Social media lands Sean Hegarty with a controversial show

A comedian is advertising a fundraising gig for murderous Islamic terrorists after a social media appeal went wrong.

Northern Irish stand-up Sean Hegarty says, half-jokingly, that he is ‘fearing for his life’ after naming a forthcoming Belfast performance ‘ISIS Fundraiser’.

He was stick with the title after he turned to the internet for ideas when struggling to come up with a name his show. Rashly, he promised to choose the suggested title that attracted the most Facebook likes – and the hugely controversial title won.

‘I thought my foolproof plan couldn’t go wrong,’ Hegarty said. ‘Someone names it something silly, people laugh, click "like" and I get a stupid title and maybe a bit of publicity to help sell tickets.

‘Some predicted comments followed, Pubes, Pussy Whisperer and the cleverest one of all which was my favourite, Jokeback Mountain. Unfortunately for me, more people hate me than expected and what followed can only be described as catastrophic.’

The ‘ISIS Fundraiser’ idea attracted 72 likes – and Hegarty’s own suggestion – ‘Well this has backfired spectacularly!’ – came second with 65.

‘I’m stuck with a show title that not only leaves me with egg on my face… but no doubt fearing for my life as the show draws nearer,’ he said. ‘As I man of my word, I feel like I can’t go back on what was a competition only Bernard Manning would be proud of.

‘I just hope punters take the show title as a bit of tongue-in-cheek humour and nothing more, I don’t want anyone going mad and losing their head.’

Sean Hegarty is NOT PROUD to Present: ISIS Fundraiser will take place at Belfast’s Black Box on April 13. He added: ‘All proceeds will not going towards funding terrorism, but to feeding my kids and paying some bills. As long as it’s taken in the right context I’m hoping I’ll still be alive to do the show.’

Published: 8 Mar 2015