Shappi Khorsandi

British Comedian, Creator of ‘Asylum Speaker’ Show at Edinburgh Fringe & Author of ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Acting English’

Shappi Khorsandi’s Biography:

Shappi Khorsandi is best known for her dynamic presence in British comedy, blending sharp humour with heartfelt honesty. A regular on major UK comedy shows including Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, Mock the Week, and 8 Out of 10 Cats, she has built a reputation as one of the country’s most compelling comedic voices. Her work frequently explores human rights, racism, diversity, and mental wellbeing—using humour not just to entertain, but to challenge perspectives and spotlight social issues. Her candid discussions around ADHD, mental health, and identity have made her a sought-after speaker and author, resonating with audiences seeking authenticity and insight.

Shappi’s early life profoundly shaped her storytelling. Born in Iran, she fled the country as a child refugee with her family, an experience that later inspired her breakout Edinburgh Fringe show ‘Asylum Speaker’—a sell-out performance that established her as a unique comedic voice unafraid to address complex histories. Before rising to fame, Shappi honed her craft on the UK comedy circuit, quickly earning a reputation for her disarming stage presence, intelligence, and relatable humour. Her early broadcasting success included Shappi Talk on BBC Radio 4, which further cemented her place as a versatile and thoughtful performer.

Her achievements expanded far beyond stand-up. In 2007, she won Best Breakthrough Act at the Chortle Awards, followed by the prestigious James Joyce Award in 2013 for outstanding contribution to the arts. Shappi is also a celebrated author; her memoir ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Acting English’ became a bestseller, offering a humorous yet powerful reflection on her upbringing. She later wrote the acclaimed novels ‘Nina is Not OK’ and ‘Kissing Emma’, tackling sensitive themes with empathy and comedic clarity. Her latest book, ‘Scatter Brain: How I Finally Got Off the ADHD Rollercoaster and Became the Owner of a Very Tidy Sock Drawer‘, explores neurodiversity with honesty and humour.

Beyond the stage and page, Shappi continues to champion human rights, women’s equality, and mental-health awareness. Whether performing at the Edinburgh Fringe—where she has been a fixture for over two decades—or appearing on reality television such as I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here. She brings authenticity, courage, and laughter to every platform. Her career reflects a profound commitment to storytelling that bridges cultures, experiences, and emotions.

Why Hire Shappi Khorsandi?

Shappi is hired as a speaker for her rare ability to blend comedy with meaningful insight, as seen through her TEDx talk, ‘The Outsider’s Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice‘. She speaks openly about diversity, neurodiversity, sexism, mental wellbeing, and the immigrant experience—using humour to make challenging subjects accessible and engaging. Audiences value her authenticity, lived experience, and energising style, which inspires reflection while keeping listeners thoroughly entertained.

Shappi Khorsandi’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Shappi Khorsandi’s inspirational career highlights throughout comedy and television:

• 2025 – Touring ‘Scatter Brain’ comedy show
• 2023 – Releases ‘Scatter Brain: How I Finally Got Off the ADHD Rollercoaster and Became the Owner of a Very Tidy Sock Drawer’
• 2021 – Publishes ‘Kissing Emma’
• 2016 – Publishes ‘Nina is Not OK’
• 2013 – Receives the James Joyce Award from Dublin University
• 2012 – Live at The Apollo
• 2010 – Launches BBC Radio 4 series Shappi Talk
• 2009 – Publishes bestselling memoir ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Acting English’
• 2007 – Wins Best Breakthrough Act at the Chortle Awards
• 2006 – Asylum Speaker debuts at the Edinburgh Fringe; sells out and receives critical acclaim