‘This has been my everything for over a decade… being able to do it fresh and liberated again is amazing’: Edinburgh Fringe Q&A – Billy Kirkwood

Scottish comedian and radio presenter Billy Kirkwood returns to the Edinburgh Fringe after a health scare almost put the brakes on his career.

Having discovered a lump in his neck and being forced to have surgery, he’s more determined than ever to spread his frantic positivity and relentless comedic energy.

On the back of selling out at this year’s Glasgow International Comedy Festival, he brings new show Wild Thing along the M8.

Here, he answers our festival Q&A…

How are you feeling ahead of this year’s Fringe?

Very excited, as per I am entering the domain feeling like an unknown, so looking forward to giving folk a buzz when they find me.

What’s your show all about?

I guess it’s about sharing positivity energy… which sounds a lot fancier than I mean it too. There’s not sad bits, no narrative, it’s about embracing your inner weirdo and being positive about bouncing back from the constant barrage of life. It’s semi-improvised, it’s silly, often filthy, packed with stories no-one in their right mind should ever say on stage… with a nice little bit of nonsense and light entertainment chucked in.

How pleased are you to be back performing again after your recent health scare?

I’m so, so delighted. I was facing time off with the op but potentially facing a long or maybe even permanent lay-off if the op and results didn’t go my way. This has been my everything for over a decade, so being able to do it fresh and liberated again is amazing.

Has comedy helped you through the tough times recently?

Very much so, if nothing else I think using comedy to break the ice with people around you can help them relax and you relax when times get bad.

How does it feel to be part of a thriving Scottish comedy scene?

The scene is doing amazing just now, I’m just happy to be in the mix… get a big break… I’d even settle for a slight fracture.

If you were in charge of the Fringe, what changes would you make?

Support folks bringing shows – free parking for acts, bursaries they could then spend on flyering and producing shows with some guidance that would go back into the city.

A bigger spotlight on Scottish-based acts (not just Scots but here all year round) that doesn’t involve a few grand going to a PR company.

© Daryll Buchanan

What’s your favourite spot to visit in Edinburgh?

Easy, Grassmarket… Great on a sunny day, great on a rainy day. Pubs, amazing views and an old graveyard just a walk away… cause I’m an old goth at heart.

How have your previous experiences of the festival been – either as a visitor or performer?

Amazing, it’s an wonderous mixing pot of cultures, people, classes that you just don’t get concentrated like it. Bringing those groups together and laughing is epic.

What item is essential to survive a month at the Fringe?

Steak pie… done.

Who’d be your dream:

Podcast guest / co-host

It would have been Robin Williams… we lost Robin just before podcasts went mad again… I think we could have had some fun,

Wrestling tag team partner

A killer whale in a kilt. WHO is gonna mess with us!

Comedian to split a bill with

Former wrestler Mick FOley hit the Fringe a few years back,  I’d love to have a shot supporting him one last time. He was ace fun.

Who else are you looking forward to seeing at the festival?

Well loads of mates – who won’t plug me the scumbags! Kate Hammer, Pete Davidson (the other one), Danny O’Brien, Cal Halbert…..if there’s any other shows… I haven’t heard of them 🙂

What question would you ask other comedians in a Q&A – and why?

Should we have all tried harder in School?

Billy Kirkwood: Wild Thing, Beehive Inn, Grassmarket, Aug 2-26, 2.45pm