MY LIFE GARY MCNAIR

Writer and performer Gary McNair has spent years bringing together stories about Billy Connolly from people all over Scotland recounting what he means to them. Gary put them together in a five-star show called Dear Billy, and now he is bringing the production to His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen from Thursday May 16 until Saturday May 18, and Eden Court in Inverness on Tuesday May 28 and Wednesday May 29. Tickets are available at aberdeenperformingarts.com and eden-court.co.uk

First record bought?

Fold Your Hands Child, You Walk Like A Peasant by Belle and Sebastian.

Book that changed your life? Life After God by Douglas Coupland.

Most expensive purchase?

I’ve just replaced my laptop after 14 years with my old one.

First job?

I was a paperboy for years but my first “proper job” was as a photo developer at Boots.

Favourite time of day? When I see my family.

Last time you cried?

I cry all the time but most recently was about a week ago when a song came on the radio my daughter used to sing when she was young. I was in bits.

Worst fashion faux pas?

I wear socks with Crocs which I’m told is a big no-no, but I don’t really care for fashion, I dress to be comfortable.

Favourite holiday destination? Portugal.

Idea of holiday hell? Somewhere you couldn’t get ice cream.

Biggest phobia? Being in the sea.

What you’re watching on TV? The British sitcom Bottom.

Favourite movie?

Little Miss Sunshine or The Muppet Christmas Carol, depending on the season.

How do you relax?

When I’m riding my bike, doodling pictures or watching rubbish TV with my wife.

Best advice you’ve had?

“We are here on Earth to fart around, don’t ever let anybody tell you any different” – Kurt Vonnegut.

Who did you last speak to on the phone?

My dear friend Joe.

First thing you did today? Helped my son dress as a bear.

Worst mistake?

I got a terrible haircut before I got my passport photo taken. That was a long 10 years.

Your inspiration?

I take a lot of my inspiration from music, chatting to people and being outdoors.

Would most like to meet? Michael Stipe.

Weirdest fan gift?

Luckily all the fan gifts I’ve received have all been quite nice and considerate.

Quirky habits?

Having multiple songs playing at the same time.

Worst meal?

I’m allergic to carrots so anything with carrot in it.

What makes you laugh?

Too many things to mention. I love to laugh.

Most embarrassing moment?

I don’t embarrass easily. However, I’m increasingly embarrassing my kids a lot these days.

Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?

Can I say neither...

Beauty is?

The smallest beetle, the biggest mountain, the sea, the air, all of it.

Gary is watching comedy heroes Rik Mayall and Ade Edmondson in Bottom.