Russell Howard discusses comedy in a changing world
Comedian Russell Howard has highlighted the absurdity of the former Prince Andrew saga, noting that part of his punishment could involve being banned from royal grouse hunts, reports BritPanorama.
During a recent interview in a hotel bar near the London Palladium, where he is set to perform three nights as part of his 2026 stand-up tour Don’t Blame the Algorithm, Howard reflected on how his comedy has resurfaced amid renewed interest in the disgraced royal. A clip from his 2019 satirical show, The Russell Howard Hour, detailing Andrew’s controversial interview with Emily Maitlis about his links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has gone viral again.
Howard emphasized the importance of making complex issues relatable, especially for younger audiences. His comedic portrayal of the royal family serves to humanize the figures involved while addressing serious topics. The approach has engaged his teenage children, who are now examining the headlines and recognizing the gravity of the subject matter.
His satirical performance offers not just entertainment but also an avenue for discussions on difficult themes. As Howard stated, “topical comedy often does the same thing a good teacher can do,” capturing the attention of young audiences and encouraging them to process challenging realities in a digestible manner.
Throughout his career, Howard has evolved from a light-hearted performer to one willing to tackle pressing societal issues. His work draws not only on personal experiences but also broader cultural conversations, reflecting the current state of the world while maintaining a comedic outlook.
The comedian, who views comedy as a powerful tool for connection, also touched on the impact of technology. In his new show, Howard aims to explore how phones and digital distractions hinder genuine human interaction. He advocates for moments of real-life engagement and creativity, urging audiences to disconnect and engage with the world around them.
As Howard embarks on his Don’t Tell the Algorithm tour starting on 22 January, he continues to navigate the delicate balance between humour and seriousness. His work illustrates the potential of comedy to foster understanding and connector among audiences, regardless of age.
