‘Audiences are so happy to be out of the house!’
Comedian and panel show host Jason Manford on moaning, touring and making sure no one spoils his kids’ day
Showbiz all-rounder Jason Manford is back on our screens this week, hosting new show The Complaints Department on Comedy Central. The series sees Salfordborn Jason joined by comedians and celebrities, including Jimmy Carr and Sara Pascoe, as they explore and celebrate the wonders of the humble complaint, with a heavy injection of humour.
Since getting his break at a Manchester comedy club in 1999, Jason’s become a household name thanks to musicals,TV and stand-up work, such as his new Like Me tour.
Here, the 40-year-old chats about his new show and being a dad of six…
Hi Jason. Tell us about The Complaints Department…
Well, complaints are a great subject to talk about. We all have a complaint in us, and there are loads of observations and experiences people have had with complaining involved in the show, and you have to watch it with that in mind really. Obviously there are real-world complaints like clean water and free health care, but you have to put them to one side because on the show it’s complaints like the toilets not being clean at the service station.
Are you someone who complains about things?
I must say I’m pretty laid-back when it comes to complaining.
I’m more of someone who’ll complain to my wife about the food, the temperature, the service but then when the waiter comes over I’ll say everything is absolutely perfect. Then we don’t go there again!
I think that’s the British way really. We’re cowardly and we’ll say things are fine to your face then give it a one-star review on Trip Advisor.
Do you find yourself complaining more as a parent?
I complain much more as a parent and about more things. If something has spoilt my day then OK, fine, that’s life, but when it’s spoilt the kids’ day then it annoys me.
Is it tricky juggling your career and being a dad to six?
Well, like any parent juggling life and work it’s always difficult, but I just don’t separate the two really. Work is life and life is work and the kids have nice things because I go to work.
You were on – how was that?
The Masked Singer
I didn’t tell the kids – you’re not allowed to. But my daughter was watching and her pals were saying,“That’s your dad,”and she said,“I think I’d know if that was my dad.”When the mask came off she was fuming. How’s your tour going?
It’s been great. Audiences are so happy to be out of the house! It’s been a lot of fun.
The Complaints Department is on Monday at 9pm on Comedy Central
‘I didn’t tell the kids I was on The Masked Singer - you’re not allowed to’