What was the name of Victor Meldrew's wife?
31/03/2020 … Test your comedy knowledge with our weekly multiple-choice trivia quiz, compiled – as always – by broadcaster and comedy historian Hayden Parker.
2020 Archives
Tue 31 March 2020
Johnny Vegas turns delivery man
...as Russell Crowe advertises the comic's services
31/03/2020 … Vulnerable residents of St Helens may see a family figure dropping off their essential supplies: Johnny Vegas.
Book deal for Bob and Jim comedian
Jim Beckett writes two kids' novels
31/03/2020 … Jim Beckett, formerly of comedy duo Bob and Jim, has sold two children’s books to publishers Egmont.
Comics in online drive to cheer up children
31/03/2020 … Comedians including James Acaster, Joe Lycett, and Richard Herring have recorded videos for a new charity social media push to cheer up children, especially those…
Exclusive: Breeders spawns a second series
While Karl Pilkington says Sick Of It is over
31/03/2020 … Parenting sitcom Breeders is returning for a second series, Chortle can reveal.
Holly & David Go to Dinner
31/03/2020 … Remember when the biggest social dilemma you faced was where to go for dinner? Well, the situation was recreated by Holly Burn and David Mills in this sketch,…
When does Sky's comedy Code 404 start?
Air date for Daniel Mays and Stephen Graham AI crimefighting series
31/03/2020 … Sky has confirmed the air date of its new Robocop-style comedy Code 404.
We Didn't Start The Virus
31/03/2020 … Olaf Falafel has recorded a new version of Billy Joel's We Didn't Start The Fire for the lockdown.
Matt Lucas to released baked potato song for the NHS
After new version of Shooting Songs track went viral
31/03/2020 … Matt Lucas is to release a reworked version of his famous Baked Potato Song to aid NHS workers.
Paul Chuckle: I've had coronavirus
'It's not nice, I promise you'
31/03/2020 … Paul Chuckle has revealed that he was laid low with coronavirus.
Mon 30 March 2020
© BBC Johnny Vegas named a 'legend of comedy'
As Leicester Comedy Festival hands out its gongs
30/03/2020 … Johnny Vegas has been named this year's 'legend of comedy' by the Leicester Comedy Festival.
© C4 Friday Night Dinner for 2.4million
C4 comedy attracts a record audience
30/03/2020 … Friday Night Dinner returned to Channel 4 with its biggest ever audience on Friday.
Trying: First trailer
30/03/2020 … Apple has released the official trailer from Trying, its first new British comedy series.
Surprise Rick and Morty mini-episode released
30/03/2020 … Adult Swim has unexpectedly released a new mini-episode of Rick and Morty.
Benidorm creator to open karaoke bar... in Benidorm
Derren Litten quits comedy writing after the BBC passed on Scarborough
30/03/2020 … Benidorm creator Derren Litten has quit comedy to open a karaoke bar – in Benidorm.
Micky Flanagan out- outperforms the rest
His stand-up is most-watched show on Sky One
30/03/2020 … Maybe everybody really does turn to stand-up comedy in times like this… Viewing figures show that the most-watched show on Sky One on Saturday night was…
Japanese comedy veteran dies of coronavirus
30/03/2020 … Japanese comedian Ken Shimura, a household name in his country since the 1970s, has died of coronavirus.
Sun 29 March 2020
Celia Pacquola wins Dancing With The Stars
Comedian's success in Australia's Strictly
29/03/2020 … Comedian Celia Pacquola has won Australia’s Dancing With The Stars.
© C4 The Maxxx Factor
This week's comedy on TV and radio
29/03/2020 … The week's best comedy on TV and radio Sunday March 29 PATRICK KIELTY'S COMEDY HEROES: An interview as part of Radio 2's Funny Fortnight in which…
Merseyside Police Farce
Cops raid comedy club for breaching lockdown - with a pre-recorded gig
29/03/2020 … When Liverpool’s Hot Water comedy club decided to stream an old stand-up night, it must have seemed like a good idea to cheer people up and raise some much-needed…
© BBC The Young Ones was overrated... but The Good Life, now that's funny
29/03/2020 … It was a groundbreaking sitcom that defined a generation of comedy – but its star Adrian Edmondson reckons The Young Ones hasn't aged well.
Sat 28 March 2020
Do you believe in big cats?
28/03/2020 … Here’s another deleted scene from This Country’s third and final series.
The comedy clubs still staging shows... online
28/03/2020 … During the lockdown Chortle will be bringing you a round-up of new comedy on demand – updated every weekday at around 3pm.
New Radio 4 show from housebound comedians
Sharing stories of isolation in Now Wash Your Hands
28/03/2020 … Radio 4 has launched a new show and podcast in which comedians will share stories of their isolation under the coronavirus shutdown.
© Gartenbaukino/CC BY-SA 3.0 Jock
Preview of Radio 2's latest Funny Fortnight pilot
28/03/2020 … Greg Hemphill’s done all right out of writing about pensioners, given that he first co-created the Still Game characters when he in his late 20s.
Fri 27 March 2020
This Country: Bloopers and outtakes
27/03/2020 … The BBC has released a blooper reel of outtakes from This Country series 3.
© Fremantle Media/Talkback Sandi Toksvig launches web series
27/03/2020 … Sandi Toksvig has joined the army of comedians offering online content from her home.
Let's hear it for the delivery drivers...
27/03/2020 … Delivery drivers are currently ringing the doorbell and then stepping well away, which I’ve decided to call Lockdown Ginger.
Susan Calman hosts a new TV show... from her back garden
Socially Distant for BBC Scotland
27/03/2020 … Susan Calman is to film a new TV show from the bottom of her garden.
Tributes to comedy writer John Langdon
Gagsmith had a 30-year partnership with Rory Bremner
27/03/2020 … Comedy writer John Langdon, who worked on Not The Nine O’Clock News and The News Quiz and had a 30-year partnership with Rory Bremner has died.
© BBC Little Britain could be back as a stage show
Matt Lucas also confirms Netflix talks
27/03/2020 … Little Britain could be returning as a stage show, Matt Lucas has revealed.
Turn your bathroom into a venue for a great night out |
Taskmaster's second 'home tasking' challenge
27/03/2020 … Here are the results of the second 'home tasking' challenge set by Taskmaster'a Alex Horne.
Cabin Fever episode 3
27/03/2020 … Here's episode three of Cabin Fever, the web series a locked-down John Finnemore is making in the guise of his Cabin Pressure creation Arthur Shappey.
Thu 26 March 2020
The Stand offers another virtual gig
With Frankie Boyle, Daniel Sloss and Fred MacAulay and others
26/03/2020 … The Stand comedy clubs are offering a second virtual stand-up club this Saturday night.
© Steve Ullathorne When is Sophie Willian's sitcom Alma's Not Normal on TV?
26/03/2020 … BBC Two has confirmed a broadcast date for Alma's Not Normal, the semi-autobiographical from comic Sophie Willan The pilot – about Boltonian wild-child,…
Improv survives the pandemic!
26/03/2020 … Improv theatre Hoopla is offering free lessons in their craft during the coronavirus lockdown.
Don't feel guilty...
Deborah Frances-White’s Guilty Feminist tour is axed
26/03/2020 … Deborah Frances-White’s Guilty Feminist live tour has been cancelled.
I wanted to be Will Smith growing up...
Man Like Mobeen’s Tolu Ogunmefun shares his comedy favourites
26/03/2020 … As Guz Khan’s sitcom Man Like Mobeen starts its third series on BBC One next week, Tolu Ogunmefun, who plays Nate, shares his Perfect Playlist… Jim…
Student Comedy Awards: Last semi-finalists announced
People's Choice champ and wildcards named
26/03/2020 … George Totill has won the People’s Choice place in the semi-finals of the Chortle student comedy award.
Wed 25 March 2020
Lee Mack reports coronavirus symptoms
...and he's already fed up of the 'not going out' gags
25/03/2020 … Lee Mack has been struck down with the symptoms of coronavirus.
Hitmen
25/03/2020 … Any Bake Off fan tuning in to Hitmen to see those two nice ladies with the cheeky double entendres will be in for a rude awakening.
Duncanville: Exclusive clip
From Channel 4's new animated comedy
25/03/2020 … Here's an exclusive clip from Channel 4's new imported animated series, Duncanville.
How porn is helping the comedy industry during lockdown
...and not just in the way you're thinking!
25/03/2020 … Many comedians may be turning to pornography to get them through these difficult times – but none quite like this.
© UKTV Alex Horne sets Taskmaster challenges for the nation
The perfect answer to lockdown boredom
25/03/2020 … Alex Horne is setting the nation some Taskmaster challenges to alleviate the boredom of social distancing.
© BBC/Colin Hutton Mister Winner Episode 1
25/03/2020 … Spencer Jones is one of the funniest, most inventive comedians to have emerged in recent years – which is why it’s so disappointing to see him in…
Crooners for corona
Contest to find the funniest virus-themed song
25/03/2020 … The producers of the Musical Comedy Award have launched a competition to find the funniest song based around the coronavirus.
Union Jack Radio to air 1990s stand-up clips
Part of its #StandUpToCorona strand
25/03/2020 … Union Jack Radio is to feature stand-up clips from 1990s TV show Live At Jongleurs as part of its new comedy strand.
BBC orders two new sketch series
From Ellie & Natasia and Lazy Susan
25/03/2020 … The BBC has ordered two new comedy series, from Ellie & Natasia and Lazy Susan.
Marcus Brigstocke returns to Jazz FM
New series about the links between musicians
25/03/2020 … Marcus Brigstocke is to return to Jazz FM to host a new series called Jazz Family Trees.
Tue 24 March 2020
Which computer game system did Morecambe and Wise once advertise?
24/03/2020 … Test your comedy knowledge with our weekly multiple-choice trivia quiz, compiled – as always – by broadcaster and comedy historian Hayden Parker.
© BBC/Endemol Shine The Mash Report to be filmed in its stars' homes
Producers work around lock-in rules
24/03/2020 … The next series of BBC Two’s Mash Report will be broadcast from the homes of its presenters.
New BBC podcast for Catherine Bohart and Sarah Keyworth
Comics talk about the realities of relationships with other couples
24/03/2020 … Real-life couple Catherine Bohart and Sarah Keyworth have made a new Radio 4 podcast about relationships.
Jonny & The Baptists Attempt a TikTok
24/03/2020 … Musical comedy duo Jonny & The Baptists embrace the short-form format of TikTok in their new video.
Adelaide Cabaret Festival cancelled
But plans to do something online...
24/03/2020 … This year’s Adelaide Cabaret Festival has been cancelled amid the ongoing public health emergency.
© Mark Jones/CC BY-SA 2.0 The Simpsons: We'd love to have Harry and Meghan on the show...
'I hear she wants to do voiceover work'
24/03/2020 … The Simpsons producers have made a play to get the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to cameo on their show.
Staydium
24/03/2020 … The coronavirus lockdown has left sports TV channels with swathes of airtime and nothing to fill it with.
'My insecurities are woven into this character'
O-T Fagbenle on his new E4 comedy, Maxxx
24/03/2020 … E4's new sitcom Maxx revolves around a boyband star turned drug-shamed tabloid laughing stock trying to make a comeback.
Mon 23 March 2020
It Started As A Joke
Trailer for Eugene Mirman documentary film
23/03/2020 … The trailer has been released for It Started As A Joke, a documentary film about Eugene Mirman and the alternative New York comedy scene that built up around him.
Simon Brodkin says: I have coronavirus
Becoming the second doctor-turned-comic to reveal symptoms...
23/03/2020 … Simon Brodkin has become the second comedian in 24 hours to say he's got coronavirus.
Kerry Mucklowe gets her own statue
23/03/2020 … The BBC reckoned Kerry Mucklowe deserved her own statue – so they made one.
Hot Tub in your home
Kurt Braunohler and Kristen Schaal's LA's alternative comedy showcase streams tonight
23/03/2020 … The hippest alternative comedy night in Los Angeles is being live-streamed tonight, although Brits will have to stay up very late to watch it.
Woody Allen’s memoirs are released
Surprise news after original publisher bowed to backlash
23/03/2020 … Woody Allen’s memoirs have been unexpectedly released, after its original publisher was forced to drop the title amid widespread protest.
John Finnemore revives Cabin Pressure character
Arthur Shappey's back... but in self-isolation
23/03/2020 … John Finnemore has revived one of the characters from his hit sitcom Cabin Pressure for the coronavirus lockdown.
Distress Call
23/03/2020 … Comics Matthew Highton and Joz Norris have shot a comedy sci-fi horror short in the confines of their kitchen.
Podcast deal for Dane Baptiste
Comic's interview show switches platforms
23/03/2020 … Comedy podcast Dane Baptiste Questions Everything has been snapped up by the world’s biggest podcast company Acast.
It's a funny old game...
Comics recreate cancelled football fixtures on Fifa
23/03/2020 … Comedians missing the football season came up with their own solution to cancelled fixtures – running the matches on Fifa 20.
Isolation song
23/03/2020 … We will get though the coronavirus with love – according to musical comedian Hannah Warman.
Paul Sinha: I think I have coronavirus
Comic hasn't been tested, but has symptoms
23/03/2020 … Paul Sinha has revealed that he probably has coronavirus.
© BBC This Country duo: We're skint
Daisy May and Charlie Cooper said they've 'spunked up' the money they got from their series
23/03/2020 … This Country may have become a huge hit – but sibling creators Daisy May and Charlie Cooper say they are still penniless, thanks to some reckless…
Sun 22 March 2020
Explicable Me
Review of Suzi Ruffell and Ahir Shah's entertainment pilot as part of Radio 2's Funny Fortnight
22/03/2020 … With her gregarious, in-control nature, it was probably only a matter of time before Suzi Ruffell landed a presenting slot of her own.
Saturday Night Live at The Stand
Virtual gig review by Steve Bennett
22/03/2020 … Nothing beats a live gig, but if this is to be the new normal of stand-up comedy for a while… well, it’s not too bad.
Randy Rainbow: Social Distance
22/03/2020 … Those people who stay at home binge-watching box sets and ordering food in are the real heroes of the coronavirus.
Always June
Review of Vicki Pepperdine and Morgana Robinson's sitcom pilot as part of Radio 2's Funny Fortnight
22/03/2020 … Funny Fortnight, Radio Two’s annual season of comedy pilots kicked off last night with Ed Patrick’s medical-based talk show, Infectious Personalities,…
Infectious Personalities
Review of Ed Patrick's talk show pilot as part of Radio 2's Funny Fortnight
22/03/2020 … Given there have been talk shows and panel shows based on just about every topic known to man, it’s a surprise there hasn’t been a medical-themed one…
© C4 Friday Night Dinner returns
Stuck in? Here's the best of the week's comedy on radio and TV
22/03/2020 … The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio.
Is That Darren Lacey?
22/03/2020 … Kerry and Kurtan run into an old friend at the railway station in this deleted scene from last week's episode of this country.
Fri 20 March 2020
© BBC 'When physical comedy makes you laugh, it’s funnier than anything verbal'
Mister Winner writer Matt Morgan on his new BBC sitcom
20/03/2020 … Why did you want to write this show? I wanted to do a family show that centred on physical comedy.
Edinburgh Fringe deadlines put back a month
'Our view is that there will be a festival – but we don't know what form it will take'
20/03/2020 … The publication of the Edinburgh Fringe programme is to be put back by at least four weeks.
'I had to walk around the Baftas with my trousers undone'
Spencer Jones on Mister Winner, and his own slapstick life
20/03/2020 … Spencer Jones returns to TV next week as the hapless Leslie Winner in the sitcom Mister Winner, following a successful pilot in 2017.
Now the comedy clubs come to you...
The Stand hosts a live-streamed gig to beat coronavirus lockdown
20/03/2020 … The Stand is to host a free live-streamed show from one of its comedy clubs this weekend, headlined by Phill Jupitus.
Run: New trailer
Coming to Sky Comedy on April 15
20/03/2020 … Sky has released a trailer for its new series Run, featuring Phoebe Waller-Bridge and written by Fleabag stage director Vicky Jones.
How to survive the toilet paper shortage
20/03/2020 … Tweets of the week Day 36 of self-isolation.
One Idiot you should listen to...
Our new daily round-up of comedy to consume at home
20/03/2020 … During the coronavirus lockdown Chortle will be bringing you a round-up of new comedy on demand – updated every weekday at around 3pm.
I, Dave Johns
Life imitates art as coronavirus forces comic to sign on
20/03/2020 … He shot to fame as a man pounded by the bureaucracy of Britain’s benefits system.
Mark Thomas offers his NHS show for free
...to anyone who makes a donation to food banks
20/03/2020 … Mark Thomas is using one of his acclaimed stand-up shows as a virtual benefit gig for food banks Fans who make any donation to the Trussell Trust…
New trailer for Red Dwarf: The Promised Land
20/03/2020 … A trailer has been released for the new feature-length episode of Red Dwarf, giving tantalising hints about the plot.
Comics offer tips on isolation
In two special podcast episodes
20/03/2020 … The Dave channel is releasing two special episodes of its comedy mental health podcast Conversations Against Living Miserably to help people stuck indoors…
Maxxx trailer
20/03/2020 … E4 have released the first trailed for their new comedy Maxxx.
Thu 19 March 2020
Simon Pegg and Nick Frost cope with coronavirus
Should they go down The Winchester?
19/03/2020 … They have some experience in dealing with an apocalyptic situation in which ever-larger numbers of the population become infected.
This Country's Daisy May Cooper to become a mum again
Star announces second pregnancy
19/03/2020 … This Country star Daisy May Cooper has announced that she is pregnant with her second child.
Pulling together
Fund to help comics in need tops £50k
19/03/2020 … A new fund to help comedians struggling because of the coronavirus lockdown has hit its £50,000 target within a day.
Who wore it best?
Robin Williams vs Alison Spittle
19/03/2020 … Some people are more inventive than others when it comes to entertaining themselves during the coronavirus lockdown.
Mawaan Rizwan named one of the '30 under 30' to watch
Big honour from Forbes magazine
19/03/2020 … Comic Mawaan Rizwan has made the 30 Under 30 list of hotly-tipped movers and shakers compiled by financial magazine Forbes.
© BBC Coronavirus update: March 19
The latest cancellations and other news
19/03/2020 … This page will be updated to include the latest developments throughout the day.
Adam Kay up for prestigious book award
His memoir dubbed one of the biggest titles in the past 30 years
19/03/2020 … Adam Kay’s NHS memoirs This Is Going To Hurt has made a list of the top 11 books to have been released in the past 30 years.
2020 Chortle Award winners revealed
Including Bob Mortimer, Rhod Gilbert, Jessica Fostekew and more...
19/03/2020 … Jessica Fostekew was a double winner at this year’s Chortle Awards, with other accolades going to the likes of Bob Mortimer, Rhod Gilbert and Kiri…
Wed 18 March 2020
© C4 Feel Good
18/03/2020 … We should be wary of likening any complex comedy with a screwed-up central female character to Fleabag – although certainly those who loved Phoebe-Waller Bridge’s…
The Bill Murray closes for at least two weeks
But it plans to live-stream shows instead.
18/03/2020 … Top London comedy venue The Bill Murray has announced it is to close for at least two weeks in light of the latest advice on the COVID-19 outbreak.
Brighton Fringe shelved
Coronavirus lockdown claims 5,500 performances
18/03/2020 … This year’s Brighton Fringe will not be going ahead in May, organisers have announced.
Kate & Koji
18/03/2020 … Whisper it, but ITV could just have created that rarest of creatures – a mainstream sitcom that’s constantly funny; deserving of critical praise…
Plug pulled on Bath Comedy Festival
18/03/2020 … Organisers have pulled the plug on next month’s Bath Comedy Festival.
This fundraising idea sounds really bad...
Bobby Mair to unleash his terrible singing for charity
18/03/2020 … The coronavirus semi-quarantine could test the most loving of relationships – and that includes comedian couple Bobby Mair and Harriet Kemsley.
Self Isolating Sisters
18/03/2020 … Sisters Bebe and Jessie Cave are offering some tips for survival in self-isolation in their new video The clip promises how to be efficient, hard working incredible…
© Button Hall Productions Image Type: Portraits Programme Maker: Monumental Ghosts in the can
18/03/2020 … Shooting has wrapped on the second series of hit BBC One comedy Ghosts.
Peter Kay's Dance For Life shelved
Comic's comeback as a DJ hit by coronavirus
18/03/2020 … Peter Kay’s return to the stage has been cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak.
Radio ha-ha
Union Jack station launches a showcase for stuck-at-home comedians
18/03/2020 … Union Jack Radio has launched a new show to showcase the work of comedians left out of work from the widespread cancellations of gigs.
Comedy Central exec moves on
Lucy Robinson joins Simon Pegg and Nick Frost’s indie
18/03/2020 … Comedy Central’s head of original content Lucy Robinson is leaving the broadcaster to join Simon Pegg and Nick Frost’s company Stolen Picture.
Jeff Dunham pulls UK tour
But dates rescheduled for autumn
18/03/2020 … Jeff Dunham has pulled his Seriously!? UK tour.
Coronavirus update: March 18
The latest cancellations and other news
18/03/2020 … This page will be refreshed to provide updates over the day Top London comedy venue The Bill Murray has announced it is to close for at least two weeks –…
Comics take part in a Stay At Home festival
Robin Ince harnesses the 'show must go on' spirit
18/03/2020 … Comedians including Jo Brand, Sara Pascoe and the League Of Gentlemen’s Mark Gatiss are to take part in a new festival – to be streamed direct into people’s…
Tue 17 March 2020
London Hughes scoops an RTS award
Other gongs for Derry Girls, Fleabag and Sex Education
17/03/2020 … Comedian London Hughes has won the Royal Television Society award for best entertainment performance for her work on the rap panel show Don't Hate The Playaz.
Netflix pulls its mammoth comedy festival
...just two weeks after announcing it
17/03/2020 … Netflix has been forced to pull its mammoth comedy festival just two months after announcing it.
© BBC Charlie Cooper: I have coronavirus
This Country star posts from his sickbed
17/03/2020 … This Country star Charlie Cooper has revealed how he believes he 'most definitely' has come down with coronavirus.
Which Irish kids' TV show did Dara O Briain host?
Try our St Patrick's Day comedy trivia quiz
17/03/2020 … Test your comedy knowledge with our weekly multiple-choice trivia quiz, compiled – as always – by broadcaster and comedy historian Hayden Parker.
Which comedy venues have won this year's Chortle Awards?
More accolades revealed tomorrow!
17/03/2020 … The winners of the best comedy clubs and venues in this year’s Chortle Awards can be revealed tonight.
No live audience for Radio 4 comedies
And fans sent home from Celebrity Juice taping
17/03/2020 … Topical radio comedies The Now Show and Newsjack are to be taped without a studio audience this week.
Coronavirus update: March 17
Today's cancellations in brief
17/03/2020 … Nick Helm has postponed his upcoming Phoenix from the Flames tour.
Despite it all, more Edinburgh Fringe shows go on sale
Including Simon Amstell, Jason Manford and Reginald D Hunter
17/03/2020 … It may not be the right time to be thinking of it – but a new tranche of shows have just gone on sale for this year's Edinburgh Fringe.
Coronavirus lockdown? Here's where you can still watch stand-up comedy
...and support the comics making it
17/03/2020 … Although the world's on lockdown – and live comedy on an indefinite hiatus – no one need be without stand-up.
An interview with Covid-19
17/03/2020 … Here’s the first exclusive interview with Covid-19.
© Gareth James/CC BY-SA 2.0 Machynlleth Comedy Festival cancelled
Coronavirus lockdown claims popular event
17/03/2020 … The Machynlleth Comedy Festival has been cancelled because of the ongoing coronavirus.
'I can take apart and put together a 9mm pistol in under seven seconds'
Mel and Sue on their new Sky comedy, Hitmen
17/03/2020 … In Sky’s new comedy, Hitmen, Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc play misfits Fran and Jamie who accidentally stumbled into a career in contract killing.
Mon 16 March 2020
Sketch Off! Final 2020
Gig review by Steve Bennett at the Leicester Square Theatre, London
16/03/2020 … For a sketch comedy competition, there weren’t a lot of sketch groups.
Comedy is cancelled
No10 tells everyone to avoid pubs, clubs and theatres
16/03/2020 … Boris Johnson has effectively cancelled all live comedy for the foreseeable future by calling for an end to ‘all unnecessary social contact’ to combat…
Community comes to Netflix
...which also announces air date for last Schitt's Creek series
16/03/2020 … All six seasons of Community are coming to Netflix, the streaming giant has announced.
Tom Rosenthal pulls the rest of his tour
Spate of new coronavirus cancellations
16/03/2020 … Tom Rosenthal has become the latest comedian to pull his tour dates because of the coronavirus.
Now it's Mel and LOU
Comic Sanders joins Giedroyc’s panel show
16/03/2020 … Lou Sanders is to be the sidekick on Mel Giedroyc’s new entertainment show Unforgivable, the Dave channel has announced.
No go in Glasgow
Biggest shows of the festival called off
16/03/2020 … The biggest shows at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival have been pulled as the coronavirus lockdown tightens.
Roy Hudd dies at 83
Comedian Corrie star and music hall aficionado
16/03/2020 … Comedian Roy Hudd died yesterday at the age of 83.
Coronavirus: Panic mode vs moron mode
As depicted by comic Charlie Berens
16/03/2020 … Comic Charlie Berens contrasts two separate approaches to the coronavirus in this new video.
Modern Family's 'Stella' dies
Bulldog passes just after the final episode
16/03/2020 … The French bulldog who played Stella in Modern Family has died, just days after the filming of the final episode Beatrice was around 10 years old, The…
Kiri Pritchard-McLean wins Caroline Aherne Bursary
16/03/2020 … Comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean has won this year’s Caroline Aherne Bursary to develop her writing.
Ruth Jones's new novel delayed
Coronavirus would have affected promotional activities
16/03/2020 … It’s not just live comedy events that have been hit by coronavirus.
Emily Atack announces her second tour
16/03/2020 … Emily Atack has announced her second stand-up tour in as many years.
Sun 15 March 2020
Count Arthur Strong cast member dies
Dave Mounfield, a stalwart of the Brighton comedy scene, succumbs to cancer at 50
15/03/2020 … Comedian Dave Mounfield, a regular part of the Count Arthur Strong cast, has died at the age of 50, a few months after being diagnosed with cancer.
Mark Nelson: Once Upon A Time In The West
Glasgow International Comedy Festival review by Jay Richardson
15/03/2020 … As a cynical Scot with a strong grip on current affairs who enjoys attacking politicians with witheringly grotesque dismissals of their physical appearance, Mark…
Willis & Vere: Genius
Gig review by Steve Bennett at the Vault Festival, London
15/03/2020 … Genius is an odd beast: designed to show the improvisational skills of double act Willis and Vere, even though their strengths lie in an entirely different direction.
© ITV A refugee's last resort...
The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio
15/03/2020 … The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio.
The virus inspires us
Comics dedicate a whole night to Covid-19
15/03/2020 … While the coronavirus is closing down comedy nights left, right and centre, one enterprising promoter has decided to make the best of it.
A light take on a dark subject
The best of the week's live comedy
15/03/2020 … The best of the week's live comedy.
Sat 14 March 2020
© Comedy Central Trevor Noah pulls UK dates
...yes, it's coronavirus again
14/03/2020 … Trevor Noah has pulled his UK and Irish dates in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
This Country: The distant relatives
Outtake from this week's episode
14/03/2020 … Here's this week's deleted scene from This Country.
The mystery of he haunted theme parks...
14/03/2020 … The week's best comedy on demand.
Line of Duty: Lee Mack's 'deleted' scene
14/03/2020 … Here's the 'lost scene' from Line Of Duty, as aired on BBC's Sport Relief telethon last night.
Fri 13 March 2020
Fringe boss: We'll aim to limit cost to comedians if we have to cancel
But festival still intends to go ahead
13/03/2020 … Organisers of the Edinburgh Fringe say they are working to minimise the financial impact on performers if they were forced to pull this year’s festival…
Steve Martin and Martin Short cancel London shows
Royal Albert Hall will be empty this weekend...
13/03/2020 … Steve Martin and Martin Short have cancelled their London gigs this weekend.
Dogs cannot contract Covid-19...
13/03/2020 … Tweets of the week The World Health Organization has announced that dogs cannot contract Covid-19.
Sprog
Why be a parent when you could be a sharent?!
13/03/2020 … Why be a parent when you could be a sharent?! The new service Sprog lets you have all the perks of child-ownership with none of the responsibilities.
How to date the creepy twins from The Shining
13/03/2020 … The creepy twins from The Shining are the latest guests in the weird web interview series How To Date A Magical Creature, Lucy Trodd and Susan Harrison…
Double vision?
Rob Brydon on being mistaken for Ben Miller
13/03/2020 … Rob Brydon admits he sometimes gets mistaken for Ben Miller – and at some cost to his ego.
David Baddiel announces new Trolls dates
Short run at London's Bloomsbury Theatre
13/03/2020 … David Baddiel has announced four extra London shows for his tour Trolls: Not The Dolls.
Breakthrough award for Sex Education star
Ncuti Gatwa triumphs at Broadcasting Press Guild Awards
13/03/2020 … Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa has won the Breakthrough award at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards.
New musical from Vikki Stone and Katie Mulgrew
...and the album features Jason Manford
13/03/2020 … Comedians Vikki Stone and Katie Mulgrew have written a new musical about a troupe of loveable zoo animals, for adults.
© Damian Bennett Tim Minchin releases a new single
Watch the animated video for Leaving LA
13/03/2020 … Tim Minchin today releases the first single from his debut studio album, Leaving LA.
Melbourne Comedy Festival cancelled
'Devastating' shutdown over coronavirus fears
13/03/2020 … The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been cancelled.
Thu 12 March 2020
Squatters: New online sitcom from Foil Arms and Hog
12/03/2020 … Here's the first episode of Squatters, a new sitcom from Irish sketch trio Foil Arms and Hog.
Daniel Sloss writes his first book
Comic will 'go after every kind of relationship'
12/03/2020 … Daniel Sloss is writing his first book Everyone You Hate Is Going To Die aims to pick up the themes of his Netflix special Jigsaw – which he claims…
Eurydice Dixon's killer loses appeal
Jaymes Todd will spend at least 35 years behind bars
12/03/2020 … The killer of Melbourne comedian Eurydice Dixon will spend at least 35 years in jail after losing an appeal against his life sentence.
Altitude is a snow-go
Coronavirus measures nix comedy festival
12/03/2020 … The Altitude Comedy Festival in the Austrian Alps has become the latest stand-up event to fall victim to the coronavirus.
Breeders
12/03/2020 … Martin Freeman is the perennially good-natured screen everyman.
Bristol Comedy Garden announces its 2020 line-up
With Dara O Briain, Simon Amstell and more
12/03/2020 … Dara O Briain, Simon Amstell, Alan Davies and Sara Pascoe are among the stars heading to Bristol’s Comedy Garden, it has been announced today.
Coronavirus: Catherine Cohen pulls London gigs
12/03/2020 … Edinburgh best newcomer Catherine Cohen has pulled the rest of her London dates, becoming the latest victim of the coronavirus scare.
Coronavirus: Which comedy gigs have been hit?
Our round-up of the major cancellations
12/03/2020 … Given the government's advice that everyone should avoid social contact, such as going to pubs and theatres, the assumption now is that all comedy…
Steve Martin and Martin Short cancel Belfast gig
'In light of the ever-evolving global situation' with coronavirus
12/03/2020 … Steve Martin and Martin Short have pulled their show in Belfast tonight in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Adam Kay to write two more books
Following a ‘substantial’ seven-figure deal
12/03/2020 … Adam Kay has a signed a ‘substantial’ seven-figure deal to write two more books.
Russell Howard's European tour dates pulled
12/03/2020 … Russell Howard has announced the cancellation of almost the entrire European leg of his world tour because of coronavirus.
Major comedy benefit shelved by coronavirus
...as US talk shows ditch their live audiences
12/03/2020 … A major US comedy benefit has been shelved because of coronavirus.
Wed 11 March 2020
© Jaimie Gramston Book award for Billy Connolly's publicists
11/03/2020 … The publicity team behind the Billy Connolly anthology Tall Tales & Wee Stories have won a publishing industry award.
Just how silly is John Cleese's silly walk?
11/03/2020 … John Cleese’s silly walk is ‘exactly’ 6.
Jo Brand joins Comedy Against Living Miserably.
Line-up for final episode of Dave's stand-up showcase
11/03/2020 … Jo Brand is to host the third episode of Dave’s stand-up showcase Comedy Against Living Miserably.
© Paul Curtis Ken Dodd remembered in new mural
What a wonderful day for getting your picture drawn on a wall and shouting: 'I'm plastered!
11/03/2020 … Ken Dodd has been honoured with a new mural in his native Liverpool – two years to the day since he died.
Ambassadors for comedy
West End theatre adds stand-up shows
11/03/2020 … London’s Ambassadors Theatre is to host a new series of late-night stand-up shows.
Matt Lucas joins Bake Off
11/03/2020 … Matt Lucas is to be the new host of Great British Bake Off.
Ed Gamble to launch heavy metal podcast
Lifers coming to Spotify next week
11/03/2020 … Ed Gamble is to launch a new heavy metal podcast.
Chris Ramsey joins Little Mix
Comic to front new BBC One talent hunt
11/03/2020 … Chris Ramsey is to host a major new BBC One entertainment show.
Stand-up comedian during coronavirus self-isolation
Marek Larwood just has to keep performing...
11/03/2020 … The coronavirus is causing widespread cancellation of public gatherings across the world – although the UK comedy scene has escaped unscathed so far.
The jury convenes...
More cast announced for the US remake of James Acaster's courtroom sitcom
11/03/2020 … More casting has been revealed for the US remake of James Acaster’s BBC comedy pilot We The Jury.
Tue 10 March 2020
Who is the secret A-lister playing This Country's nan?
10/03/2020 … This Country fans are trying to figure out which secret A-list star played Kurtan Mucklowe's nan after she made a cameo appearance in last night’s…
Who beat Les Dennis in the first ever Celebrity Boxing match?
10/03/2020 … Test your comedy knowledge with our weekly multiple-choice trivia quiz, compiled – as always – by broadcaster and comedy historian Hayden Parker.
'Titania McGrath' writes a woke children's book
10/03/2020 … Woke social justice parody Titania McGrath has written a spoof children's book, Chortle can reveal.
© C4 It's weird trying to imagine yourself as a ‘comedy character’...
Mae Martin on her new Channel 4 and Netflix show, Feel Good
10/03/2020 … What was the genesis of Feel Good - how did you and Joe Hampson come together to write this story? Channel 4 approached me about writing a scripted pilot off…
UK dates for Doug Stanhope and Maria Bamford
10/03/2020 … American comics Doug Stanhope and Maria Bamford have announced UK dates later this year.
Mon 09 March 2020
© Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0 TJ Miller announces UK date
US comic defies #MeToo claim to keep touring
09/03/2020 … Deadpool and Silicon Valley star TJ Miller has announced a rare UK stand-up gig – as he attempts to continue his career in the wake of sexual abuse allegations.
Brilliant! Fast Show team to reunite
For a belated 25th anniversary celebration
09/03/2020 … The cast of The Fast Show are to reunite for a belated 25th anniversary celebration, in which they will reprise some of their favourite creations.
Ghee, I'm sorry!
Sunday Brunch serves butter to vegan Jon RIchardson
09/03/2020 … Sunday Brunch host Simon Rimmer has had to apologise after feeding Jon Richardson a dish that broke his vegan diet On yesterday’s show,…
Inside No 9: The Stakeout
09/03/2020 … The fifth series of Inside No 9 goes out on a high tonight – though that’s a position it’s rarely left.
Russell Brand pulls gig over coronavirus
Infected woman had previously attended venue
09/03/2020 … Russell Brand has pulled a sold-out tour show because of the coronavirus The comedian had been due to perform his show at the Perth Concert Hall in Western Australia…
Amazon reveals its Australian stand-up release schedule
09/03/2020 … Amazon Prime has confirmed the release of its stand-up specials from ten Australian comedy acts including Celia Pacquola, Alice Fraser and Lano & Woodley Lucy,…
Jo Brand joins Latitude
09/03/2020 … Jo Brand has been named as the final comedy headliner for this year’s Latitude festival.
Did I play a part in Dermot Morgan's death?
Tommy Tiernan ponders the role of his energetic Father Ted scene
09/03/2020 … Tommy Tiernan has opened up about the inadvertent role he may have played in the death of Father Ted star Dermot Morgan.
Molesworth: The first trailer
With Matt Lucas as the tearaway schoolboy
09/03/2020 … Animators have released the first trailer for the new Molesworth movie, starring Matt Lucas as the tearaway schoolboy.
BBC orders TWO more series of Inside No 9
Taking Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith's show to its seventh season
09/03/2020 … The BBC has commissioned TWO more series of Inside No 9.
Sun 08 March 2020
The 'girl you wish you hadn't started a conversation with at a party' explains the coronavirus
08/03/2020 … The 'girl you wish you hadn't started a conversation with at a party' explains the coronavirus on SNL last night.
Flogging a dead parrot
How the first Monty Python pitch meeting could have gone...
08/03/2020 … Could this have been what happened when Monty Python first pitched their sketch show to the BBC 50 years ago? Comedy writers Lorelei Mathias with Emmy McMarrow…
A breeding ground for laughs
Best of the week's TV and radio comedy
08/03/2020 … The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio.
Sat 07 March 2020
Kurtan explains internet memes
Another outtake from This Country
07/03/2020 … The BBC has released another outtake from This Country.
Jon Culshaw to play Bill Bryson
In a stage adaptation of Notes From A Small Island
07/03/2020 … Jon Culshaw is to play Bill Bryson in a new stage adaptation of the writer's Notes From A Small Island.
Pier-reviewed comedy
The week's best comedy on demand
07/03/2020 … The week's best comedy on demand.
David Jason: I could have played Father Ted
But Only Fools star said the character 'wasn't for him'
07/03/2020 … Sir David Jason has claimed he was in line to play Father Ted – but turned it down because the character was too ‘pious’.
© April Rose Pengilly/Instagram Russell Brand joins Neighbours
Comic films a cameo appearance
07/03/2020 … Russell Brand has joined the cast of Neighbours for a cameo appearance.
Fri 06 March 2020
New Frankie Howerd play to open
..about his secret relationship
06/03/2020 … A new play about the clandestine relationship between comedy legend Frankie Howerd and his lover Dennis Heymer is to have its world premiere next month.
Our best chance of stopping the coronavirus
06/03/2020 … Tweets of the week I’m stocking up on photos of empty supermarket shelves.
Adam Kay to write a children's book
Comic and medic offers a guide to the human body
06/03/2020 … Medic-turned-comic-turned-bestselling author Adam Kay is writing a children's book.
It's not worth the Gamble...
Ed cancels his European tour over coronavirus fears
06/03/2020 … Ed Gamble has had to pull all his European dates because of the coronavirus epidemic.
Plesaance hikes its fees
More costs for comedians playing the Edinburgh Fringe
06/03/2020 … The Pleasance has hiked its fees for comedians performing at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe.
Sir Humphrey and Jim Hacker return
Simon Callow to star in new play about Yes Minister's characters in their obscurity
06/03/2020 … Yes Minister’s Sir Humphrey Appleby and Jim Hacker are to be revived in a new stage play.
Daniel Sloss's X to hit Australian cinemas
...as UK box office take revealed
06/03/2020 … Daniel Sloss’s stand-up special X is to be shown in Australian cinemas The show, filmed at the Enmore Theatre in Sydney, will be screened in…
Vic's all art
Comic – and his son – making a film about artistic comedians
06/03/2020 … Vic Reeves is to be the focus of a new film about artistic comedians, Chortle can reveal.
How to date a Medusa
With Susan Harrison and Alex Holland
06/03/2020 … Journalist Toby Vanilla tries to discover the low-down about Medusa's love life in the latest episode of the web series How To Date A Magical Creature.
The Kids In The Hall make a TV comeback
Six-part series for Amazon Prime
06/03/2020 … Cult Canadian sketch troupe The Kids in the Hall are reuniting for a new eight-part series on Amazon Prime.
Thu 05 March 2020
Stewart Lee knows where you can stick your mobile phone...
Comic takes drastic action against punters filming his gigs
05/03/2020 … Big-name comics such as Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock and Hannah Gadsby prevent fans from recording shows by demanding audiences lock their phones in custom-made pouches.
© BBC/Stephen Perry/Wall to Wall Greg Davies pilots BBC comedy about a crime scene cleaner
British remake of a German cult hit
05/03/2020 … Greg Davies is piloting a dark BBC One sitcom about a specialist crime scene cleaner.
nbc.jpg "Get paid to watch The Office | US firm offers $1,000 to view 45 episodes")
Get paid to watch The Office
US firm offers $1,000 to view 45 episodes
05/03/2020 … Have you ever thought: ‘I wouldn’t watch that show if you paid me?’ Well, now that’s a possibility.
Netflix special for Phil Wang
Comic to tape Philly Philly Wang Wang in London in May
05/03/2020 … Phil Wang is to record a Netflix special.
Adrian Edmondson joins Sara Pascoe sitcom
Alongside Juliet Stephenson, Cariad Lloyd and Scroobius Pip
05/03/2020 … Adrian Edmondson has joined the cast of Sara Pascoe’s sitcom Out Of Her Mind.
Meet the American Mucklowes
This Country remake casts its leads
05/03/2020 … The American remake of This Country has cast its new Mucklowes.
Elis James and John Robins have 'the funniest show on radio'
Award wins for Toby Foster and Jacob Hawley too
05/03/2020 … Elis James and John Robins have the funniest show on radio – according to the biggest awards in the business.
Billy Connolly: Why I won't do Parkinson's events
Comic also confirms his retirement from stand-up
05/03/2020 … He may be one of the most famous people to have been diagnosed with the condition, but Billy Connolly says he won’t take part in events linked to Parkinson’s…
Wed 04 March 2020
He's doing something Reich
Comic Leo wins 2Northdown new act contest
04/03/2020 … Leo Reich has won the £500 new act competition run by London venue 2Northdown.
Jacob Hawley: Faliraki
Gig review by Steve Bennett at the Soho Theatre, London
04/03/2020 … Jacob Hawley had a clear sense of identity from the moment he exploded on to the comedy scene as a white, working-class lad who has seen the error of his bantz.
They slayed it!
Buffy creator Joss Whedon makes a surprise appearance at comics' Buffy tribute
04/03/2020 … Buffy The Vampire Slayer fans who turned up to watch comedians sing songs from the cult show’s famed musical episode got a huge surprise last night – when…
Juliet Stevenson to play Sara Pascoe's mum
Cariad Lloyd also cast in fellow comic's BBC sitcom
04/03/2020 … Juliet Stevenson is to play Sara Pascoe's mother in the comic's BBC Two sitcom, Chortle can reveal.
Who has been nominated in the 2020 Chortle Awards?
04/03/2020 … Jonny Pelham, Jessica Fostekew, and Catherine Cohen are all double nominees in this year’s Chortle Awards.
Nick Helm makes his feature film debut
Opposite Arrested Development's Alia Shawkat in a movie about a girl band
04/03/2020 … Nick Helm is to star in his first feature film, alongside Arrested Development's Alia Shawkat.
Susan Calman takes over Jane McDonald's travel shows
Channel 5 signs Strictly comedian
04/03/2020 … Susan Calman is the new Jane McDonald.
Spitting Image IS coming back
Streaming service BritBox orders two new series
04/03/2020 … Spitting Image is to return to screens after 25 years.
Tue 03 March 2020
Stewart Lee just listed flavours of crisps – it was so funny
Laura Lexx on her most memorable gigs
03/03/2020 … Laura Lexx, who is currently on tour with her stand-up show Knee Jerk, recalls her five most memorable gigs.
© Matt Humphrey Now Phoebe Waller-Bridge is up for an Olivier
03/03/2020 … Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s dominance of the awards season has become so complete that she has just been nominated for her fourth and fifth major gong today alone.
© BBC TV festival to celebrate comedy shows
Dave Allen, Ricky Gervais, The Goodies and more
03/03/2020 … Dave Allen, The Goodies and Ricky Gervais are to be celebrated at this year’s BFI and Radio Times TV Festival.
What was the name of the family in ALF?
03/03/2020 … Test your comedy knowledge with our weekly multiple-choice trivia quiz, compiled – as always – by broadcaster and comedy historian Hayden Parker.
Jeremy Hardy Speaks Volumes
03/03/2020 … It surely goes without saying that Jeremy Hardy’s death last year at the age of 57 was a loss to comedy.
© C4 Comedians up for Royal Television Society awards
Comedy dominates the breakthrough categoty
03/03/2020 … Aisling Bea, Tim Renkow and Motherland star Tanya Moodie are up for the breakthrough accolade in this year’s Royal Television Society awards.
Comics make the Soccer Aid squad
– and get to play at Old Trafford
03/03/2020 … Russell Howard, Joel Dommett, Lee Mack, Mo Gilligan and Tom Davis are to play football at Old Trafford, in the annual Soccer Aid fundraiser.
© Channel 4 Hugo Boss responds to Joe Lycett's name change
03/03/2020 … If you thought fashion house Hugo Boss might react to the the news that comic Joe Lycett changed his name to match theirs with something in the same…
Mon 02 March 2020
James Veitch to front US comedy show
Lisa Kudrow and Kristen Schaal among the guests
02/03/2020 … British stand-up James Veitch is to host a comedy show on new US streaming service Quibi.
Standing Up, Falling Down
New film about a failing open-spot comedian, reviewed by Jay Richardson
02/03/2020 … Films about stand-ups tend to focus on the unsuccessful – mindful of the difficulty, perhaps, of recreating those lightning-in-a-bottle moments of the best…
New podcast from John Kearns and Mat Ewins
02/03/2020 … Mat Ewins and John Kearns are launching an improvised podcast in which they attempt solve some of the world’s biggest mysteries.
Netflix to stage the world's starriest comedy festival
Jack Whitehall, Russell Howard, Alan Carr and more to represent the UK
02/03/2020 … Netflix has conquered the realm of the stand-up special – and now the streaming service is staging the most star-studded comedy festival there has ever…
© Rose d'Or Meet John Cleese... at a price
Comedy star offers personal video conversations
02/03/2020 … John Cleese is offering fans the chance to ‘meet’ him via video call for up to £235 a pop.
What is a dream?
02/03/2020 … The BBC has released an outtake from last week's episode of This Country.
Sun 01 March 2020
© Channel 4 Joe Lycett legally changes his name to Hugo Boss
Deed Poll action to wind up the fashion giant
01/03/2020 … Joe Lycett has legally changed his name to Hugo Boss in a bid to take on the fashion empire.
© UKTV I think the seaside does something to people…
Writers Martin Collins and Alex Finch on their new comedy Sandylands
01/03/2020 … This week Gold airs its new comedy Sandylands, featuring the likes of Sanjeev Bhaskhar, David Walliams, Simon Bird and Hugh Bonneville.
Shagged, married… overjoyed!
Jemma Bennett explains why she is such a fan of Chris and Rosie Ramsey’s podcast
01/03/2020 … Chris and Rosie Ramsey are to break a world record for the world's biggest live podcast audience – and I’m not surprised.
© Sky TV Steve and Rob's Greek odyssey
The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio
01/03/2020 … The best of the week's comedy on TV and radio.
Tommy Tiernan's back on tour!
01/03/2020 … The best of the week’s live comedy.
West End role for Steve Pemberton
Opposite Kick Ass’s Aaron Taylor-Johnso
01/03/2020 … Steve Pemberton is to star in the West End premiere of award-winning dark comedy The Pillowman.