Ever wondered what it takes to run a marathon? Eddie Izzard, the iconic comedian and actor, has not only run one but has conquered over a hundred! In a recent interview, Izzard opens up about his experiences, from the stage to the streets, offering a glimpse into his world of comedy, acting, and endurance. Let's dive in!
When asked about his approach to Shakespeare's iconic lines in his one-woman Hamlet, Izzard reveals an unexpected ease. He felt 'at home' while rehearsing, a stark contrast to the expected trepidation. He says, "But the first time I performed 'to be or not to be' on stage, there was a sense of – aren’t bells supposed to ring here? Isn’t there supposed to be a klaxon?" This comfort allows him to bring a fresh perspective to the classic play. He adapts the delivery of the lines each night. Izzard's background as a street performer shines through, as he connects with the audience in a way that echoes Shakespeare's time.
But here's where it gets controversial... Izzard shares his unpopular pop culture opinion: he believes George Lazenby did a great job as James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. While some disagree, Izzard's love for the film, and the tragic ending, is clear. He also mentions the Remix tour, where he revisits some of his most beloved stand-up routines. The Death Star Canteen routine, for example, gets a makeover. He embraces the unexpected, even when things go wrong, as he shared with the Monty Python guys. He adds that Daphne du Maurier will turn up in the Death Star canteen and she’s going to do a sequel to The Birds.
Speaking of the unexpected, Izzard reflects on the Evil Giraffe. He notes how much people loved the concept of an evil giraffe. He likes the idea of a giraffe with a pencil-thin moustache.
And this is the part most people miss... When asked about the toughest marathon, Izzard recalls the treadmill marathons and a particularly challenging run in Northern Ireland. He miscalculated the distance, which made the final six miles even more grueling. He also mentions the double marathon in South Africa, where he ran 90km in just under 12 hours. It was a tough day.
Beyond comedy and running, Izzard reveals a hidden talent: sword fighting. He has a sword fight against himself in Hamlet. He was a sword fighter in Covent Garden for a couple of years.
Izzard also discusses his fashion choices, including a memorable coat from his Definite Article special. During a performance, a button fell off, and he sewed it back on in real-time.
Onstage disasters are inevitable. He recalls a flooded theatre with a single light, leading to impromptu ghost stories. In another instance, he used his phone light to tell ghost stories.
In the show Hannibal, Izzard's character, Abel Gideon, was made to eat mushrooms that looked like snails. He loved sparring with Mads Mikkelsen.
As for celebrity encounters, Izzard shares a positive experience with Brad Pitt at the Ocean's 13 premiere. He was included in a group photo.
Finally, Izzard reflects on his 'nemesis,' though not in the traditional sense. He notes that his career took off as Margaret Thatcher's career slowed down.
What do you think? Do you agree with Izzard's take on George Lazenby as Bond? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Izzard's Hamlet is on at the Sydney Opera House 9-21 June, then Arts Centre Melbourne 30 June - 12 July. Her Remix tour is also touring Australia 6-16 May.
