From School Plays to Stadiums
Horan traced his musical roots back to a primary school production of Oliver Twist. “I was probably an overconfident 10-year-old… and then got up there and bricked myself,” he joked. “Now I’m an annoying 33-year-old. Some things never change.” Despite the nerves, that early spark led to a career that has spanned global boyband mania and a successful solo journey.
Reflecting on his transition to a solo artist, Niall noted the evolution of his process: “I like the idea of going to work being ‘Pop Star Niall’ and then come home and not be ‘Pop Star Niall.’ I’m knackered. Look at the bags!”
Home Life and Hating Avocados
After years of “living out of a suitcase,” Horan revealed he is finally embracing a “settling down period” with his girlfriend and their dog. “I long to be at home a lot more than I used to,” he admitted, noting his newfound love for gardening. “I know the names of about five or six flowers now.”
However, don’t expect him to serve avocado at a garden party. “Hate avocado… it’s a textural thing,” he confessed. He also took aim at American breakfasts that mix sweet and savory: “You got big fat streaky bacon dripping and then you just like have strawberries. I just don’t really get it.”
High-Stakes Performances
Niall also recounted the surreal experience of performing for Joe Biden. “I thought it was a joke… I thought my manager was winding me up,” he said of the White House invitation. Meeting the President was equally intense: “You know those Irish people that you shake their hand and they don’t let go? He’s kind of… stare you down and connect.”
Dish from Waitrose is available on all major podcast platforms.
