?
Nope but my wife bought me a set of decks, and I have never taken them out of the box :-(
What's the stupidest thing you ever bought?
Where do I start? Any of the 90s basketball memorabilia I hoard in my house could go missing and I'd never notice.
For Jarlath's cards, podcasts and everything else, visit jigser.com
Help us publish more great content by becoming a BCG Supporter. You'll be backing our mission to champion, celebrate and promote British comedy in all its forms: past, present and future.
We understand times are tough, but if you believe in the power of laughter we'd be honoured to have you join us. Advertising doesn't cover our costs, so every single donation matters and is put to good use. Thank you.
Love comedy? Find out more