Jump directly to the content
Rory's Anguish

Rory Bremner opens up on his heartbreaking struggle with ADHD which has left him feeling ‘overwhelmed’

The comedian was tested for the condition while making a BBC documentary

COMEDIAN Rory Bremner has spoken of his struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder after he was diagnosed with the condition while making a BBC documentary.

The star, 56, has been prescribed methylphenidate, which is better known under the brand name Ritalin, to help him concentrate following the discovery he had ADHD while filming of Horizon's ADHD and Me.

 Rory Bremner has spoken of his struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder after he was diagnosed with the condition while making a BBC documentary
3
Rory Bremner has spoken of his struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder after he was diagnosed with the condition while making a BBC documentaryCredit: BBC

Describing the change the medication has made, Rory explained: "It's like someone's switched my brain from techno Radio 1 to Classic FM. It's not pounding and rapid, it's calmer."

He admitted the idea of not being able to control the effect the condition has on him was overwhelming.

"To some extent, that was an admission of failure in many aspects of my life," said Rory.

"Being confronted with a lot of things that show you can't really manage is more overwhelming than I thought.

 The star, 56, has been prescribed methylphenidate, which is better known under the brand name Ritalin, to help him concentrate following the discovery he had ADHD while filming of Horizon's ADHD and Me
3
The star, 56, has been prescribed methylphenidate, which is better known under the brand name Ritalin, to help him concentrate following the discovery he had ADHD while filming of Horizon's ADHD and MeCredit: Getty Images

"I'll drift off because I'm bored. It can make you hate yourself. I'm sure I'm very hard to live with."

Rory has contributed to countless TV and radio shows over the years including Mock The Week and Whose Line Is It Anyway? He was also a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2011.

The show delves into the effects of ADHD which affects around three percent of the adult population and five percent of children.

 Rory says the condition feeds into his comedy performances
3
Rory says the condition feeds into his comedy performancesCredit: BBC

It also looks to debunk some of the stigma surrounding the condition with many people claiming it's an excuse for naughty children and bad parents.

The documentary also tells how almost a third of prisoners in the UK suffer from ADHD.

Horizon, ADHD and Me with Rory Bremner, 9pm, BBC2, April 25.


Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220