Jason Manford looked noticeably different as he showcased his impressive three stone weight loss on the ITV daytime programme Lorraine. The comedian appeared alongside musical theatre star Marisha Wallace to promote their upcoming comedy musical, Something Rotten!, which will tour across the United Kingdom.
Jason Manford's Weight Loss Journey
Manford attributed his transformation to padel, a racket sport, which he took up about 18 months ago. He admitted to becoming 'a bit obsessed' with the activity and forming a fitness group with other fathers. 'I've lost probably about three stone, I think, in around 18 months. I got into it, and then I got a bit obsessed with it, and we've got a little fitness group, me and a load of dads,' he explained.
He also had access to personal training and a nutritionist, but emphasised that the camaraderie with friends was crucial. 'But fundamentally, irrespective of being able to throw some money at it, actually, that WhatsApp group with me brother and a couple of mates, and just every so often posting a picture of, like, one of them has just done a run, or one of them, you know, we're all in the same boat, we're just trying, you need somebody else to just try and be there for you,' he added.
Struggles with Weight and Comedy
Manford reflected on his lifelong struggle with weight, noting moments when he struggled to fit into clothes or became breathless while playing with his children. He had previously incorporated his weight into his comedy routines, using self-deprecating jokes as a defence mechanism. 'I started to write jokes about being overweight – you can take the power away from the bully or the heckler – they were my defence,' he said, recalling being heckled at age 17 and given the nickname 'the fat Michael Owen'.
New Musical Project
Discussing Something Rotten!, Manford expressed his enthusiasm for blending comedy and musical theatre. 'Nobody goes out for a good think, you come out and have a laugh. I love musical theatre and I love comedy as well, and it's really hard to find funny musicals - this is hilarious!' he stated.
