Graham Norton Opens Up in a Startlingly Honest Interview
Graham Norton, the celebrated comedian and broadcaster, has delivered a series of remarkably candid revelations in a new interview, shedding light on his personal quirks, past traumas, and professional reflections. The 63-year-old star, known for his quick wit and affable television presence, did not hold back as he discussed everything from his habitual lying to a life-threatening assault.
"I Lie All the Time": Norton's Startling Admission
When asked about the last lie he told, Norton responded with characteristic bluntness: "I lie all the time. It's probably been since we've been talking." This confession sets the tone for an interview that is refreshingly unvarnished, revealing a side of the entertainer that contrasts sharply with his polished on-screen persona.
A Brush with Mortality: The Stabbing Incident
Norton recounted the closest he has come to death, revealing a harrowing incident from his twenties. "I was stabbed in my 20s," he explained. "It was a late-night mugging and, while taking my wallet, they stabbed me in my chest." This traumatic event adds a sobering layer to the comedian's otherwise lighthearted public image.
Self-Deprecation and Personal Quirks
Never one to take himself too seriously, Norton offered a typically self-deprecating description of himself as an "old gay man" in three words. He also expressed particular disdain for his appearance, specifically his eyebags. "Oh my God, let's start with eyebags," he said. "I could get rid of them but I'm just too lazy, so instead I'll just moan."
His most unappealing habit? "There's a long list: nail-biting, nose-picking..." he admitted, trailing off with typical comedic timing.
Reflections on Fame and Career
When questioned about choosing between fame or anonymity, Norton referenced Billy Crystal's wisdom: "When people say to Billy Crystal, 'Oh, I wish I was rich and famous,' he always says, 'Try being rich first.' And I know what he means."
Regarding his greatest achievement, Norton expressed genuine surprise at his longevity: "Now that I'm at this end of my career, I'm gobsmacked that I've managed to cling on for as long as I have."
Regrets and Personal Life
Norton expressed remorse for his earlier comedic style: "Back in the day, when comedy was crueller, my monologues were full of terrible jokes about people, and you can't apologise because then you're asking people to forgive you. Your punishment is to walk around knowing you said these horrible things."
He described the greatest love of his life as "mother-slash-husband" (clarifying he's not married to his mother), and when asked who he'd most like to be if not himself, he simply said: "My dog." However, he remained protective of his pet's privacy: "He's not public facing. I'll acknowledge his existence, but that's it."
Professional Legacy and Personal Philosophy
Norton, who has won nine Baftas and hosts multiple successful shows including The Graham Norton Show and Eurovision, revealed an unconventional attitude toward his legacy: "I couldn't care less" about how he's remembered.
Born in County Dublin and trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Norton's career has spanned stand-up comedy, sitcom appearances (including Father Ted), television hosting, and writing three memoirs and five novels. He currently splits his time between London and West Cork with his husband.
