‘I just didn’t enjoy being hurt’ – Adam Burke on swapping the wrestling ring for the stand-up circuit

The comedian talks family life, career highs and how he ­perfected his knockout routines

Comedian Adam Burke from Bray Co Wicklow. Photo: Steve Humphreys

Sophie Grenham

When I meet comedian Adam Burke, his voice has a throaty, bass-like quality. Has he been unwell? While it might be cold season, his rasp is the result of a three-night stint hosting Bingo Loco; part disco, part game show with prizes such as Mini Coopers and trips to Las Vegas. Burke belongs to a crew of gold-jacketed staff and clearly adores the work, which he has most weekends.

We’re in the bar of the seaside Martello Hotel in Bray, Co ­Wicklow, and Burke knows the space well from holding comedy events here. While we quickly connect, Burke also has a businesslike reserve – confident but not arrogant. I first encountered his act last autumn when he supported the US comedian Reginald D Hunter at the Whale Theatre in Greystones.