8legs: Riyadh comedy festival

#1 out of 1

‘I should not be allowed to do interviews’: Nish Kumar on courting controversy and clashing with comics

Kumar discusses his new tour, Angry Humour from a Really Nice Guy, and its critique of how some comedy targets autocrats.
Kumar accuses some peers of participating in a cultural-washing of autocrats during international gigs.
He criticizes figures like Jimmy Carr and other comics for performing at the Saudi festival.
Kumar explains he turned down big paydays to stay aligned with his ethics, including Last One Laughing.
The interview notes Kumar’s career arc from fringe shows to The Mash Report and his global reach.
Kumar describes his audience as diverse, spanning teens to septuagenarians.
He reflects on parents' sacrifices and his own financial position as part of a broader critique of the economy.
Kumar cites PTSD and ADHD as part of his personal context shaping his comedy.
He connects his UK-focused material to global audiences while touring abroad.
The Guardian interview frames Kumar as a necessary voice in contemporary comedy.

Vote 0