The move to a notoriously fickle business means that Farnan's financial future is now far from certain. But the 30-year-old Corkman believes the sacrifice is worth it to be able to follow his heart's desire.

It was not an easy decision, especially as Farnan's legal career was beginning to flourish.

"I didn't get out just after qualifying, " he says. "I had been working as a litigation solicitor for a number of years before taking the leap."

He had also worked at the glamour end of the profession, spending time in New York working for the Innocence Project, a legal clinic founded by celebrity defence lawyer Barry Scheck, whose clients have included OJ Simpson and English nanny Louise Woodward.

For many years, Farnan struggled to combine his passion for comedy and acting with the demands of a career.

"I had a drawer-full of ideas - comedy sketches, TV programmes, even children's books - but they were all going by the wayside because I didn't have the time to develop them." he says.

The crunch came last June when he decided to give up the day job.

"It's such a big decision but, once you've handed in your notice, you quickly realise that the sky hasn't fallen in, " he says. "I knew I had something, I'm well motivated and fairly intelligent. I took a leap but I wasn't flying blind."

The career U-turn means that, for now, Farnan has to forget about the stylish houses, flash cars and fast lifestyle that motivate many young professionals.

"I've left a secure, lifelong career for something that can be fleeting, " he says. "I don't have a mortgage or a young family so I'm not under pressure from a financial point of view."

Farnan also believes he can use his professional training to help him make the most of his new career.

"The law comes with its own disciplines and it helps when you can apply them to something else, " he says. "Dealing with clients and barristers gives you a certain confidence. I'm trying to move forward without forgetting what I've learned."

Having made his mark at the Cat Laughs festival in Kilkenny last year, Farnan is now plying his trade on the comedy circuit in London and around the UK, as well as acting in and directing short films.