- Have YOU got a story? Email [email protected]
Paul Mescal was left speechless after he met the winner of his lookalike competition over video call on Wednesday morning.
The Gladiator actor, 28, appeared on Zoe Ball‘s BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show alongside his co-stars Denzel Washington and Connie Nielsen.
However the Irish star was unaware Zoe had a surprise in store for him as she introduced him to the winner of the Paul Mescal lookalike competition which took place in Dublin earlier this month.
As Jack Wall O’Reilly, who is now otherwise known as ‘earbuds Paul’ came on the phone, Paul was left shocked as he exclaimed: ‘This is bananas.’
Speaking to Jack, Paul joked: ‘I actually saw the photo, I didn’t know it was happening until it was over and I think you captured the spirit of me very well.’
His lookalike then replied: ‘Thank you very much. I presumed you were at home with your family getting some rest after the long press tour.’
Paul Mescal was left speechless as he ‘meets’ his uncanny lookalike over the phone on BBC Radio 2 on Wednesday after THAT impersonator competition in Dublin earlier this month
As Jack Wall O’Reilly (pictured), who is now otherwise known as ‘earbuds Paul’ came on the phone, Paul was left shocked as he exclaimed: ‘ This is bananas’
Jack pictured at the lookalike contest where he won a grand prize of £20 or three pints according to his preference
‘Oh you are so nice and thoughtful,’ replied Paul.
Denzel then asked: ‘Wait turn to the side I want to see the profile,’ as Jack agreed: ‘yeah everyone says it is the profile’ as those in the studio exclaimed at the resemblance.
Jack revealed he has recently graduated with a Masters in Screenwriting, citing Paul as an inspiration he gushed: ‘I am a huge fan, massive respect for everyone there. Obviously Paul, Aftersun is one of my favourite films.
‘He is a great inspiration for young creative people in Ireland and all around the world and I hope someday through the appropriate channels when I have got an idea I am passionate and is developed enough that maybe I might get to bring it to you.’
‘Oh Jack you are an absolute gentleman,’ added Paul.
Several Mescal impersonators turned up to Smithfield Square in north Dublin for the playful contest ahead of the actor’s appearance at the Irish premiere of Gladiator II two weeks ago.
The contenders all dressed in what has become known as Paul’s signature look: white sports shorts and a pair of headphones.
In a video from the contest, a group of finalists were seen lined up as one of the organisers asked the crowd to clap for their favourite.
Speaking to Jack, Paul joked: ‘I actually saw the photo, I didn’t know it was happening until it was over and I think you captured the spirit of me very well’
Denzel then asked: ‘Wait turn to the side I want to see the profile,’ as Jack agreed: ‘yeah everyone says it is the profile’ as everyone in the studio exclaimed at the resemblance (Paul pictured at the Governors Awards on Sunday)
Most of the finalists got a fairly lukewarm response from the crowd except for one who received a large round of applause.
The man hosting said: ‘There is clearly only one perfect Mescal. Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together.’
The winner then held up a novelty cheque made out for €20 ‘or three pints’.
The winner said: ‘I think there’s a Paul Mescal in all of us and thanks everyone for coming out.’
The idea behind the lookalike competition was sparked after a Timothée Chalamet lookalike competition was held in New York and the Hollywood actor shocked fans by turning up.
Fans who gathered in Dublin sadly didn’t have the same experience as Paul didn’t arrive for the contest.
