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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Entertainment
Edel Hughes

John Bishop praised for visiting Belfast to learn about the Troubles on Virgin Media show

Comedian John Bishop has been praised for his efforts to educate himself about the Troubles as he visited Belfast.

The Liverpudlian took the trip north on his Virgin Media Show John Bishop's Ireland.

Viewers saw him tour the Falls Road in one of Belfast's iconic black cabs while he discussed what life was like with the taxi driver who had lived and worked during the Troubles.

And the show took a more poignant turn after the driver picked up a passenger who told how her uncle became one of 'The Disappeared'.

As John was unfamiliar with the term, he asked the woman to explain and learned the tragic truth.

She said: "He was one of the disappeared.

"He was one of the men taken away by the IRA many years ago and he was shot dead, him and his friend and they were buried in the bogs for many years.

"He was 18 when that happened."

As well as visiting Belfast, John also travelled to Newry where he spoke to a local farmer about growing up during the Troubles and the challenges of Brexit.

Viewers praised John for his willingness to learn more about Northern Ireland and its history.

One said: "John Bishop does more for Northern Irish relations and gives a history lesson to the English like no other."

While another added: "Absolutely loved watching #johnbishopsireland on @VirginMedia_One.You're welcome back anytime."

John Bishop's Ireland chronicles the comedian's 600-mile road trip and tour around Ireland.

Viewers will see the 52-year-old visiting historic sites, learn Irish customs and perform his comedy in pubs and stadiums.

Bishop said: "Ireland holds a very special place in my heart and always has done, even before I started stand-up comedy.

"So to have the opportunity to travel around, meet local people, make them laugh and experience new things along the way has been a total joy."

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