Gavin Meenan sits down with Al Foran to talk about the man behind the impressions and presenting. Al reflects on growing up in Portmarnock, his early love of film and television, and the family support that helped him pursue impressions as a career. He shares how he first went viral on YouTube in 2010, how a school intercom “Jedward” moment took off, and how he blended written material with improv in his earliest gigs.

The conversation also explores expanding beyond being one-dimensional, presenting with Ooch TV, covering major boxing events, and moments such as the Anthony Joshua press conference. Al opens up about a difficult experience with an Irish media company, navigating flat gigs, and learning not to get emotionally attached to outcomes. They discuss dealing with online hate, building resilience, the importance of kindness, and messages he has received from people whose mental health has been positively impacted by his content. Parenting, travel, fitness, and acting work in the BBC series Borders are also covered.

Show notes

Reflecting on the uncertainty of starting each new year as a self-employed person, especially with a family
Looking back on 2025 as a very positive year and expanding beyond being “one dimensional”
Growing up in Portmarnock and developing a love for TV, film, and performance
Strong family support, particularly from parents, including involvement in early videos
Early impressions performed at family events and celebrations
Performing a Robert De Niro impression in a primary school talent show
Developing core impressions inspired by classic films
Creating audition-style sketch content to refresh familiar impressions
Posting first YouTube videos in 2010 during Leaving Cert year
The “Jedward” impression going viral locally
First live gig in Portmarnock Sports & Leisure Centre
A school intercom prank convincing students Jedward were visiting the school
Leaving a major Irish media company after feeling creatively stifled
Learning to cope with flat gigs and not becoming emotionally attached to outcomes
The COVID period: Zoom gigs, podcasts, and time with family
Dealing with online criticism and focusing on the minority of negative comments
Receiving messages from people whose mental health improved through the content
Balancing content creation with parenting two young children
Covering major boxing events with Ooch TV, including international press conferences
Touring with Tyson Fury and discussing his impact on boxing
Future ambitions in entertainment presenting, press junkets, and red carpets
Acting work in the BBC series Borders

Memorable quotes

“There always is a sense of apprehension that starts every new year for me.”
“I kind of broke away from being an internet comedian and impersonator.”
“It was a natural thing, but it was a natural thing that you had to work on constantly.”
“2010. The year I did my Leaving Cert.”
“Jedward was the one that caught on.”
“A swarm of girls ran towards the front office to see if John and Edward were there.”
“The other hour was improv… just on the spot.”
“I was stifled creatively… it wasn’t good.”
“Just don’t become emotionally attached to it.”
“It’s the two or three that you pick out of the 150.”
“I’ve always prided myself on having manners and treating people with respect.”
“That gives you a new sense of purpose around the work.”
“This too shall pass.”
“Enjoy the chase. There’s nothing like the chase for success.”