40 Facts About John Bishop

Early Life and Background

John Bishop, a well-known comedian and actor, has an interesting background that shaped his career. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life.

1. Born on November 30, 1966, in Liverpool, England, John Bishop grew up in the suburb of Runcorn.
2. He attended Murdishaw West Primary School and later went to Brookvale Comprehensive School.
3. Before his comedy career, Bishop worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative.
4. He played semi-professional football for Hyde FC and Southport FC.
5. Bishop has a degree in Social Science from Manchester Polytechnic, now known as Manchester Metropolitan University.

Comedy Career

John Bishop's journey into comedy is as intriguing as his performances. Let's dive into some key moments and achievements in his comedy career.

6. Bishop's first stand-up performance was at Manchester's Frog and Bucket comedy club in 2000.
7. He won the North West Comedian of the Year Award in 2004.
8. His breakthrough came with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2009, where his show "Elvis Has Left the Building" received critical acclaim.
9. Bishop's 2010 tour, "Sunshine," sold out in record time, establishing him as a major comedy star.
10. He has released several successful stand-up DVDs, including "The Sunshine Tour" and "Rollercoaster Tour."

Television and Film

John Bishop's talents extend beyond stand-up comedy. He has made significant contributions to television and film.

11. Bishop made his television debut on the show "The Panel" in 2008.
12. He starred in the BBC One series "John Bishop's Britain," which aired from 2010 to 2011.
13. Bishop has appeared on popular shows like "Live at the Apollo," "Mock the Week," and "Have I Got News for You."
14. He played the role of Dan Lewis in the long-running sci-fi series "Doctor Who" starting in 2021.
15. Bishop has also acted in films, including "Route Irish" and "Ken Loach's Looking for Eric."

Personal Life

John Bishop's personal life is as colorful as his professional one. Here are some interesting facts about his life outside of comedy.

16. Bishop married his wife, Melanie, in 1993, and they have three sons: Joe, Luke, and Daniel.
17. He is an avid supporter of Liverpool FC.
18. Bishop is known for his charity work, including cycling from Paris to London to raise money for Sport Relief.
19. He has a keen interest in animal welfare and supports several animal charities.
20. Bishop once cycled across Australia to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Awards and Recognition

John Bishop's contributions to comedy and entertainment have earned him numerous awards and accolades.

21. He won the British Comedy Award for Best Male Comedy Breakthrough Artist in 2010.
22. Bishop received the GQ Men of the Year Award for Comedian of the Year in 2014.
23. He was nominated for the National Television Award for Most Popular Comedy Performer in 2011.
24. Bishop was honored with the Liverpool Echo Arts and Entertainment Award in 2012.
25. He received an honorary doctorate from Liverpool John Moores University in 2014.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond his career and personal life, there are some quirky and lesser-known facts about John Bishop.

26. Bishop once worked as a nightclub doorman in Manchester.
27. He has a passion for cycling and often participates in charity bike rides.
28. Bishop is a published author, with his autobiography "How Did All This Happen?" released in 2013.
29. He has a distinctive Scouse accent, which he often incorporates into his comedy routines.
30. Bishop is known for his quick wit and ability to engage with audiences of all ages.

Philanthropy and Activism

John Bishop is not just a comedian; he is also a dedicated philanthropist and activist.

31. He has raised millions of pounds for various charities through his comedy tours and personal challenges.
32. Bishop is a patron of the charity Claire House Children's Hospice.
33. He supports the Teenage Cancer Trust and has participated in numerous fundraising events for the organization.
34. Bishop is an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about his own experiences with depression.
35. He has campaigned for better support and resources for people with autism, inspired by his son Joe, who has the condition.

Fun Facts

To wrap up, here are some fun and light-hearted facts about John Bishop that you might not know.

36. Bishop once appeared on the cover of Men's Health magazine, showcasing his fitness transformation.
37. He has a cameo in the music video for the song "Love Love" by Take That.
38. Bishop is a huge fan of the TV show "Breaking Bad" and has mentioned it in several interviews.
39. He has a pet dog named Bilko, who often features in his social media posts.
40. Bishop enjoys cooking and has appeared on cooking shows like "The Great British Bake Off" and "Celebrity MasterChef."

Final Thoughts on John Bishop

John Bishop's life is a tapestry of comedy, philanthropy, and personal triumphs. From his humble beginnings in Liverpool to becoming a household name in British comedy, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Bishop's dedication to charity work, especially his efforts with Sport Relief, showcases his commitment to giving back. His stand-up specials and television appearances have brought laughter to millions, proving his talent and versatility. Beyond the stage, Bishop's personal stories of overcoming challenges resonate with many, making him a relatable and beloved figure. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, there's no denying the impact John Bishop has made in the world of comedy and beyond. His story reminds us that with passion, resilience, and a bit of humor, anything is possible.