Lembit stands up to O’Hanlon’s dig
COLOURFUL former MP Lembit Opik has responded to Father Ted star Ardal O’Hanlon for his public criticism of Opik’s attempt to launch a stand-up career.
As we recently revealed, O’Hanlon, best known for his portrayal of the hapless Dougal, claimed the ex-MP ’s bid to become a stand-up was “disrespectful” to the genre. Now Lembit, 45, has defended himself.
Opik, who made his stand-up debut last month, reveals that he is now paying to have private tuition in order to improve his performances, which have so far received negative reviews.
“I agree with Ardal’s analysis of the craft,” he says. “That’s why my act is so hit and miss. It’s also why I’ve now asked for tuition.
“If stand-up was easy people wouldn’t pay to see top comedians like Ardal doing their stuff.”