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Comedian John Bishop’s incredible life story is heading to the big screen, with none other than Bradley Cooper directing and Will Arnett co-writing the upcoming romantic comedy Is This Thing On? a star-studded project based on Bishop’s real-life journey from heartbreak to stand-up stardom.
The film, currently in production, will explore the emotional and often hilarious path of a man who turns to comedy after the collapse of his marriage, mirroring Bishop’s own rise to fame. Known for his quick wit and relatable charm, Bishop became one of the UK’s most recognisable comedic talents, going from open-mic nights to primetime TV and acting roles in shows like Doctor Who and Skins.
Is This Thing On? will star Will Arnett in the lead role, portraying a fictionalised version of Bishop, while Bradley Cooper, fresh from directing Maestro and A Star Is Born, will also appear as his character’s best friend. Laura Dern, an Oscar-winning powerhouse, joins the cast as the estranged wife, bringing depth and gravitas to the romantic core of the film.
What sets this project apart is not just the A-list talent involved, but the authenticity behind it. Bishop himself is onboard as executive producer, ensuring that the story stays true to his real-life experiences, including the heartfelt twist that he and wife Melanie reconciled after the rocky period that first launched his comedy career. The couple remain happily together, with their enduring love adding an emotional punch to the narrative.
Speaking about the film, sources close to the production suggest it will blend laugh-out-loud moments with a deeper look at self-discovery, love, and second chances, themes that Bishop’s fans will instantly recognise from his stand-up routines.
For Cooper, this marks his third turn behind the camera, following the critically acclaimed A Star Is Born and the Leonard Bernstein biopic Maestro. His involvement, alongside Arnett’s writing and performance, signals a bold and heartfelt approach to telling Bishop’s story, one that’s likely to resonate with audiences far beyond the comedy circuit.
With a winning mix of real emotion, celebrity talent, and the kind of story that proves truth is often stranger, and funnier, than fiction, Is This Thing On? is shaping up to be a must-see. Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe pick up a mic.
