Michael Barrymore plans television comeback after decade away

Michael Barrymore plans television comeback after decade away

Michael Barrymore is planning a return to TV after a decade in the wilderness. 

The comic, 61, has been offered a drama role and is making a fly-on-the-wall documentary â€" as well as launching his own clothing brand named after his dog.

The recovering alcoholic, with hits including Strike It Lucky and My Kind of People, was dropped by ITV in 2001 after Stuart Lubbock, 31, was found dead in his pool. It destroyed his career.

Talking to the Mirror, he said: “I was offered something yesterday. It is actually for an acting part.

Michael took a break from television and survives on royalties from past shows

 

“I think the role will surprise people. It’s dark. When I read the script I was excited and got a good feeling about it. Acting’s my comfort zone. That’s what I grew up doing, but comedy took over.”

Michael says he currently survives on royalties from repeats of his 90s show Strike It Lucky. 

He said: “I am on most days on Challenge TV. It pays the rent.”

Michael recently took a job in a garden centre

 

Michael said that his Jack Russell Dave helped him through relapses. Speaking at the launch of his new bespoke clothing line Made By Dave, inspired by his pet, he explained:  “He has stuck beside me even through my relapse.” 

He added: “Launching the clothing range was incredibly nervy. But focusing on the business has kept me well and away from drugs and alcohol.”

The Mirror told how he had a garden centre job, earlier this year.

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