Interview: Rarely Asked Questions – John Thomson: Page 2 of 2

 What do your parents/children (delete as applicable) think of your job?
 
My parents and kids are proud of me and everything I've accomplished, however there are times, particularly in the privacy of my home when I question if I'm still funny, going on the honesty of their reactions.
 
What’s the worst thing about being a comedian?
 
Regarding live work the worst thing is the total unpredictability of a gig. So many factors to ruin your night. Lighting, sound, the room itself.... Despite the fact you might be “on fire" in your humble opinion you're never guaranteed a success. I've 'doubled up' on one occasion, died on my arse at the first gig, then smashed the second with an encore. Same material.
 
I think you are very good at what you do (that’s why I’m asking these questions). What do you think of you?
 
I personally undervalue my work, you'd be surprised I actually lack confidence in stand up. I'm often surprised when an audience loves my material. As I'm not a career comedian and do it so sporadically these days I feel that if the wheels aren't greased regularly I'm going to die. I now look back on old gigs, before a new gig, to give me the confidence to say "You know what, you're actually alright."
 
How much do you earn and how much would you like to earn?
 
I earn what I'm paid, I'm happy with that, if you accept in real terms what you have is enough, then you'll be happy, I don't chase money, I have job I love and to be paid for it too can only be seen as an absolute blessing, which I'm so grateful for.
 
How important is luck in terms of career success – have you had lucky breaks?
 
There is luck involved, but talent helps to be considered for the breaks to happen. My two luckiest breaks I consider to have helped my career immensely are being asked to be part of the ensemble in the Fast Show & being cast as Pete in Cold Feet.
 
Alan Davies has said that comedians fall into two categories - golfers and self-harmers. The former just get on with life, the latter are tortured artists. Which are you – or do you think you fit into a third category?
 
Bit of both really. I love a game of crazy golf, not the real thing, so I guess I'm literally a "crazy golfer". 
 
Who is your favourite person ever and why – not including family or friends or other comedians?
 
I don't have a favourite person, I'm very diplomatic, I'm more of a "people person" than a "person person" best way to be in my opinion.
 
Do you keep your drawers tidy and if not why not? (please think long and hard about this question, it's to settle an argument with my girlfriend. The future of our relationship could depend on your response).
 
I'm borderline OCD (I think) so every drawer is neatly stacked & everything has its place, particularly when it comes to clothing, however I do have "that drawer" in the kitchen, the miscellaneous one that goes against everything thing I've previously said.
 
But then again doesn’t everyone? Relationship saved?
 
Dying Laughing is in UK cinemas and On Demand 16th June www.dyinglaughingfilm.com

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