Jon Richardson Announces Career Shift: Quits Comedy for Teaching
In a surprising move that has resonated across the entertainment sphere, comedian Jon Richardson has revealed his departure from the world of comedy to pursue a new vocation in teaching. The TV personality, a familiar face on British television for many years, shared the news of his career change, indicating a desire to embrace a different path away from the limelight.
Stand-Up Star Opts for Classroom
Richardson, 42, communicated his decision in a social media update on Monday, March 31st. In an informal video posted online, he explained his recent absence from stand-up comedy and disclosed his contemplation about his future direction. “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 stated, hinting at a more profound shift in his professional life.
Reflecting on his aspirations, Richardson referenced a diary entry from his youth. “I’ve been thinking a lot about a diary entry that I found from 1997,” he disclosed before displaying the excerpt on screen. He quoted from his 14-year-old self: “‘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,” he added, underscoring the long-held consideration of this alternative career path.
‘Bombshell’ Announcement: Embracing a New Profession
In what he described as a significant announcement, Richardson declared, “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.” He further revealed that he had not only completed teacher training but had also secured a teaching job.
“I’ve taken a teaching position,” the former comic confirmed. “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.”
Decision Follows Divorce from Lucy Beaumont
This career transition follows Richardson’s recent divorce from fellow comedian Lucy Beaumont, announced in April of the previous year after nine years of marriage. The couple, who wed in April 2014 and share an eight-year-old daughter, Elsie, had become prominent figures in the comedy scene, particularly with their popular sketch show, ‘Meet The Richardsons’, which premiered in 2020.
Joint Statement on Separation
The news of their separation surprised many, given their public profile as a comedy power couple. At the time of their split, they released a joint statement: “We have jointly and amicably made the difficult decision to divorce and go our separate ways.” Emphasizing their child’s welfare, they added, “As our only priority is managing this difficult transition for our daughter, we would ask that our privacy is respected at this sensitive time to protect her well-being. We will be making no further comment.”
Divorce Settlement Concluded
Reports suggest that Richardson and Beaumont have finalized their divorce proceedings, with Richardson reportedly providing Beaumont a substantial financial settlement for her shares in a joint company. The former couple had amassed a considerable fortune before the dissolution of both their personal and professional partnership.
