Comedians share their defining moments

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has launched a new podcast that explores the pivotal moments in comedians' careers.

The Callback, hosted by stand-up Claire Hooper, brings together pairs of comedians to discuss shared experiences that shaped their professional lives – from first discovering their love of comedy to chance encounters that led to major collaborations.

'Comedians are entertaining on stage, but it's backstage where the chats get really good,' said Hooper. 'Talking with artists about their big moments and watching them compare notes with a mate who was there too, I'm living for these weekly conversations and can't wait for the pod world to listen along.'

The first two episodes, available now, feature Sammy J, Janty Blair and Wes Snelling. New episodes will be released every Thursday from February 12 until just after the festival ends in April

The 12-episode series is available on major podcast platforms, with video versions released weekly on the Melbourne International Comedy Festival YouTube channel. 

The festival runs from March 25 to April 19

Published: 12 Feb 2026