The live comedy scene in the UK is grappling with an alarming prevalence of sexual harassment, leaving many female performers vulnerable and often without adequate support. During a session with MPs, comedian Nina Gilligan highlighted the pervasive issues women encounter in the industry, where informal networks have become their primary means of protection against harassment.
The Harsh Reality for Women in Comedy
Gilligan, who co-founded the advocacy group Get Off Live Comedy, revealed the grim realities faced by female comedians. She stated that many women resort to “whisper networks”—private channels, such as WhatsApp groups, where they share experiences and warnings about unsafe environments and individuals. This practice, though vital for safety, exposes them to significant legal and professional risks.
“I know women who have shared information and then received cease and desist notices, along with accusations of defamation,” Gilligan informed the cross-party women and equalities committee, which was chaired by Labour MP Sarah Owen. “The quiet yet damaging threat of being sidelined or blacklisted by promoters in this tightly knit circuit is ever-present.”
A Culture of Silence and Fear
The lack of formal protections and the fragmented structure of the comedy industry compound the issues at hand. Research conducted by Get Off Live Comedy, which surveyed over 800 individuals, revealed that more than 20% had either witnessed or experienced sexual harassment. Additionally, over 70% reported being informed about inappropriate conduct by their colleagues.
Gilligan noted that the informal nature of the comedy world leaves women with few avenues for recourse when faced with misconduct. Fellow witnesses, including journalist Rachael Healy, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the frequency of serious sexual offenses is alarming. “It’s incredibly widespread and endemic—it’s not just the performers who face these threats,” Healy stated. “Stage managers, venue operators, and producers are also affected. Unfortunately, the absence of HR departments and structured support systems exacerbates the problem.”
Balancing Career and Caring Responsibilities
The testimonies also shed light on how personal responsibilities, such as childcare, further complicate the landscape for female comedians. The combination of low average earnings—around £21,000 in 2025—and the precarious nature of gig work creates an environment where many women feel they must choose between their careers and family life.
Comedian Ola Labib lamented the troubling choices many female performers are forced to make. “I’ve seen female comedians delay having children because they fear it will hinder their careers,” she shared. “It’s heartbreaking to witness how this industry can deter women from pursuing both motherhood and their passion.”
Systemic Changes Needed
As the committee continues to investigate the barriers women face in the comedy sector, there is a growing consensus that systemic change is imperative. The need for robust protections, clearer reporting processes, and a supportive infrastructure has never been more urgent.
Gilligan, Labib, and Healy’s testimonies illustrate a critical call for action. The comedy industry must evolve to safeguard its performers—especially women—ensuring that they can pursue their careers without fear of harassment or discrimination.
Why it Matters
The ongoing struggles of female comedians shine a light on broader societal issues surrounding gender equality and workplace safety. As these women bravely share their experiences, it becomes clear that the comedy circuit reflects larger systemic failures in protecting vulnerable individuals. Acknowledging and addressing these problems is not just about improving conditions in comedy; it is a crucial step towards fostering a safer, more equitable environment for all in the workplace. By amplifying these voices, we can inspire necessary changes that promote respect, safety, and inclusivity across every sector.