‘I said, “I think I’m getting divorced’”: How John Bishop rescued his marriage — and turned the story into a Hollywood movie

The Everton comic recalls the joke that launched his stand-up career and ultimately saved his marriage – and why his wife was nervous about the upcoming film based on their story

Melanie Bishop and John Bishop attend the premiere of ‘ ‘Is This Thing On?’ in London. Photo: Getty

John Bishop remembers the first joke he ever told as a comedian. It happened on a weeknight in Manchester in October 2000, and there were six, maybe seven people in attendance.

Bishop – then a pharmaceuticals sales director – had thrown his name in the hat for an open mic night at the Frog and Bucket comedy club.