. . . with The 2 Johnnies
Tipperary natives Johnny B (O’Brien) and Johnny Smacks (McMahon) are better known as comedy duo The 2 Johnnies. Their sketches and songs are big on social media and in real life, with sold-out live shows in Dublin, UK and America. The 2 Johnnies’ new Irish tour, Get Loose, begins on February 1 in Sligo. How watch much every TV week? do you think you Johnny B: Not too much, but the Player is fair handy. Johnny Smacks: I’d try to watch two hours a day if I get the chance. If not I’ll be on the phone getting my daily x of East Enders. What were your favourite comedy shows growing up? Johnny B: The Den and Captain Planet, he was tough out.
Johnny Smacks: I loved Father Ted and The Panel on RTÉ – I used to be allowed up late to watch it. Is there just too much good TV now to watch it all? Johnny B: There’s good and bad! Johnny Smacks: There is, but that’s what the Catch Up and Sky Plus are for. Everyone binges on TV now so that’s a quick way to get through it. What are your unmissable shows right now? Johnny B: The Sunday Game.
Johnny Smacks: I’m addicted to The O ce and Extras – I’m a huge Ricky Gervais fan. How many times have you rewatched Tipp’s All-Ireland wins of 2010 and 2016? Johnny B: 2010 many a night, 2016 only 20 or 30 times. Johnny Smacks: 2016 was all a haze so I’ve watched that a few times. Also my family were on the telly that day for
What cameo show in? would you like a
Johnny B: Crimecall!
Johnny Smacks: Fair City. I’d love to be the best villain since Billy Meehan. Is YouTube the new television? Johnny B: For young people, yes, but there are still fantastic programmes on RTÉ – I especially like the documentaries. Johnny Smacks: We’re not long back from America and that’s how TV is viewed over there; I guess we will follow suit in Ireland. What shows do you watch the old-fashioned way, e.g. once a week at a particular time? Johnny B: GAA.
Johnny Smacks: I love East Enders and Love Island. I watch them religiously even when I’m away on tour. I know it’s a bit sad but I love it. Will you miss Michael Lyster now that he’s gone from The Sunday Game? Johnny B: Yes, he was the only man to negotiate the peace deal with Brolly and Spillane. Johnny Smacks: Yeah, Michael will be missed – it’s the end of an era. But it’s in safe hands now with Joanne (Cantwell). What huge watercooler show have you not seen? Johnny B: Love Island.
Johnny Smacks: I’ve never seen Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad or Narcos – I live a sheltered life!
For details of The 2 Johnnies tour, see the 2 johnnies.ie