Late-night entertainment show shot in a pub

Musical comedy duo The 2 Johnnies have landed their own TV series in Ireland.  

Tipperary duo Johnny Smacks & Johnny B are already known for and their RTÉ 2FM radio show and their weekly podcasts, which mixes stand-up, sketches and songs.

Now the national broadcaster has commissioned six half-hour episodes of The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In for RTÉ2. Each will be set in a pub with the pair joined by guests ‘for shenanigans’.

Johnny B said: ‘People told us we're not real comedians, we're just the funny lads down the pub, so we said we'll film our new TV show in a pub.

Justin Healy, commissioning editor for comedy for RTÉ added: ‘We are delighted to announce this commission. The 2 Johnnies have been on the radar for some time, so it’s great to have worked with them to get to this point and design a show around their unique ability to engage and resonate with a contemporary youthful Irish audience.’

The show is being made by Belfast-based Green Inc, who also make Ireland’s Got Talent and previously made comedy panel shows Monumental and Ask Rhod Gilbert.

Chief executive Stephen Stewart called the show a ‘ full-blown, entertainment series’, adding:  ‘We’re going to the pub with the hottest property in Ireland - what’s not to like?! ‘

The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In begins on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player in October.

Published: 18 Sep 2023