Latest news with #comedian
Irish Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Riona O Connor: ‘I was counting points on Weight Watchers when I was 15'
'Skip the bread, get ahead.' 'Summer bodies are made in winter.' 'Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.' Just thinking about slogans such as these makes Riona O Connor shudder. 'My brain is horrible,' the Kerry-born comedian says over a video call from her home outside London, as she reflects on the words beamed to her over the years from television shows, women's magazines and celebrity interviews. READ MORE 'My brain is a sh*t storm. The line 'Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels' – I bought that hook, line and sinker. But I share that with a lot of people because we were brought up in the 1990s with diet culture.' No more. These days, O Connor still hears prescriptive media messaging, particularly in summer, but she doesn't let it dictate to her. In defiance of Instagram 'thinspiration' beauty standards, O Connor has become famous for her photos and videos on the social media platform where she poses in a bikini or swimsuit but does not contort herself to suck fat in or twist her body to find sharper angles or use filters to smooth out wrinkles. O Connor faces forward and speaks frankly, persuasively and hilariously to her followers about her body, and the ridiculousness of not just wearing a bikini or swimsuit whenever you want to wear one, without feelings of shame or insecurity. O Connor is sparky, funny and warm. She has more than a million followers on her social media platforms. She receives constant feedback from fans who appreciate the empowerment messages she's offering, particularly now the pendulum seems to have swung back from a period in the 2010s where body positivity and 'glow-ups' were in vogue, to a new era where #SkinnyTok is driving the agenda to such a degree that European regulators recently convinced TikTok to ban the term as a search option. 'I do so many different things – sketches and comedy – and it just seems that, for whatever reason, me talking about how my brain works in a bikini seems to be resonating with a lot of people,' she says. 'I didn't realise people were so self-punishing. I thought people were a lot further down the road. But apparently we're all trying to figure this out together.' Riona O Connor. Photograph: Lissette Arenas O Connor is a graduate of LIPA, the performing arts institution in Liverpool co-founded by Paul McCartney. A talented singer, she arrived in England with the dream of making it in musical theatre. She landed a role in Roddy Doyle's The Commitments in the West End in 2013. But the long days and nights of musical theatre were incompatible with raising a family: O Connor has two young sons. 'It's eight shows a week, six out of seven nights. I didn't want that lifestyle.' So she turned to social media. 'It started off with me wanting to scratch the itch and sing and do sketches and share that part of myself. I started writing songs, and a lot of those songs were about the pressure to bounce back after you have a baby, and how I felt that pressure.' Growing up in Tralee, O Connor was often on a diet. 'I never had a little bum or small legs. I never fitted into that paradigm of what makes you, quote unquote, 'attractive'. I was counting points on Weight Watchers when I was 15. I was doing Slimming World. I didn't lose a pound at Slimming World because I wasn't weighing the potatoes.' She laughs. 'My ancestors were survivors. Our DNA said, 'Hang on to every bit of fat, you're going to need it to get through the war'.' [ Summer bodies: Your body is not a 'before'. It's not a problem to be solved Opens in new window ] But a point came when she realised enough was enough. She didn't want her energy taken up with worrying about food or weight. And she didn't think other people needed to be so burdened either. 'Have you ever done exposure therapy?' she asks. 'I originally did exposure therapy for my arachnophobia, because it was so horrendous. But in the live shows I do, I do a whole section on exposure therapy.' In this case, the 'exposure' is O Connor putting on a bikini and learning that the world continues to turn. 'We discover in the show: nobody's dying at the sight of my size. Everyone is alive: everyone is okay,' she says, laughing. 'It's just a person in a bikini, it's just a body. Exposure therapy is the way forward: the more we see people in different bodies, the less we're going, 'Oh my God, they're so brave!'' No matter what any algorithm spams you with, says O Connor, you can train yourself towards a healthier self-image and it will bring benefits. 'The voice is there, but you don't have to listen to it. I've found [being] brutally vulnerable and honest about my body is freeing. It's given me confidence because I don't have to pretend to be something I'm not.' Follow Riona O Connor on Instagram @rionaoconnor_ and , where details for her spring 2026 shows in Ireland will soon be announced. The helpline is at 01-2107906, or email alex@
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Star Fred: I won't let prostate cancer diagnosis get me down
Scots comedian Fred MacAulay has revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The 68-year-old stand-up comic said he 'took the hint' and began getting regular tests after his father and brother were both diagnosed with the disease. But despite not having any symptoms, doctors recently told him the devastating news that he also has it. His diagnosis comes just months after six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy revealed his prostate cancer was terminal, having also had 'zero symptoms'. The comedian and radio presenter will now join Sir Chris's charity cycle in September to raise awareness, as he vowed not to let the illness stand in his way. He said: 'I'm determined not to let a prostate cancer diagnosis get me down. I've even managed to stay away from the internet because I'd just scare myself to death. 'Instead, I'm putting my trust in my doctors, and comforting myself in the knowledge that I've been diagnosed very early which means I should have the best chance for a good outcome.' And the father-of-three urged other men to 'get checked out' after admitting it was not until his father and older brother were diagnosed he 'actively decided I'd better do something to explore whether I was also at risk'. Mr MacAulay's father, also Fred, died at the age of 73 in 2002 after years of battling prostate cancer and mesothelioma. The comedian said: 'It was the mesothelioma which got Dad in the end, he worked on the railways and was exposed to asbestos and all kinds of nasty stuff before he became a policeman until he retired. 'But when my brother Duncan, who is 72 now, was diagnosed with prostate cancer eight years ago, I thought it was about time I took the hint and got checked out. 'When it became clear I'm more at risk because of the prevalence of prostate cancer in my family, I've been getting tested every couple of years.' It was only after his last tests a few weeks ago that doctors contacted him to advise him that further action was needed. He told the Sunday Post: 'Although I've not had any symptoms, the final tests came back positive just a few days ago and I am waiting to see what the medical team advise is my next step.' Mr MacAulay has been forced to cancel his Edinburgh Fringe shows and tour, but he still plans to join Sir Chris at the Tour De 4 in Glasgow, for the 56-mile bike ride on September 7 to raise awareness for Prostate Cancer UK at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome. He said: 'I hope by speaking up this will encourage other men to get checked out too. It could save their lives. 'It's always been a scary thing to talk about, but with all the progress in medicine the best thing to do is be aware, get tested and catch it quickly as it gives you the best possible chance of beating it.' He hailed Sir Chris, who has dedicated his time to raising awareness of the disease, as 'such an inspirational figure in the fight against prostate cancer' and described him as 'a true hero.' The cycling great announced last year that he was given between two and four years to live after being told his cancer had spread to his bones. He sparked a massive campaign to encourage men to get checked for the condition, partnering with the charity Prostate Cancer UK to provide an online risk-checker. Since then, more than 180,000 men have used it and following tests more than 1,000 have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and are receiving treatment.
Fox News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Adam Friedland on why comedians should focus on being funny, not becoming 'modern-day philosophers'
Comedian and talk show host Adam Friedland has been turning heads online with his unique version of talk television on "The Adam Friedland Show." There, he turns the heat up on his guests in hilarious fashion, never shying away from the sometimes uncomfortable questions on everyone's minds. Friedland sat down with Fox News Digital and broke down why he believes comedians shouldn't be looked at as "modern-day philosophers" as they sometimes are, and why taking yourself too seriously as a comedian may not be the right move if your focus in life is to make people laugh. The 38-year-old comedian hosts a weekly talk show where he interviews a wide range of guests — from politicians like California Rep. Ro Khanna and disgraced former Congressman Anthony Weiner, to former NBA star Blake Griffin and the Nelk Boys' Aaron Steinberg. Regardless of who you are or what you do, one thing you can count on when you go on Friedland's show is that he will test your wit and ask you uncomfortable questions. For example, when interviewing Anthony Weiner, the comedian did not shy away from addressing the elephant in the room. "You haven't seen the documentary, right? About your run for, I mean, I imagine that would be like f-----g stressful as f--- for you to watch it," he asked, referencing the 2016 documentary "Weiner" that depicted the former congressman's disastrous 2013 bid for New York City mayor. Like his stint in Congress, his run was blown up by a sexting scandal that made him a national punchline. "I'll say this, as a person that just watched it, it's incredible," he told Weiner. Friedland's never-ending bits typically fly over the heads of the unsuspecting celebrities or politicians on the show, making for hilariously awkward interactions. Fox News Digital asked Friedland whether he believes guests like Weiner are aware that they are submitting to be put in uncomfortable positions like this before coming on his show. "Probably. Anthony Weiner is running for city council now so he's trying to relaunch a campaign. I think sometimes a lot of guests don't really know what to make of me, which is fun," he replied. "It makes a fun show." Since Friedland's interview with Fox, Weiner lost his city council bid. It is becoming more commonplace to see prominent politicians like President Donald Trump and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., making appearances on comedians' podcasts. The line between political media and comedy podcasts can sometimes seem blurry. While Friedland admits that he's always been interested in politics and occasionally hosts politicians on his show, he's upfront with the fact that his main objective is to "just do what's funny," and not take himself too seriously. "I guess comedy is having a good moment right now. I don't think it should be one or the other though. I think we should have the media. I do jokes on stage about Tinder and stuff. I don't think that makes me into Wolf Blitzer," he joked. The comedian noted that nowadays, comedians are sometimes "looked to as authorities in a way" in which they are not. "I try to kind of be mindful of that, I guess, when I'm doing my talk show." He joked, "Because I am kind of, effectively, I am an idiot." One of Friedland's favorite comics growing up, Norm Macdonald, had similar feelings about comedians being looked at as sage-like figures. "You know, Norm Macdonald had a quote once that said that people say comedians are like modern-day philosophers, and that's really insulting to modern-day philosophers. And I think I would probably agree with that," he concurred. Growing up, Friedland's favorite comedians were the type of people whose main objective was simply humor, and never aspired to be looked at as "modern-day philosophers." They also include comedy icons like Louis C.K., Kat Williams and Conan O'Brien, whom Friedland credits with inspiring the loose and "silly" atmosphere on his show.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE How Joe Rogan became the world's richest podcaster: As he lounges on a £480k-a-week yacht, TOM LEONARD reveals secrets behind former delivery man's empire - and exactly how much he makes
A wise public figure would surely think twice these days before allowing themselves to be caught swanning around the Med on an ostentatious, fuel-guzzling, money-burning superyacht. Especially if the celebrity in question is 'man-of-the-people' commentator and comedian Joe Rogan, who didn't become the world's most popular podcaster without developing a reputation for no-frills authenticity and relatability.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
YURIYAN RETRIEVER Talks Debut Solo Single & Ambition to Become a Genre of Her Own
YURIYAN RETRIEVER has carved out a unique position in Japanese entertainment as a prize-winning comedian, Netflix star, voice actor, TV/radio personality and occasional rapper. The versatile entertainer is now adding solo recording artist to her long list of titles, kicking off her latest endeavor with a debut single called 'YURIYAN TIME.' The catchy new track was co-written by yonkey, producer of ATARASHII GAKKO!'s hit singles 'OTONABLUE' and 'Suki Lie,' based on the things Yuriyan currently has to say or is angry about. The 34-year-old multi-hyphenate — whose stage name as a singer is stylized in all caps — has been based in the U.S. since last fall, and she chatted with Billboard Japan about her new single and future as an artist in this new interview. First, tell us about your musical history. Did you always like listening to music? More from Billboard K-pop Rules as Netflix's 'KPop Demon Hunters' Soundtrack Holds ARIA No. 1 Max McNown Expands 'Night Diving' With 11 New Songs: Stream It Now Flume Teams With Emma Louise for New Collaborative Album, 'DUMB' Yes. When I was in elementary school, I dreamed of becoming a comedian someday, but also always wanted to join (J-pop girl group) Morning Musume. I have a sister who is two years older than me and used to borrow Avril Lavigne and Britney Spears CDs from her when I was in junior high. As soon as I got home from school, I'd spend time playing those CDs and looking at the lyrics on the liner notes. I lived in a rural area, so there was nowhere to go after extracurricular activities and my only pastime was to sing (at home). I think the first CD I bought was Sum 41's Chuck (2004). I thought they looked cool, so I bought it even though I didn't know their songs. In high school, I was pretty much into (dance and vocal group) EXILE. I met someone I liked in my senior year and he loved EXILE. I wanted him to notice me, so I put a boombox in my bag and listened to EXILE during lunch time close to where he was hanging out. I imagine the battle rap show was also a turning point for you. I'd never rapped before that show. [Japan's top hip-hop artists coached participants with no prior rapping experience to eventually face off in freestyle.] I was in a street dance club in college, and hip-hop is my favorite genre. I like Morning Musume and J-pop and band music, but hip-hop in particular really gives me a boost. You can say what you want through rhymes, and be like, [says in English] 'This is exactly what I wanna do!' It makes me stronger. Honestly, I like freestyle battling because my opponent will eventually forget what I said during a bout and by the time I get home, I never remember what they said, either. Later on, I was invited to rap on Awich's 'Bad Bi*** Bigaku Remix.' When I was listening to the recording of the track on the Shinkansen bullet train, it was so soul stirring that my eyebrows began to rise and I found myself glaring at the people around me, like, 'Just you wait and see, got that?' Even though everyone was just peacefully eating their lunches and stuff. [Laughs] How did that eventually lead to your debut as a solo recording artist? I often talk with my manager about what I want to become. I just say stuff without thinking at all about practicalities, so one day I said, 'I want to be like Ariana Grande.' And my manager was like, 'Let's talk to Universal about that.' Then I found myself in a meeting with them, and yonkey agreed to work on a song with me and… My life is being assembled through low-key 'Then we'll help you be like that' 'Cool, I'll do it' turn of events, but it's still hard to believe. So things worked out quicker than you expected. What do you like so much about Ariana Grande? Just hearing that Ariana is going to do something is exciting, isn't it? I don't want this to be like, 'Oh, YURIYAN RETRIEVER (the comedian) is releasing a song.' I want people to know that there's someone called YURIYAN RETRIEVER in this world. I remember talking about how it'd be great if YURIYAN's existence would spread and she's reimported back to Japan. I'm really happy that people recognize YURIYAN RETRIEVER as a comedian, but while that's my foundation, I don't want to set any limits. In the end, I want to become a genre called 'Yuriyan Retriever.' What thoughts went into 'YURIYAN TIME'? yonkey put together the thoughts and feelings that I sent him to make it into a song that introduces me. Like, 'This is the kind of person I am, so shut your trap.' The message is, 'People may say all kinds of things about me, but this is who I am so just shut up,' and yonkey expressed it in a pop, yet powerful way. I have fun singing it and it cheers me up. The lyrics are full of things that have made me who I am today. For example, the word 'bigaku' (aesthetics) comes from Awich's 'Bad Bi*** Bigaku Remix,' and my life changed a lot after playing the professional wrestler Dump Matsumoto in Netflix's The Queen of Villains, so yonkey included her name. Also (physical trainer) Tomo Okabe, who helped me with my body building. I owe her my life. The song is really like a series of flashbacks of my life so far. The way the song suddenly shifts to an enka-like melody [enka is a genre of Japanese popular ballads] is striking. It was exciting how such a cool, uptempo song suddenly becomes enka-like and I was like, 'yonkey, you're too good!' It reminds me of Kill Bill in that it sounds like it's joking but it's being done in an exquisitely cool way, and I'm so pleased about that. How do you feel now that you've made your debut as a solo recording artist? I never imagined… I still find it hard to believe. I'd first like to thank the people at Universal Music Group for saying, 'Let's do it together' when I went to them and said something nuts like, 'Excuse me, I want to be Ariana Grande.' Right now, [says in English] 'I'm in Los Angeles,' so I want to perform at Coachella! That's a dream of mine, and I hope we can make it there together. I do want to be Ariana Grande, of course, but from now on I want to be like a circus, not someone who is like another person. I want to be a one-woman art collective, not just a comedian or a rapper. I'm not making sense anymore [Laughs], but I hope to be a fun person. Your debut track is sung in Japanese, but considering you're based in the U.S. now, can we expect to hear English songs from you in the future? Kim Kardashian's daughter North West raps in Japanese on a song she's featured in, and I was like, 'Maybe the Japanese language will become a trend.' I'm open to performing in English eventually, but since I'm in the U.S., I thought it'd be nice if people took interest in Japanese and tried to sing it. Like the way I wanted to sing Britney's songs back in junior high although I didn't understand what was written on the liner notes, it'd be great if people take interest in singing in Japanese even if they don't understand it, because they find it cute and interesting, and the song is fun and cool. Lastly, what kind of person would you say YURIYAN is? I'd say she's more than a handful. [Laughs] This interview by Atsuo Nagahori first appeared on Billboard Japan. Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart Solve the daily Crossword
