Sue Perkins: An hour or so with... 19: Alan Davies
Jul 29, 2020
In this engaging conversation, Alan Davies, renowned stand-up comedian and actor, shares insights from his memoir, 'Just Ignore Him'. He reflects on his Arsenal fandom rooted in sibling rivalry and recalls childhood experiences that shaped his comedic voice. Alan discusses the challenges of performing, from severe stage nerves to the joy of physical comedy. He emphasizes the importance of creativity for mental health and considers the complexities of fame. Their laughter-filled banter delves into candid anecdotes about his life and career.
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Early Loyalties Stay Fixed
- Davies notes fandom and early attachments are permanent markers of identity, like favorite bands or teams.
- These loyalties persist even without ongoing engagement or new material.
The Chicken And The Rat Colony
- Alan describes moving into a house that came with a chicken and a rat colony living in the shed and run.
- He tried poison and found two rats, concluding there were several living under the chicken run and house.
Performance As Replacement For Maternal Attention
- Davies realises performing gave him a captive audience that mirrored the devotion of a mother's attention after her death.
- He later connected his need for audience devotion to unresolved childhood loss.
