Some of the biggest names in Black British comedy come together at Hackney Empire for Pioneers of Comedy 2026, a special Black History Month celebration honouring the performers who helped open doors for a new generation of comedians.
The event brings together established stars and emerging talent for an evening celebrating the history, influence and continuing success of Black comedy in Britain.
Among the headline names are Richard Blackwood, Slim and Robbie Gee, performers whose careers span stand-up, television, radio, theatre and film.
The programme is designed not simply as a comedy show but as a celebration of the artists who helped build the Black British comedy circuit and created opportunities for comedians who followed them.
For many years, Black comedians developed audiences through independent comedy nights, community venues and live circuits at a time when opportunities within mainstream television and entertainment were considerably more limited.
Those foundations helped create the environment in which a new generation of performers could achieve national success.
Pioneers of Comedy meets Next Gen recognises that history while also introducing younger comedians who are already making an impact across television, social media and the live comedy scene.
The result is an evening connecting different generations of Black British comedy, from performers who helped establish the scene to those now taking it in new directions.
Taking place during Black History Month 2026, the event celebrates not only individual careers but the wider contribution Black comedians have made to British popular culture.
Comedy has provided an important platform for conversations around race, family, relationships, identity and everyday Black British life, often addressing difficult subjects through humour and shared experience.
Pioneers of Comedy 2026 – Black History Month Special takes place at Hackney Empire on Saturday 24th October 2026.
Doors open at 6:30pm, with the show beginning at 7:30pm.
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