Russell Hicks Comedian: Rising Star of British Stand-Up in 2025
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 5
- 14 min read
Russell Hicks comedian is making big waves in the British stand-up scene, and honestly, it’s about time more people caught on. Originally from California, Russell’s journey from the US to the UK stage has been anything but boring. He’s got this wild mix of improv, sharp comebacks, and real audience banter that you just don’t see every day. Whether he’s on tour, popping up on TV, or just riffing with fans online, Russell Hicks is quickly becoming a name you can’t miss in British comedy for 2025.
Key Takeaways
Russell Hicks comedian started out in California before moving to the UK, where he’s now a top name in stand-up.
His comedy style is all about quick thinking, improv, and chatting with the crowd – no two shows are ever the same.
Russell has headlined big clubs across the UK, played international festivals, and supported some of the country’s biggest comedy stars.
He’s appeared on TV for Channel 4, ITV, and Amazon Prime, and even does voiceovers for major brands.
Russell has built a huge following on TikTok and social media, keeping fans laughing both on stage and online.
Russell Hicks Comedian: Journey from California to UK Comedy Fame
Russell Hicks grew up under the bright Californian sun. His early days were nothing too far from what you'd expect, with a mix of everyday mischief, a hint of Restless American energy, and the kind of curiosity that always had him asking, 'What if?' Growing up in the States, especially California, meant he was surrounded not just by beaches and highways but also a longstanding tradition of quick-witted comedy and bold personalities. Stand-up was never just about telling jokes; it was about sparking something in the room.
Raised in California with an early taste for mischief
Influenced by American stand-up legends performing at clubs like The Improv and Laugh Factory
Developed a knack for off-the-cuff jokes from a young age
The American stand-up scene, with its fast pace and bold crowd work, gave Russell his first rush for riffing with strangers—something that’d stick with him far past his teens.
It wasn’t exactly a carefully mapped plan. Russell decided to move to the UK as much out of opportunity as a hunch that British audiences would get his style. He noticed that the gigs in London had a different atmosphere; the crowds seemed to reward riskier material and rewarded the kind of playful battle with the room he loved.
Russell Hicks bet everything on the move, believing that the UK comedy scene was the place to evolve his act. There were setbacks, of course—tiny clubs with six people in the room, long nights on the night bus, the gnawing feeling of being an outsider. But these were outweighed by the response from crowds who clearly felt something fresh was happening.
Here's a quick look at Russell’s move timeline:
Year | Event |
|---|---|
2014 | First visits to UK comedy clubs |
2016 | Settled in London permanently |
2018 | Began regular UK headline gigs |
2023 | Won Channel 4's Captive Audience |
Fitting into a new scene is tough, but Russell found inventive ways to make his mark. Instead of sticking to a rigid set, he’d improvise whole routines, quickly making a name for himself with British acts and bookers. Recurring gigs at standout venues like The Stand, Komedia, and The Comedy Clubhouse earned him a reputation as someone who could keep an audience—any audience—hooked.
Quickly created a devoted live following
Regular headliner at major UK clubs
Built connections with British and international comedians through festival shows
There’s something unique about how Russell moved from the West Coast to the British Isles—not just a change in scenery, but a full embrace of a different kind of comedy, one where his unpredictability wasn’t just tolerated, it was celebrated.
The Unique Stand-Up Style of Russell Hicks Comedian
Improvisation and Spontaneity on Stage
Russell Hicks is the type of comedian who never settles for a script. He walks onto the stage with a handful of ideas and then just goes with whatever happens in the room. Improvisation for Russell isn’t just a tool, it’s the backbone of every set he performs. This means no two shows are ever the same—he's always reading the crowd, riffing off comments, and pulling new threads out of thin air. It’s risky, but it has built him a loyal base of fans who want that sense of unpredictability.
Russell rarely does the same joke twice in the same way.
He thrives on the unpredictability of each audience.
His comfort with improvisation lets the set move naturally, not forced.
Audiences keep coming back because they never know what they're going to get. Russell treats each gig like a brand new adventure, and there's a real energy in the room when he’s flying by the seat of his pants.
Razor-Sharp Wit and Audience Interaction
Chatting with the crowd is where Russell really stands out from other comics. He’s quick to pick up on anything—a funny laugh, someone’s outfit, a weird comment from the back. There’s always something to bounce off. His comebacks are quick, but never cruel, so people leave laughing even if they get roasted.
Effortless handling of hecklers and banter
Turning interruptions into proper bits
Warm but fast responses make the audience feel involved
If you like a comedian who knows how to work a room without it feeling staged, his act nails it every time.
Influence of American and British Comedy Traditions
Moving from California shaped how Russell performs, but so did soaking up UK comedy clubs. You get a blend in his shows: that American confidence and energy, mixed with dry British humour, and even a touch of sarcasm. He draws on both scenes, cherry-picking what works, so his comedy feels fresh to UK audiences.
Here's a quick comparison of the stand-up influences in his style:
Element | American Comedy | British Comedy | Russell Hicks’ Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
Energy | High-paced, bold | Understated | Uses American energy, tailored for British crowds |
Material Preparation | Often rehearsed | More experimental | Focuses on improvisation and spontaneity |
Audience Engagement | Direct, confident | Dry, sometimes reserved | Combines friendly banter and sharp interaction |
Russell’s stand-up is a mash-up of the best from both worlds, making each show unpredictable and packed with quick thinking.
Russell Hicks Comedian: Notable Performances and Tours
Russell Hicks has made a serious mark across the UK, not just with his original material but with some truly memorable performances over the last few years. What stands out most is how every one of his sets feels fresh, as if no two shows are ever exactly the same. Whether he’s riffing off the crowd or blending quick-witted punchlines, Russell’s live shows are always unpredictable—and that’s probably why people keep coming back for more.
Headlining Top British Comedy Venues
Russell has headlined some of the most popular clubs in the UK. These venues are often landmarks for emerging and celebrated comics alike, and Hicks has become a familiar—and very welcome—face at many of them.
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of some well-known spots he’s played:
The Stand (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle)
The Comedy Store (London)
Glee Club (Birmingham, Nottingham, Cardiff)
Komedia (Brighton, Bath)
Camden Eye pub's weekly shows (live stand-up comedy for £3)
He’s gained a reputation for being a go-to headliner, regularly featured alongside well-known TV comics.
Memorable UK and International Festival Appearances
If you talk to fans, one thing they’ll mention is catching Russell at a festival—because festival crowds seem to bring out his extra gear. Over the course of his career, he’s delivered memorable sets at:
Edinburgh Fringe (multiple years, including recording three different hours in 2016)
Prague Fringe Festival (winner, 2024)
Leicester Comedy Festival
Various international gigs in the US—LA’s Improv and the legendary Laugh Factory
Russell’s festival shows are celebrated for pushing his improvisational style to new limits, often leading to packed rooms and enthusiastic word-of-mouth.
Stand-Out Work in Progress and UK Tour Shows
Every year, Russell runs multiple work-in-progress gigs and plans full UK tours, each time tweaking and shaping his material on the go. This approach gives fans a peek behind the curtain at his creative process, and often ends up with moments you won’t see anywhere else.
Here’s a concise table highlighting some recent tour activity:
Date | Venue | Event Type |
|---|---|---|
Mar 2025 | Amersham Arms, London | Work in Progress Preview |
Oct 2025 | Portland Arms, Cambridge | Headliner Night |
Summer 2024 | Edinburgh Fringe | Festival Run |
Russell’s road shows are unpredictable—he’s known for switching up material, reading the room, and sometimes abandoning scripts entirely if the night’s crowd energy calls for it.
Each tour features fresh topics and interactive segments
Regularly joined by special guests and rising comedians
Engages the crowd in ways few comics dare to try
If you get a chance, catching Russell Hicks on tour is a must—it’s comedy at its rawest and most in-the-moment.
Television, Acting and Voice Work by Russell Hicks Comedian
Russell Hicks is not just a familiar face at live comedy shows—he’s also leaving quite an impression on TV screens and beyond. His sharp wit and unpredictable style translate just as well to television and voice work as they do to the stage. Let’s take a closer look at his media presence across acting, television, and voiceovers.
Key TV Appearances on Channel 4, ITV and Amazon Prime
Russell’s stand-up might have brought him fame, but television has really helped solidify his place in British comedy. He’s been seen on some of the UK’s biggest networks:
Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast – bringing comic riffs to a morning audience
ITV’s Stand Up Sketch Show – performing and writing sketches with his usual spontaneity
Amazon Prime’s Lovestruck High – showing off his charm to a global streaming audience
Fresh line-ups and fast-paced showcases are his specialty, much like those seen at Camden Eye Comedy, where stars often break into TV from the club circuit.
Writing and Acting in The Stand Up Sketch Show
With The Stand Up Sketch Show on ITV, Russell moved beyond just performing. He took a hands-on approach:
Writing original sketches based on real-life stand-up routines
Playing lead roles that blend improvisation and scripted comic moments
Collaborating closely with other comedians to develop fresh TV-friendly material
This dual role in both writing and acting brings a lot of his club energy straight to viewers’ living rooms.
Voiceover Success with Major Brands
Russell’s quick thinking and distinctive voice haven’t gone unnoticed by advertisers either. His voiceover gigs include work for:
Sky Comedy
Great Big Story
Booking.com
These jobs demand something a little different from stand-up—tight scripts, quick turnarounds, and the ability to nail a brand’s style in just a few takes. Russell’s flexibility makes him a good fit for these projects.
Network/Company | Project | Role |
|---|---|---|
Channel 4 | The Big Breakfast | Comic Guest |
ITV | The Stand Up Sketch Show | Writer/Lead Actor |
Amazon Prime | Lovestruck High | Featured Performer |
Sky Comedy | Promotional Spots | Voice Actor |
Great Big Story | Short-Form Narration | Voice Actor |
Booking.com | Advertisement | Voice Actor |
Russell’s TV, acting, and voice work show how quickly a comic can switch gears—and why he’s become such a go-to for producers looking for someone who can do more than just stand-up.
Critical Acclaim and Industry Recognition for Russell Hicks Comedian
Russell Hicks has come a long way in just a few short years, and the industry has taken notice in a big way. His improvisational style and sharp crowd work have brought in plenty of fans, but it’s the comedians and critics who’ve been really talking up his shows lately. Russell’s got a knack for turning risk into pure gold on stage, and more than a few big names have called him one of the most exciting acts in the country.
Prestigious Awards and Nominations
Russell’s name keeps coming up when awards season rolls around:
Winner of the 2023 Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year
Winner, Prague Fringe Festival 2024
Nominated for the Bridport Creative Writing Short Story Award
Channel 4’s Captive Audience Winner (2023)
Year | Award | Result |
|---|---|---|
2023 | Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year | Winner |
2023 | Channel 4 Captive Audience | Winner |
2023 | Bridport Creative Writing Short Story | Nominee |
2024 | Prague Fringe Festival | Winner |
These are just some of the key prizes that have cemented his place in British comedy.
Praise from Comedy Critics and Industry Peers
Comedy critics have had a lot of good things to say about Russ. He’s got reviews from Chortle, Time Out, and a handful of well-known comics:
“Scarily good” – Daniel Sloss
“There’s no comic quite like Russell Hicks”
Regularly described as unpredictable and captivating
Peers also bring him up as someone who gives something different every night. There's no recycled material; it's live every time.
Russell Hicks is one of those comics people come back to see twice in a week because they know every show’s a new experience. Familiar material just isn’t his thing – and that’s what makes him a proper stand-out in British comedy.
Influence on Fellow Stand-Up Comedians
Russell’s influence is showing up all over the circuit and amongst new acts:
Younger comedians reference his improvisational spirit as encouragement to break away from strictly scripted acts.
Large number of established acts are inviting him to open or co-headline, a sure sign of respect.
Comics report they’re borrowing from his crowd interaction style to liven up their own shows.
The feeling among comedians is that Russell's not afraid to take risks, and that energy is inspiring a fair few comics to take their own shows in new directions. Even if someone's not a fan of off-the-cuff humour, they have to admit his style has shaken up the scene for the better.
Russell Hicks Comedian: Social Media and Audience Engagement
Moving away from traditional comedy club marketing, Russell Hicks has become a real presence on social media. He’s reached hundreds of thousands online, especially through TikTok, where the unpredictability of his live shows translates well to short-form video. Fans never really know what he’ll post next—off-the-cuff zingers, crowd reactions, behind-the-scenes mishaps. You’re as likely to see a post about a late-night gig as a random thought about bus travel in Birmingham. He’s built this online following almost organically, just by being himself, sharing mishaps, and keeping things honest.
Building a Huge TikTok Following
TikTok really changed the game for Russell:
Platform | Followers | Likes | Engagement Style |
|---|---|---|---|
TikTok | 275,000+ | 5.9 million | Clips, riffs, crowd bits |
Instagram | 40,000+ | — | Stories, photos, reels |
Twitter | 17,000+ | — | Jokes, gig updates |
Three things set his TikTok apart:
Unpredictable clips – new jokes and spontaneous crowd work every week
Quick reactions to current events and trends
Vids from backstage or right after shows, so the content always feels fresh
Interactive Online Content and Livestreams
He doesn’t just post; he talks to people. You’ll see Russell chatting live, answering questions in livestreams, or even inviting fans to throw out topics for riffing. There’s a sense that he actually reads the comments—sometimes calling fans out (in a friendly way) or sharing bits suggested by the audience.
Here’s what pops up most often:
Weekly livestreams from train stations or random UK pubs
Q&A sessions about comedy, travel, or even visa mishaps
Audience-submitted challenge videos (“Roast this thing I bought at Poundland” was a recent hit)
If you log into TikTok on a dull Tuesday, odds are you’ll scroll right into Russell reacting to the quirks of British day-to-day life—moaning about self-checkout, marveling at Greggs, or chatting up a taxi driver. Feels like catching up with a mate, honestly.
Cultivating a Loyal Comedy Fanbase
Russell’s not just collecting followers. The people who watch his stuff turn up at gigs or bring new friends. A few things stand out about his fanbase:
They’re chatty—comment threads under his clips feel like a running conversation
Many come to multiple shows, comparing notes on which improv bit was wildest
There’s a growing group who refer to themselves as “Russell regulars” and swap gig stories online
Fans genuinely get the feeling that they’re in on the joke, and his openness about bad gigs, travel disasters, or weird backstage moments means the following just keeps growing. There’s no hype machine—just regular people who find him funny, relatable, and always a bit unpredictable.
Supporting and Working with the Stars: Russell Hicks Comedian’s Collaborations
Russell Hicks stands out not only for his improvisational genius but for his knack for sharing stages with some heavyweight talents. Over the years, he’s landed spots supporting huge names—think back-to-back tours, random festival line-ups and late-night green room chaos.
Opening for Major Comedians on Tour
Russell’s reputation as a dependable opener is well earned. It’s not every day you see comics trusted to get a crowd going for the likes of:
Simon Brodkin
Jason Manford
Paul Chowdhry
Al Murray
Dane Baptiste
His stage presence and quick-wit help set the tone, whether it’s a small city theatre or the buzz of a packed Hammersmith Apollo.
Collaborations at Comedy Festivals
There’s an odd siblinghood on the festival circuit, and Russell’s a familiar face at plenty of big events. His schedule includes:
Festival | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
Edinburgh Fringe | Most years since 2015 | Solo & Ensemble |
Prague Fringe Festival | 2024 (Winner) | Headliner |
Leicester Comedy Festival | Regular performer | Panel shows, Group gigs |
On these stages, he’s swapped riffs with other pros and often riffed side-by-side with rising acts, improvising entire sets from audience cues.
Shared Bills with Emerging and Established Talent
It’s become pretty standard to see Russell on flyers alongside a wild mix of comics. The line-ups look a bit like this:
Daniel Petrie – recent award-winner and regular collaborator
Mara Mainka, Omodara Olatunji – up-and-coming names he shares the bill with
Unsung club regulars and drop-in headline acts, sometimes announced last-minute
The unpredictability of British comedy nights means Russell can be riffing with a festival headliner one night, then bouncing off a brand new open-mic act the next. It keeps things lively for the audience—and him.
If you’ve caught a Russell Hicks gig over the last couple of years, odds are you’ve seen him thrown in with a packed, eclectic roster. He brings the same high energy whether he’s the star or making sure the crowd are ready for whoever’s up next.
Future Prospects: What’s Next for Russell Hicks Comedian in 2025?
Russell Hicks isn’t taking a break anytime soon. His calendar for 2025 is crammed and from what I can tell, he thrives under that kind of pressure. He’s got the sort of momentum that usually signals something big is brewing.
Upcoming UK Tour Dates and Festival Shows
Fans can expect a string of live appearances right into the summer and autumn. Russell is picking up steam thanks to his recent festival wins and crowd-pleasing work-in-progress nights. Here's a little summary of the key gigs on his radar:
Date | Event / Venue | Location |
|---|---|---|
10 March 2025 | Amersham Arms Happy Mondays | New Cross, LDN |
31 October 2025 | Commoners' Portland Arms | Cambridge |
Tuesdays | Regular Camden Eye Club Shows | Camden, LDN |
You might see him at Camden Eye too; it’s a hotspot where emerging and established comedians, including Russell, regularly perform.
Evolving Material and New Projects
Russell’s act has always felt like a work in progress — in a good way. He pushes himself to experiment, rarely repeating the same show. For 2025, expect:
New hour-long sets developed entirely from audience suggestion and riffing on the night
Collaborations with upcoming comics at club nights and festivals
An unexpected project or two in the pipeline — think podcasts, maybe another comedy album
Watching Russell test fresh material live is a unique experience. You feel like you’re part of the creative process, not just an observer.
Anticipated Television and Media Appearances
Russell’s star on telly doesn’t look like it’s fading either. If anything, his diary will probably fill up with more appearances and projects on major British channels, possibly even an international streaming platform.
Channel 4 and ITV panel shows are on the cards
Guest spots on comedic talk shows and podcasts
There’s been a rumour about a documentary series focusing on improvised stand-up — something that’s right up Russell’s street
He keeps finding new ways to keep his followers engaged and coming back, whether that’s through his live gigs, experimental projects, or even last-minute festival slots. If you haven’t caught his act yet, 2025 might finally be the year — you never know what you’ll get, but boredom isn’t an option.
Conclusion
So, that's Russell Hicks for you. He's not just another comic on the circuit – he's got this knack for making every gig feel like a one-off, which is probably why people keep coming back for more. Whether he's riffing off the crowd or spinning a story out of nowhere, you never quite know what you're going to get, and that's half the fun. With all the TV spots, big club gigs, and a growing army of fans online, it's clear he's not slowing down any time soon. If you haven't caught him live yet, maybe it's time you did. Who knows, you might end up going two nights in a row. Either way, Russell Hicks is definitely one to watch in British comedy right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Russell Hicks?
Russell Hicks is an American comedian who moved to the UK and has become well known for his sharp wit, quick thinking, and live shows full of improvisation. He also acts, does voice work, and appears on TV.
What makes Russell Hicks's comedy style unique?
Russell Hicks is famous for making up jokes on the spot. No two shows are the same because he interacts with the audience and uses their reactions to guide his performance. He mixes American and British humour in his acts.
Where has Russell Hicks performed?
Russell has headlined top comedy clubs in the UK like The Stand, Glee Club, Up the Creek, and Komedia. He’s also performed at big venues like Hammersmith Apollo and The Comedy Store, and has appeared at festivals in the UK and abroad.
Has Russell Hicks been on TV?
Yes, Russell has appeared on Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast, ITV’s Stand Up Sketch Show (which he also helped write and acted in), and Prime Video’s Lovestruck High. He’s also done voiceovers for brands like Sky Comedy and Booking.com.
What awards has Russell Hicks won?
Russell won the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year award in 2023 and Channel 4's Captive Audience. He has also been nominated for the Leicester Comedy Show and Bridport Creative Writing Short Story award.
How can I follow Russell Hicks or see him live?
You can follow Russell Hicks on TikTok, where he has over 275,000 followers. He often updates fans about his upcoming shows and tours on social media. You can also see him live at comedy clubs and festivals across the UK.