Acclaimed Comedian, Actor, and Writer, Star of Outnumbered & Mock the Week & Long-Running Panellist on BBC Radio 4’s The Now Show.
Hugh Dennis’ Biography:
Hugh Dennis is one of the UK’s most versatile and beloved performers, recognised globally for his distinctive blend of deadpan wit, insightful acting, and razor-sharp improvisation. He is instantly recognisable as the hapless father Pete Brockman in the multi-award-winning BBC sitcom Outnumbered, and for his long-running tenure as a key panellist and comedic force on the popular BBC panel show Mock the Week. His comedy is characterised by its intelligent, observational nature, making him a household name across generations.
Dennis began his journey into comedy after graduating from St John’s College, Cambridge, with a degree in Geography. His comedic roots were established in the highly influential early 1990s sketch group The Mary Whitehouse Experience, alongside Steve Punt, David Baddiel, and Rob Newman. This early exposure to fast-paced, cutting-edge comedy and writing cemented his reputation as a formidable writer and performer, leading directly to his long-standing partnership with Steve Punt and their critically acclaimed radio work.
His professional achievements span television, radio, and film. Since 1994, he has starred in the satirical BBC Radio 4 institution, The Now Show, demonstrating his enduring relevance and ability to generate fresh, timely material. In addition to his six seasons on Outnumbered, his acting career includes roles in Fleabag and other high-profile series. A consistent live performer, he has completed multiple national tours with his characteristic, sharp, observational humour. Furthermore, in 2025, he is launching a new major BBC documentary series, A Brief History of Britain, leveraging his academic background and wit to explore UK cultural geography.
As a speaker, event host, and after-dinner entertainer, Hugh Dennis is exceptionally popular due to his high profile, professional delivery, and intellectual agility. He is highly adept at tailoring his wit to corporate audiences, ensuring the comedy is sophisticated, relevant, and clean. His experience managing the chaos of live panel shows and his intelligent background allow him to effortlessly guide awards ceremonies and deliver engaging, memorable entertainment that combines humour with genuine, insightful commentary.
Why Hire Hugh Dennis?
Hugh Dennis is the ideal host for corporate events, bringing unique celebrity recognition and unmatched comedic talent. Best known for Outnumbered and Mock the Week, he offers a witty, intelligent, and highly professional delivery style. With decades of experience in live, television, and radio satire, he excels at customising his observational humour to perfectly manage awards ceremonies or deliver sophisticated after-dinner entertainment. Book Hugh for guaranteed professionalism and memorable laughter.
Hugh Dennis’ Career Highlights:
Below showcases Hugh Dennis’ inspirational career highlights throughout the world of comedy:
- 2025 – Launched a new major BBC documentary series, A Brief History of Britain, leveraging his academic background in Geography.
- 2016 – Returned to star in the successful Outnumbered Christmas special, maintaining his iconic role.
- 2014 – Concluded the main six-season run of the multi-award-winning sitcom, Outnumbered.
- 2014 – Completed a major national tour, showcasing his unique observational stand-up material.
- 2007 – Began starring as Pete Brockman in the critically acclaimed BBC sitcom, Outnumbered.
- 1994 – Began starring in the long-running satirical comedy program on BBC Radio 4, The Now Show.
- 1990 – Achieved breakout success as a writer and performer in the seminal BBC sketch comedy series, The Mary Whitehouse Experience.
Videos
Hugh Dennis’ Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Hugh seemed to go down a storm, he was getting lots and lots of laughs when he did his 20 mins free-style at the beginning. He checked some content with us before-hand, which was sweet, as we don’t usually have that. He was respectful of the awards and the script, and kept to it very tightly! He was a joy to have on the table and they enjoyed his company.” – BCSC
“He was brilliant and a perfect choice for the awards. This event is always the more challenging of our two award shows as its senior management and these people go to this type of event a lot however Hugh really did his homework on the company and industry which really paid off. He was also incredibly easy to work with and very laid back.” – Network Rail
“Hugh was a great Awards host and his pitch was just right. He took time during the briefing to understand our business and was able to incorporate some really funny industry insights into his opening slot. He followed the brief, kept the evening running to time and was very sociable with the audience. Everyone loved him.” – Royal Mail
Speaking Topics
Hugh Dennis’ Official Keynote Topics:
- Event Hosting and Awards Ceremony Facilitation
- After-Dinner Entertainment & Observational Humour
- The Art of Improv and Quick Thinking
- Building a Career in Satire and Comedy Writing
- Life Lessons from the Set of Outnumbered
How Much Does Hugh Dennis Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Hugh Dennis?
The cost of hiring Hugh Dennis depends on your event format, location and duration. For an accurate quote tailored to your needs, contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.
