How did you get into comedy?
I was a child actor and I failed. It was embarrassing and shameful. I felt as if I had let down my parents, who wanted to retire off my winnings as an actor, except there were none. I took a long break from that and eventually got back into comedy at about 25 years old.
What is your new tour, American Royalty, about?
It’s a fun show, it’s silly and it touches on a lot of the topical current events and news issues that we’ve all experienced over the last year. And not just American ones – I cover UK events, too.
How would you describe your style of comedy?
Dark and a bit silly.
Does your comedy benefit from the state of politics at the moment?
I hope it does. I think people need to laugh at the world and the world is crazier than ever. I think I put that through a filter that helps it make more sense.
Any preshow rituals?
I’m not placating the British here but I like tea. I’m not being patronising but I have a cup of Earl Grey before every show. It’s in my rider and it’s in all of my green rooms. I have a cup of tea and chill out. I like a bit of solitude before a show. Nothing too crazy.
Best heckle?
A couple got up in the middle of my show and walked out and said: “We’re leaving because we’re going to go have sex.” I can’t compete with that. This was in Greenwich Village at a bar where I did shows all the time, years ago. I said: “Well, that’s probably more productive than what I’m doing.”
Any pet peeves from the world of standup?
I don’t like it when a host asks if it’s anyone’s birthday or if anyone’s celebrating anything. Because I just don’t care.
What’s one of the strangest fan encounters you’ve had?
I had someone follow me into a hotel I was staying at and get in the elevator to tell me that they were a big fan. They said: “I followed you for two blocks.” I said: “Oh you’re not staying at the hotel?” They said: “No, I’m a fan.” It’s very strange when someone tells you that in an enclosed space. I would never follow someone into a hotel elevator. They were very nice, but that was terrifying.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t overestimate your worth.
Worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
You can do anything you put your mind to.
• Tim Dillon: American Royalty tours Manchester, Glasgow and London from 4-7 April
