Madeleine Brettingham is quickly becoming a name to watch in the British comedy and theatre scene. From her witty stand-up routines and sharp TV writing to her bold theatrical debut, she has carved out a reputation as a creative force with a distinct voice. Her career spans across television, radio, stage, and live performance, making her a rare multi-talent who seamlessly bridges different formats of storytelling.
Early Career and Writing Foundations
Madeleine Brettingham began her career as a writer for some of Britain’s most popular and long-running panel and sketch shows. Her early credits include writing for Have I Got News For You, That Mitchell & Webb Look, Harry Hill’s TV Burp, and Horrible Histories. These early opportunities gave her the perfect foundation to develop her comedic timing, sharp observational style, and an ability to craft humour that works across both satire and character-driven comedy.
Her radio work, particularly on BBC Radio 4, has been equally impressive. Contributing to shows such as The News Quiz and That Mitchell & Webb Sound, she demonstrated her adaptability to the unique demands of writing for audio, where clarity and rhythm are just as important as the joke itself.
A Distinctive Comedic Style
Brettingham’s writing is often described as darkly comic, surreal, and thought-provoking. She balances sharp political and cultural commentary with humour rooted in everyday absurdities. This versatility allows her to perform stand-up that is both clever and accessible, appealing to wide audiences while never diluting her unique perspective.
Her ability to work across formats—whether as a writer in a writers’ room, a solo stand-up performer, or a playwright—has made her an unusually flexible creative presence in the British entertainment landscape.
Recognition and Awards
In 2025, Madeleine Brettingham’s career took a significant leap forward with two major comedy competition victories:
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So You Think You’re Funny? 2025 — Winner
This competition has launched the careers of some of Britain’s biggest comedy stars, and Brettingham’s win confirmed her place among the next generation of stand-up voices. -
Bath New Act Competition 2025 — Winner
Adding another high-profile win in the same year further established her reputation, marking her as one of the most exciting performers to watch on the live circuit.
Winning both competitions in such quick succession is a rare achievement, and it has brought her national attention from industry figures and comedy fans alike.
Theatre Debut: Dear Martin
Brettingham’s debut play, Dear Martin, premiered at London’s Arcola Theatre in 2025. The play was met with enthusiastic reviews for its mix of surreal comedy, unsettling themes, and emotionally resonant storytelling. Critics described it as bold, funny, and intellectually stimulating—qualities that mark her as more than just a stand-up comic, but also as a playwright willing to experiment with form and subject matter.
This step into theatre represents her expansion into new creative territories. While many comedians dabble in live stage shows, few manage to craft a play that resonates with audiences in both comic and dramatic registers.
Stand-Up Performance and Live Work
Beyond her scripted work, Madeleine Brettingham’s stand-up is rapidly gaining recognition. She brings a mixture of observational humour, biting satire, and inventive storytelling to the stage. Audiences and judges alike have praised her ability to shift from playful wit to darker humour with ease, creating a dynamic performance style that keeps her sets unpredictable and engaging.
Her live work also benefits from her experience in television writing: the sharp editing instincts and ability to land a punchline shine through in her stand-up delivery.
Contributions to British Comedy Television
Her contributions to some of the UK’s most enduring comedy programmes are a testament to her skill as a writer. Shows like Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Would I Lie To You?, and Have I Got News For You are staples of British television, known for their sharp satire and quick wit. Brettingham’s involvement reflects the trust producers place in her ability to craft timely, relevant humour that resonates with a wide audience.
These shows require writers who can respond quickly to current events, turning headlines into jokes that strike the right balance between humour and critique. Brettingham’s growing profile in this area signals her as one of the writers keeping Britain’s comedy output both sharp and fresh.
Writing Beyond Comedy
While her primary work is in comedy, Brettingham also writes essays and cultural commentary. Her contributions to The Times Literary Supplement demonstrate her range, showing she can transition from writing gags for TV to engaging with literature, philosophy, and the broader cultural conversation.
Her Substack, Luxury Filth, gives her a direct platform to connect with readers, sharing humour, insights, and reflections outside traditional broadcast media. This independent writing underscores her versatility and creative curiosity.
A Voice for the Future of UK Comedy
Madeleine Brettingham’s career is still in its early stages, yet she has already built an impressive portfolio. Her trajectory suggests she is not only a comedian to watch but also a writer who will shape the future of British comedy and theatre.
With successes in competitions, acclaimed contributions to major television and radio programmes, and a theatrical debut under her belt, she stands as an example of how a new generation of talent is reshaping the comedy landscape.
Conclusion
Madeleine Brettingham embodies the best of British comedic tradition—sharp, fearless, and versatile—while also pushing into new creative territories. Her rise has been marked by significant wins, critically acclaimed theatre work, and a growing reputation as both a writer and performer.
As she continues to expand her presence across comedy, theatre, and cultural writing, it is clear she will remain an important voice in the UK’s creative scene for years to come.
