This interview below dates from 2024. Irish comedian, actor and podcaster Gearóid Farrelly is back at the Fringe in 2026 with his new stand-up show ‘No Pressure’ at the Assembly – George Square Studio 5 at 7.20pm. For tickets go to www.edfringe.com.
In 2012 Gearóid made his solo debut at the Edinburgh Festival with his show, Turbulence. He has had solo tours and been tour support for Sarah Millican, Patton Oswalt and Joanne McNally. In 2018 he appeared at the 3 Arena in Dublin in front of 15,000 people as part of a star-studded show for Comic Relief and in 2023 embarked on a sold-out tour of UK and Ireland with Glamour Hammer.
What is the last thing you do before you go onstage (apart from check your flies and/or check your knickers aren't sticking out of your skirt and check for spinach between your teeth)
I usually remember something I have forgotten to do, that I now can’t do anything about, because I am about to do a show. Call my mother back, change the cats water, collect someone from the airport. Then I spend the whole show worrying about the thing I haven’t done. When I come off stage I will be on a high so forget what it was. Then the next day I’ll get a text from my mother telling me what a good son my brother is.
What irritates you?
It costs nothing to be nice. I’ve no patience for people who make the world a harder place to be. People who are negative or dismissive drive me crazy.
What is the most dangerous thing you have ever done?
I was filming a documentary in Africa and when I was going to bed in a cabin I realised there was a poisonous snake in my room. The most dangerous thing I have done is jump over a poisonous snake with my trousers half-off.
What is the most stupid thing you have ever done?
Depends who you ask. My parents would probably say giving up a pensionable job to be a comedian. I would not seeing my gorgeous cat for a whole month to go to Edinburgh. I once bought a small fridge on a Japanese website and when it arrived it was a wallet. That was quite embarrassing because I really needed a fridge and I already had a wallet.
What has surprised you the most during your career in comedy?
It’s true that in comedy you never know what is around the corner. I’m always surprised that this is how I make my living. I’m also surprised by how competitive comedians can be. It’s a surefire way to make yourself miserable and ruin what is the greatest job in the world.
Interview continues here
