…Researched and contributed by Larry John.
Comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse has stated that he would like to die from a heroin overdose, describing it as a “modern death.”
The Fast Show and Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing star also voiced his support for the Swiss assisted-dying clinic, Dignitas.
He said that he believed people should be able to choose when and how they die.
Speaking on actress Kathy Burke’s podcast, Where There’s A Will, There’s A Wake, Whitehouse said: “I’d like an overdose of some heroin I think, something like that.
Does that sort of resonate as a sort of modern death? Because I’m all for Dignitas.
I really am.”
He also revealed that he once took ecstasy, but it wasn’t for him.
In addition to his comments about death and drugs, Whitehouse spoke about his current role in the musical comedy Only Fools, which he wrote the music and lyrics for.
The show has become the longest-running performance at The Theatre Royal Haymarket, and Whitehouse teased that there may be a tour in the works for next year.
Commentary:
Whitehouse’s comments about his preferred method of death are likely to be controversial and may be seen as promoting drug use or suicide.
It is important to remember that Whitehouse is a comedian and his comments should not be taken too seriously.
However, the issue of assisted dying is a serious one, and Whitehouse’s support for Dignitas may prompt discussions about the rights of people to choose when and how they die.
Whitehouse’s comments about his experience with ecstasy are also interesting, as he describes the drug as being “too nice, too good.”
This may reflect the dangers of drug use, as people may be tempted to take drugs because of the pleasurable effects they produce, despite the risks involved.
Whitehouse’s decision not to take ecstasy again shows a level of self-awareness and responsibility that may be lacking in some drug users.
Finally, Whitehouse’s success with Only Fools highlights his talent as a writer and performer.
The show’s popularity and potential tour demonstrate that Whitehouse remains a beloved figure in British comedy, with a loyal following.