A restaurant in Exeter got a huge surprise when Michael Barrymore and his beloved dog Lara popped in for a visit earlier this summer.
The former Strike It Lucky presenter, who lives in Kingsbridge, delighted staff and guests when he stopped by the Brightside Exeter not once but twice in the space of two weeks.
The 74-year-old, who showcases his life in Devon on TikTok where he has a following of 4.5 million, originally visited the restaurant to film for his social media channel.
General manager Dan Wiltshire said: "Michael brought such an infectious energy into the restaurant. He was warm, generous with his time and genuinely interested in the team and our guests."
Their very special guest tucked into a full English breakfast, buttermilk pancakes, and coffee, all filmed for TikTok. He then took the time to chat with staff, pose for photos and speak with diners.
Michael read all the comments on his TikTok, including one from the daughter of a Brightside chef. He had such a great time that he soon returned for a second visit and filmed a full YouTube vlog.
Dan continued: "The fact he came back so quickly, and had even read all the comments on his first video, meant a lot to everyone here. He’s welcome back any time so hopefully we’ll see him again very soon.”
Earlier this month Michael embarked on one of his famous 'munchie runs' at Ellacombe News in Torquay. "I've found a place that does those pineapple spears in Kool-Aid," Michael began in a TikTok video. "So let's go and get them."
Kool-Aid pineapple spears are a social media viral snack made by soaking jarred or fresh pineapple spears in a mixture of flavoured Kool-Aid drinks powder, sugar and pineapple juice.
"Look at all the choices," he continued as he browsed the shop's fridge. Michael then took the peach and mango, cherry and apple varieties of the drink to the till.
However, before he paid he couldn't help but spot a number of uncommon sweet treats to try, including strawberry-flavoured Bounty, Milky Way and Reece's bars, followed by Roasted Hazelnut, Mint Crush and Cookies 'n' Creme Crush KitKat Chunkies.
Next, he grabbed bags of mango gummies and Japanese Sour Millions Squishies plus a can of Dr Pepper Cherry, before he decided it was time to pay.
The cost left his followers staggered. "£79 spot on," shopkeeper Cheryl informed him.
"Very reasonable," quipped Michael with his trademark phrase, prompting Cheryl to give him a kiss on the cheek.
He then returned to his car to sample each of the three spears. "They're all lovely, but I think the apple one is my favourite," Michael declared.
Since moving from London, entertainer Michael has been warmly welcomed by the local community. Not only has he hosted drama classes for children in the area, he regularly stops to chat to fans in local cafes and shops.
Brightside Exeter is open Monday to Sunday, 8am to 9pm.
Exeter Restaurant Staff Delighted by Michael Barrymore’s Surprise Visit