Al Porter

Al Porter

Al Porter is an Irish comedian, actor, writer and radio broadcaster from Tallaght, Dublin. He began acting at age 10 and performed as a dame in Christmas pantomime productions at the Olympia Theatre. At 22, he headlined Dublin venue Vicar Street for three nights.

In 2017, Porter joined Today FM, presenting a lunchtime show and presented Blind Date on TV3. Later that year, Porter resigned from Today FM following allegations of inappropriate behaviour. He also stepped away from his television and pantomime roles.

Investigations into allegations of sexual assault at St Patrick's University Hospital in 2015 revealed no evidence. In November 2019, a separate sexual assault charge was dropped. In October 2019, Porter pleaded guilty to obstructing an arrest and received a dismissal after the judge noted his guilty plea, apology, and lack of prior convictions.

In July 2022, Porter announced his intention to return to comedy after a five-year absence, and made a return to the Edinburgh Fringe the following year.

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Prosecutors drop their case against Al Porter

'I have always denied any wrongdoing'

Irish prosecutors have dropped their sexual assault  case against comedian Al Porter.

The Director of Public Prosecutions told Dublin District Court yesterday that the charge could now be struck out.

A legal order had been in place preventing media from naming Mr Porter – who was charged under his real name, Alan Kavanagh – but that was lifted yesterday. However reporting restrictions remain on further details of the now-abandoned case. 

The 26-year-old comedian, who has always  denied any wrongdoing, issued a statement on social media.

It said: ’Today the DPP has directed to drop their case against me.

‘I would like to thank my family, friends and solicitors, Michael Staines and Aoife Corridan, for their support.

‘For two long and very anxious years I have co-operated fully and respected the legal process.

‘I was in complete agreement with waiving anonymity today, even before learning that the DPP had decided to withdraw the charge, because I have always denied any wrongdoing in this case.

‘I have no further comment at this time.’

Porter was enjoying a successful career – including hosting a radio show on Today FM and  the Irish version of Blind Date – when claims of misconduct first surfaced two years ago. 

Since then he has kept a very low profile, but some reports suggest he will soon be seeking a return to the stage now charges have been dropped.

The reporting restrictions were in place to protect the anonymity of the accuser.

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Published: 28 Nov 2019

Past Shows

Edinburgh Fringe 2015

Al Porter Is Yours

Al Porter Is Yours


Edinburgh Fringe 2016

Al Porter: At Large


Edinburgh Fringe 2017

Al Porter in Campus Maximus


Edinburgh Fringe 2023

Al Porter: A Work in Progress


Agent

We do not currently hold contact details for Al Porter's agent. If you are a comic or agent wanting your details to appear here, for a one-off fee of £59, email steve@chortle.co.uk.

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