Des Bishop

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Des Bishop still live in Ireland?

Des Bishop, the acclaimed comedian, has longstanding ties to Ireland, having spent much of his life and career there since moving from New York at age 14. While he remains closely associated with the Irish comedy scene and frequently performs across the country, Des Bishop no longer resides in Ireland full-time. In recent years, he has divided his time between Ireland and the United States, particularly New York, due to personal and professional commitments. His marriage to Chinese-American actress Hannah Berner has also influenced his living arrangements, resulting in a more transatlantic lifestyle. Despite not being a permanent resident, Bishop regularly returns to Ireland for shows, TV projects, and to connect with his extensive fanbase. His unique perspective as an Irish-American continues to shape his comedy, keeping him a fixture in Irish entertainment even if he no longer calls Ireland his sole home.

How long has Des Bishop been sober?

Des Bishop has been open about his journey with sobriety, making it a significant part of his comedy and public persona. He has been sober since the age of 19, which, given that he was born in 1975, means he has maintained his sobriety for over 25 years. Bishop frequently discusses his experiences with alcohol and addiction in his stand-up routines, using humor and honesty to connect with audiences dealing with similar issues. His path to sobriety began after he moved to Ireland as a teenager and recognized the impact alcohol was having on his life. Bishop's candidness about recovery has not only inspired fans but also helped destigmatize conversations about addiction in the comedy world. His long-term sobriety is a testament to his resilience and has undoubtedly contributed to his successful career and ability to tackle sensitive topics with empathy and wit.

Why does Des Bishop speak Mandarin?

Des Bishop speaks Mandarin as a result of his immersive approach to comedy and cultural exploration. In 2013, he moved to China to learn the language as part of a unique comedy project, which later became the acclaimed TV series "Des Bishop: Breaking China." Driven by curiosity and a desire to challenge himself, Bishop spent over a year in China, studying Mandarin intensively and performing stand-up comedy for Chinese audiences. His goal was to understand Chinese culture from the inside and bridge cultural gaps through humor. This ambitious project not only showcased his linguistic abilities but also his willingness to step outside his comfort zone for the sake of comedy. Bishop's proficiency in Mandarin has set him apart from other comedians, earning him international recognition and allowing him to connect with a broader audience. His journey learning Mandarin reflects his commitment to personal growth and the universal power of laughter.

Does Des Bishop have a special?

Yes, Des Bishop has released several comedy specials that have been highly praised by audiences and critics alike. Some of his most notable specials include "Des Bishop: Tongues," "Des Bishop: My Dad Was Nearly James Bond," and "Des Bishop: Made in China." These specials showcase his sharp observational humor and his unique ability to tackle serious topics with wit and empathy. Bishop's specials often draw from his personal experiences, including his upbringing in Ireland, his relationship with his late father, and his adventures learning Mandarin in China. His special "My Dad Was Nearly James Bond" is particularly celebrated for its heartfelt exploration of family and identity, blending comedy with emotional storytelling. Available on various streaming platforms and through live tours, Des Bishop's specials have solidified his reputation as one of the most innovative and engaging comedians of his generation.

What is Des Bishop famous for?

Des Bishop is famous for his groundbreaking stand-up comedy that blends personal storytelling with sharp social commentary. Renowned for his unique perspective as an Irish-American, Bishop has become a household name in Ireland and beyond. He gained widespread popularity with his TV series "The Des Bishop Work Experience," where he took on low-wage jobs to highlight social issues, and "Des Bishop: Breaking China," chronicling his journey learning Mandarin. Bishop is also celebrated for his honest discussions about sobriety, addiction, and family life, making his comedy both relatable and impactful. His ability to tackle complex cultural topics with humor and sensitivity has earned him a loyal fanbase. In addition to his television and stand-up work, Bishop's specials, such as "My Dad Was Nearly James Bond," showcase his storytelling prowess and emotional depth, cementing his status as one of the most respected comedians in the arts and theatre genre.