Whether you know him for his madcap antics, his reality TV appearances or his unique voice, Essex boy Joe Pasquale has earned his place as one of the nation’s favourite entertainers. Kate Everett caught up with Joe to hear what’s next in his 30-year showbiz career
It’s 30 years since the British public was introduced to comedian Joe Pasquale on the ITV talent show New Faces in 1987 and we have since seen him in everything from documentaries, TV shows and stage plays to taking the crown in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.
In 2018 Joe will celebrate three decades in showbusiness by bringing everything that is Joe Pasquale together in a brand-new stand-up tour, Joe Pasquale – A Few of his Favourite Things.
Famous for his ability to create laughter, multi-talented Joe will treat Essex audiences to a comedic mega mix of some of his best music, magic and mayhem, with a few new surprises promised on the way. So what can audiences expect from the show?
‘It’s got to be something pretty special,’ reveals Joe. ‘I’m taking the best of everything I’ve done on stage and television over the last 30 years and putting it into one show, but with a new twist. It’s designed to appeal to the inner child we all have, which means that anyone from five to 95 can come along and be guaranteed a great night with loads of laughs and everything from magic and music to mind reading.
‘I’ve just finished a tour playing Frank Spencer in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em and I will be going straight back on the road with this show. After learning and performing over 100 pages of dialogue as Frank, I’m looking forward to interacting with the audience and just having some fun being myself for a few weeks.’
Despite the fact that he’s never off stage or screen, Joe has seemingly boundless energy and has found time to set himself a series of personal challenges. He has overcome his fear of flying to take his pilot’s licence and is studying for an Open University degree in Earth Sciences.
‘I thrive on being busy,’ explains Joe. ‘Fitting in the study with my work schedule is tough, but I’m determined to finish my degree. I’ve really got into fitness too and I run every day. Those personal challenges keep my mind and body fit, and I’ve flown as far as France, which is an incredible feeling.’
In 30 non-stop years performing on stage and screen, I asked Joe if there was a particular highlight. His answer surprised me.
‘Doing the Muppet Show in Hollywood with Jon Voight and Brooke Shields was probably one of the most memorable moments of my career,’ recalls Joe. ‘I was standing there talking to Gonzo, thinking “This is surreal!”. I’ve been so lucky to have had so many incredible experiences and I just want to keep going, entertaining people and having fun along the way.’
