Jon Richardson has set the record straight after he told fans he had quit comedy to pursue his dream career as a teacher. The 42-year-old is one of the UK’s best known comics and is renowned for his role as a panelist on 8 Out Of 10 Cats.
Fans were shocked yesterday when he claimed he had called time on his career as a comic. In a seemingly emotional update, he told his Instagram followers: “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. 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.”
He shared an excerpt of his old diary, adding: “I’ve been thinking a lot about a diary entry that I found from 1997. It’s this one. I was 14 years old, it says although I would love to be a stand-up comedian, I’ll probably end up being a teacher.
“And I’ve been thinking a lot about that. I’ve loved being a comedian, it was absolutely the right choice. But I’ve decided it would’ve been nice to try the other option, so that’s exactly what I’m gonna do.”
Jon then revealed he had accepted a position to become a teacher, adding: “I’ve been doing some training, I’ve taken a teaching position.”
He added: “I will update you as and when I can. but that’s all from me for now, just to let you know where I’ve been. I’ll keep you posted.”
His comedian friends took to the comments to wish Jon well after the update. Aisling Bea said: “OH MY GOD THE LUCKY CLASSROOM THAT GETS YOU JON BOY! X
Josh Widdicombe joked: “Comedy’s loss is teaching’s loss.” Romesh Ranganathan added: “You’re going to be brilliant mate x” However, Jon has now revealed it was an April Fool’s gag as he has actually joined the cast of Waterloo Road as a teacher.
An announcement issued this afternoon said: “Dear parents/guardians, You may have heard Jon Richardson is going through a huge career change.
The announcement added: “We’re pleased to share with you the newest addition to the #WaterlooRoad teaching staff. He’ll be joining us next term.”
People took to the comments in stitches after they were fooled by the joke. Comic Seann Walsh said: “Almost cried that one of my favourite comedians was retiring. An absolute stitch up!”
Pete Firman added: “An outstanding setup for the announcement.” A follower named Charlotte posted: “Bloody hell! I totally fell for this yesterday with your message, I couldn’t believe it. Thought the kids were lucky to have you ” Alison added: “Omg now I’m confused.”