Did you ever have a reoccurring dream that you think might just be a memory? Or a nightmare so vivid that it could almost be real? John Meagher has; he’s been dreaming about a group of devil worshippers of all things who may or may not have terrorised his home town of Newry, since the early ‘90s. He explores this and more in new documentary The Divil's Own.
Jon Ronson said of THE DIVIL’S OWN: “I laughed out loud. and I thought the transition from comedy into tragedy was absolutely effortless. Totally seamless.”
THE DIVIL’S OWN is a personal journey into Northern Ireland’s complicated, scary and sometimes downright bizarre past as Meagher faces a unique version of “Satanic Panic” in search of the truth behind his nightmares. And of course, these nightmares do come from memories…sort of. The nightly visions of Black Magic are based on more than just blarney. But even John couldn’t have dreamt where his questions would lead…
THE DIVIL’S OWN is an ambitious, funny and surprising piece of factual audio storytelling from this performer in his Radio 4 hosting debut. Commissioning Editor Hugh Levinson said “"This is a story that has everything - jump scares, suburban satanists, laughs, larks, history and politics. And one that comprehensively proves the adage that truth can be very much stranger than fiction. John Meagher said “Getting to make a show about my hometown and telling the story of “The Whitehoods” has been the most incredible experience. I’m delighted with how it turned out, and feel incredibly lucky to have done it with PJ and Keith who were fantastic collaborators throughout”.
Producer PJ Hart said “John has a real talent for weaving complex historical events into an engaging and funny story, while never shying away from its more sobering moments” Keith Martin, Creative Director of FABEL said: “We’ve been wanting to work with John for ages, he’s a great storyteller and this is quite a tale.”
In 2022 John was runner up in the prestigious Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year, before winning the Panel Prize at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe as part of “Best in Class” the working-class stand-up showcase. This success has gained John a following for his timely writing and bold performances. He supported Patrick Kielty on his recent “Borderlines” tour and his own solo standup show “Big Year” will debut at Gilded Balloon in August 2024 as part of the Edinburgh Fringe.
Before his life in stand-up comedy, John was a Martial Artist and fought for the Irish team at the World Karate Championships.
The Divil's Own, Sunday, April 21, Radio 4, 7.15pm, then on BBC Sounds here.
Picture by @bekor
