Comic Tiernan declares satirist O'Brien as father of Irish comedy

Legendary satirist Flann O’Brien is the father of Irish comedy, one of the country’s top comics declares in a major new celebration of the writer’s work.

Tommy Tiernan insists the explosion of Irish comics who have captured world attention over the past decade owe much of their material to the Co Tyrone-born writer.

The stand-up funnyman from Navan is among several top comedians, writers and actors who reveal their debt to the legendary satirist in a television programme to be aired on Easter Sunday.

The Third Policeman’s Ball brings together many leading lights from the world of Irish arts and showbusiness to confirm O’Brien’s reputation as a comic genius.

“(Flann was) the father of modern Irish stand-up. He was an amazing generator of comic ideas,” Tiernan tells the programme, which goes out on TV3.

Senator David Norris presents the 90-minute special recorded in Dublin’s Vicar Street which features comic vignettes and stand-up comedy routines inspired by the celebrated writer and columnist.

One half of the D’unbelievables Jon Kenny and fellow comics Barry Murphy, Kevin Gildea and John Lynn act out extracts of O’Brien’s work during the one-off show.

Actors Stephen Rea and David Kelly will also pay their tributes while renowned novelist Pat McCabe performs his own adaptation from his favourite O’Brien piece.

Friend and biographer Anthony Cronin shares memories of his time spent with the author of acclaimed novels An Beal Bocht, At Swim Two Birds and the Third Policeman.

Born Brian O’Nolan in Strabane in 1911 the influential writer was also famed for his satirical columns in the Irish Times under the name Myles na gCopaleen.

His reputation as a major figure in 20th century Irish literature has grown in recent times.

Programme producer Anne Marie Naughton hopes the television celebration will bring his work to a younger generations.

“The original idea is to take a fresh, contemporary look at Flann’s work through the eyes of well-known comedians, actors and other commentators and to bring his work to a whole new audience,” she said.