Well known Irish-American comedian Des Bishop is in mourning today, due to the sad passing of his father, Michael, yesterday. His management have stated that, “It is with great sadness that… [we] can confirm that Des’s dad, Michael Bishop, has passed away earlier today.” Michael Bishop had been fighting a brave battle against terminal lung cancer since his shock diagnosis in November 2009, but has sadly lost the fight little more than a year on.
The signs weren’t looking good when his popular comedian son was forced to cancel a string of gigs within the past few days, which were due to take place in The Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin from Febuary 1 — 5. This cancellation prompted a spokesperson for the venue to state that, “Des’s dad has taken a turn for the worse. He is flying back to America now.”
Des and his dad, Michael
His current tour, My Dad Was Nearly James Bond, is a celebration of Bishop’s dad’s life both on and off screen, interspersed with Bishop’s trademark comedic style, and delves into the drama of Bishop’s near miss at playing James Bond on the silver screen. Michael appeared on stage at the end of every show during its run at Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which was critically acclaimed. The tour itself was also the subject of the documentary, In The Name of The Father, which aired on RTE 1 on January 27.
Management for Des have said: “We wish to confirm that the national tour of My Dad Was Nearly James Bond is postponed, until further notice.” Ticket holders are advised to contact their individual venues for any further information.
Des and his family have asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.
This was originally published on February 5, 2011.
Lead image: Des Bishop
Second image: Google Images
April Barry 