Jon Richardson quits comedy to pursue surprisingly normal dream job

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While becoming a comedian was once all Jon Richardson ever wanted, he’s now decided to pursue another passion.

The stand-up comedian recently took a break from the industry, which made him reevaluate his life and where he wants to be.

Consequently, he’s decided to lengthen his showbiz hiatus and become a teacher.

Taking to Instagram today, the 42-year-old began in a video message: ‘I just thought I’d give you a little update. I don’t really do social media updates, and I’ll tell you why, because I don’t think anyone cares!

‘But I have a little bit of news…’

He continued: ‘I’ve obviously been taking a little bit of a break from stand-up and it’s really made me want to carry on taking a break from stand-up.

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 17: Jon Richardson attends the absolute radio live show at London Palladium on November 17, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images for Bauer) — Jon Richardson is taking an extended break from comedy after more than two decades in the public eye (Picture: Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images for Bauer)

‘I’ve been thinking a lot about a diary entry I found from 1997.’

The handwritten entry from when Jon was 14 then flashed on the screen, reading: ‘I’ve decided that although I’ll probably end up being a teacher, I’d love to be a comedian.’

Jon continued to his 187k followers: ‘I’ve loved being a comedian, it was absolutely the right choice. But I’ve decided that it would’ve been nice to try the other option, so that’s exactly what I’m gonna do.’

He went on to reveal that he’s been training and has taken on a teaching position.

‘I will update you as and when I can,’ he vowed, ‘but that’s all from me for now, just to let you know that’s where I’ve been. I’ll keep you posted.’

The TV star was quickly inundated with supportive messages from both fans and fellow comics.

Programme Name: Would I Lie To You? - TX: n/a - Episode: n/a (No. 3) - Picture Shows: Olivia Colman, David Mitchell, Aston Merrygold, Rob Brydon, Jon Richardson, Lee Mack, Michaela Strachan - (C) Endemol Shine UK - Photographer: Brian Ritchie — The comedian has appeared on countless TV shows over the years (Picture: BBC/Endemol Shine UK/Brian Richie)

In typically witty fashion, Josh Widdicombe commented: ‘Comedy’s loss is teaching’s loss’.

‘OH MY GOD THE LUCKY CLASSROOM THAT GETS YOU JON BOY! X’, declared Aisling Bea.

Laura Smyth wrote: ‘Congrats!! Lucky kids! – I’m hoping a career in teaching will make you want to do stand-up! ❤️’

Meanwhile, @spinninalb said they were ‘gutted’ as Jon is their ‘favourite comedian’, however, they are wishing him luck in his ‘new chapter’.

‘You have to do exactly what’s right for you, Jon. Good luck with everything ❤️’, echoed @jo.madeley68.

Lancaster-born Jon took his first baby steps into comedy after leaving university and working as a chef, after which he opted for the stand-up route and lived with Russell Howard, Mark Olver, and John Robins for a year in Bristol.

Pr handout: Comedian Jon Richardson - please credit Andy Hollingworth — One of Jon’s childhood ambitions was to become a teacher, which he is now pursuing (Picture: Andy Hollingworth)

He got his big break when he won his heat of the BBC New Talent Comedy Search in 2003, with his shows going on to receive glowing reviews.

Jon has since toured the UK with his gigs, hosted on both BBC and Absolute Radio, and appeared on countless TV panel shows.

He’s best known for his jokes on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Have I Got News for You, and Would I Lie To You?

Jon has also worked extensively with his wife, Lucy Beaumont, having previously acquired their own show, Meet the Richardsons. They announced their separation in 2024 after nine years of marriage.

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Jon Richardson quits comedy to pursue surprisingly normal dream job

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