Barry Hearn is a man who loves to shock players and fans alike. However just today, Mr Hearn made a surprise announcement that acclaimed actor and presenter Brian Blessed OBE will join Dennis Taylor and Alan McManus in the commentary box for the World Championship.
After watching Brian Blessed commentate in a Room 101 episode from 2004 with Paul Merton and Kirsty Young, Barry Hearn was more than enthusiastic to get him on board. After seeing one audience member fall asleep last year, Mr. Hearn was keen to eradicate this from happening for good.
We cannot speak with Mr. Hearn, due to his well-known shyness on camera. His alleged assistant, Joey Skill, provided me with further explanations:
“Brian’s presence at the Crucible will excite everybody, but he must be strapped to the chair and be dressed as Prince Vultan at all costs. His booming voice will keep everybody alert in case if they nod off. In fact, I believe the chemistry between him and Stephen Hendry is beautiful to watch! Stephen will be smiling in no time!”
The reaction within the snooker fanbase was largely positive. One fanatic said that Brian Blessed would take ‘Where’s the cue ball going’ to astronomical levels. We assume Mr Blessed, famous for Flash Gordon and The Black Adder, is delighted to accept the role. However, I am unable to confirm this. New CoR reporters Flora Polis and Jake Cortile did meet with Mr Blessed, but was unable to understand his roars, splutters, bellows and booming voice.
Inevitably, Ronnie O’Sullivan will release a video to comment on this new appointment. It’s only a matter of time, to be honest. CoR analyst Seth Bailouts said details may follow if there are any further developments. Meanwhile, Ken Doherty reveals that he will wear a Wolverine costume if he qualifies for the World Championship. Stay tuned for next week.
