Comedy festival to host live chat with Stephen Fry

Leicester Comedy Festival will host a live discussion with Sir Stephen Fry

The actor and writer Sir Stephen Fry has been announced as one of the features of next year's line-up at the Leicester Comedy Festival.

Organisers said the 2026 event would host 700 shows and showcase "the brightest talents of comedy", including Maisie Adams, Sara Pascoe, Chris McCausland, Paul Merton, Milton Jones and Sue Perkins.

Sir Stephen will be part of a live discussion with the founder of the festival, Geoff Rowe, on Sunday 8 February at the city's De Montfort Hall.

Ahead of the event next year, Sir Stephen said: "For one day I will be a Leicesterian and I do hope you will be able to join us."

The discussion is being held in memory of Sir Stephen's friend and Leicester Comedy Festival patron Tony Slattery, who died in January after a heart attack.

'Bring people together'

Mr Rowe added: "Stephen was a great friend of Tony Slattery and this exclusive event is being held in memory of Tony, who supported the festival back in 1994 when he agreed to be a patron, alongside Norman Wisdom.

"The proceeds from the event will help support the festival, particularly projects and activities which engage with, and support, people living with poor mental health."

At its 33rd edition, organisers said the event would expand with shows in the Harborough and Blaby districts.

Charlotte Laidet, festivals and programme director at Big Difference Company - the charity behind the festival - added: "Leicester Comedy Festival celebrates the art of comedy in all its forms and supports any voice that needs to be heard.

"This year we're particularly excited to see more venues and shows taking part in The UK Kids' Comedy Festival, and events extending to more county areas.

"We're proud to champion two vibrant, welcoming festivals that bring people together."