Leicester Comedy Festival fails to pay hundreds of performers

Hundreds of comedians have not been paid by the Leicester Comedy Festival, one of the UK's largest comedy events, which ran from 4 to 22 February 2025 and attracted about 100,000 spectators and more than 500 acts. Performers including Sir Stephen Fry, Sara Pascoe, and Rosie Holt are among those owed money. Comedian Ben Alborough, owed nearly £2,000, expressed frustration, noting that pay issues are common. Canadian stand-up Zoe Brownstone, owed £180, said she felt positive about the festival but was disappointed by the non-payment. Event organizer Rachael Johnson, owed £600 for hosting two shows, said she has paid her acts and team but is out of pocket. Michael Harris-Wakelam, CEO of non-profit Big Difference which runs the festival, cited cashflow problems and said organizers are seeking bridging loans from banks. The Live Comedy Association and Equity union highlighted a lack of support for grassroots comedy, warning that the UK risks losing diverse voices. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport acknowledged comedy's importance but offered no immediate solution. Despite the issues, Alborough said he would return.