A Night with Legends: Dez O’Connor’s Insights into Showbiz Magic

In the vibrant hub of London’s West End, at the Playhouse Theatre, the legendary Dez O’Connor is captivating audiences with his remarkable performance in the hit musical “Dreamboats and Petticoats.”

As he shares his experiences, there’s an undeniable charm about him that draws you in.

His infectious energy reminds us why he remains a beloved figure in entertainment.

During a recent chat, Dez candidly discussed the nuances of interviewing.

While he’s known for his engaging style with guests, he admitted a surprising truth: he finds it less enjoyable when the tables are turned.

“It’s odd,” he reflected, “I love interviewing others but not so much being interviewed myself.” It’s a sentiment many can relate to; often, the spotlight feels more comfortable when it’s on someone else.

Dez has had the privilege of interviewing a plethora of fascinating personalities throughout his career.

He emphasized that the key to a successful interview is genuine interest.

Whether it’s a celebrity or a business mogul, the ability to connect and engage with their story is what truly matters.

“You never know what intriguing tales people have,” he noted, reminiscing about conversations that sparked his curiosity.

Reflecting on his past interviews, Dez stumbled upon a memorable moment with a cherished British entertainer—himself.

He recalled the late Des O’Connor, a man who carved a niche in showbiz as a pop star, chat show host, and comedian.

Dez expressed admiration for Des, who was a favorite among royalty and entertained audiences for decades.

“He was truly multifaceted,” he remarked, highlighting Des’s broad appeal.

One particularly striking story from Dez’s memory involved securing an interview with the elusive Barbara Streisand.

He shared how, after years of trying, her name finally appeared in red letters on their office board—a sign that she had agreed to appear.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he exclaimed, recalling his excitement.

“No one had managed to book her before!”

Preparation became key for Dez.

He immersed himself in Streisand’s work, studying her extensively for six weeks.

“I could have gone on Mastermind with her as my specialist subject,” he joked.

When the night of the interview arrived, he was ready.

The audience erupted in applause as Streisand walked on stage, showcasing her star power.

Yet, even with all the preparation, Dez faced a moment of uncertainty.

As he glanced at his notes, he realized they had vanished in a flurry of nerves.

Instead of panicking, he chose to ad-lib, relying on his instincts and humor to guide the conversation.

“I just went with it,” he said, clearly relishing the spontaneity of the moment.

Dez recounted a particularly bold question he posed to Streisand, calling her a “control freak.” The audience gasped, unsure of how she would react.

To his relief, she laughed, proving that humor can indeed disarm even the most formidable personalities.

“Sometimes, you have to take risks,” he advised, underscoring the importance of authenticity in interviews.

As he reflected on his career, Dez acknowledged the art of making guests feel comfortable.

“You have to create an environment where they can truly open up,” he explained, revealing the secret to his success as a chat show host.

This approach not only entertains the audience but also allows for deeper connections.

The world of entertainment is filled with stories, both glamorous and challenging.

For Dez O’Connor, the journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

His insights into the craft of interviewing remind us that, at its core, it’s about building relationships and sharing experiences.

As the curtain falls on another night at the Playhouse Theatre, Dez continues to enchant audiences with his talent and charisma.

His legacy, much like the stories he shares, will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.