During a recent episode of Conan O’Brien‘s talk show, Conan had a hilarious and candid conversation with actor and comedian Stephen Merchant. The chat quickly turned towards the topic of being uncomfortable and, more specifically, being comfortable being uncomfortable when it comes to discussing sexual matters. Stephen’s show, “Hello Ladies,” touches on some raw and intimate subjects, and Conan was curious about how Stephen’s parents respond to it.
Stephen shared that his parents are, in fact, aware of the show and have attended tapings. However, there was a bit of secrecy involved as Stephen instructed them not to tell him when they were planning to come. They sneaked into the audience incognito, adding an extra layer of humor to the situation.
The conversation then delved into Stephen’s height, as he stands tall at 6′ 7”. Being significantly taller than the average person in the UK, Stephen mentioned the difficulties he faces when it comes to intimacy. With the average height of women in the UK being around 5’4”, Stephen humorously explained the challenges he encounters when engaging in certain activities.
To illustrate the issue, Stephen invited Conan to stand up and demonstrate how the height difference affects romantic encounters. The comedic scenario had everyone in stitches, showcasing Stephen’s talent for making light of personal topics.
While Stephen’s show does touch on sex, it’s not the sole focus. However, given his towering height, it becomes a subject that naturally arises. Stephen’s parents came to see the show and, intriguingly, afterward, they never mentioned the fact that their son openly discussed sex on stage. It seems to be a topic that remains off-limits for discussion in their household.
Stephen continued the conversation, sharing a relatable experience he had while watching a movie with his parents. The film in question was “Atonement,” which Stephen believed would be a safe, Oscar-winning choice devoid of explicit content. However, there was a surprising turn of events.
As a steamy scene played out on screen, Stephen found himself in an uncomfortable position with his parents in the same room. Employing a clever tactic, he diverted attention away from the on-screen intimacy to a bookcase within the scene. By focusing on the inanimate object, Stephen skillfully feigned disinterest in the sex scene unfolding before his eyes.
Little did he know, his elderly grandmother unexpectedly entered the room, catching the three of them in an awkward situation. Without uttering a word, she took in the scene, glanced at the television, and exited the room, leaving everyone dumbfounded.
This amusing anecdote shared by Stephen Merchant on Conan O’Brien‘s talk show serves as another reminder of the comedian’s ability to engage audiences with his unique brand of humor. Whether discussing his height difficulties or recounting uncomfortable experiences with his family, Stephen always brings a lighthearted and entertaining perspective to the table.
