'Gay Byrne called out my booze problem after he watched me down pints on stage' SAYS AL PORTER

AL Porter has revealed Gay Byrne called out his booze problem after he watched him down pints on stage during a comedy gig.

- SANDRA MALLON

The late legendary broadcaster went to see the comedian several years ago when he was performing at Vicar Street in Dublin.

Porter revealed that after the show, Gay approached him and told him he needed to sort out his drinking.

The Tallaght star said: "Yeah, Gay came to my show on Vicar Street and at that time I was drinking on stage and the audience was chanting, 'More, more, more'.

"And I downed one pint and then the next pint was put up and people were bringing up drink and Gay said after the show, I think you're going to need to look at that'.

"I do think he had foresight there. He had been around long enough that it was almost a prophetic statement because he knew nobody who is drinking with that little awareness.

"I think Gay could tell that this isn't an intentional part of your act. You don't have control over this. You don't have a handle on it."

Porter, 30, has been trying to rebuild his life after allegations of sexual misconduct shattered his career for the last six years.

He denied any wrongdoing and charges have since been dropped.

ALCOHOL

But the performer admitted alcohol played a large part in his downfall, revealing he is sober three years now.

He told Miriam O'Callaghan on RTE Radio 1: "Life is better for it.