Major Greater Manchester names on lineup as BBC Comedy Festival heads north for 2026

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The BBC’s popular comedy festival heading up north next month, and there’s some major local names on the lineup.

Previously held in other major cities like Belfast, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Newcastle but this year pitching up in Liverpool, the BBC Comedy Festival is opportunity for those working in the TV industry to get together, discuss, and celebrate comedy.

Bolton‘s finest Diane Morgan, alongside other northern names like John Bishop, Lee Mack, Sir Michael Palin, and Sue Johnston are among a stellar lineup of comedy talent taking part in next month’s festival, as well as other big names like Ruth Jones, James Corden, Gbemisola Ikumelo, and the creators and producers of hit BBC show Amandaland.

Talent on the lineup will take part in a selection of talks, panels, screenings, and live comedy shows across the two days – with many events also being open to the public to attend.

Sir Michael Palin and Lee Mack are two major names appearing at BBC Comedy Festival 2026 / Credit: Wikimedia Commons (Ralph PH | Amanda Benson)

Last year’s BBC Comedy Festival proved to be a big success, with 16 panels and masterclasses, and more than 70 comedy names taking to the stage.

The BBC says the 2026 festival in Liverpool – which is set to take place on 13 and 14 May – ‘marks the start’ of expanded script‑development opportunities across the North West, with more details to come.

Alongside some of the more household names on the lineup, other comedians set to appear this year include Ash Atalla, Jessica Knappett, Philippa Dunne, Michael Odewale, Emma Garrett, David Mumemi, and Simon Mayhew Archer, among many others.

Speaking ahead of the festival next month, Jon Petrie, who is the Director of Comedy at the BBC, said: “Liverpool has funny bones and a rich culture of producing top tier comedy creatives, so we’re delighted to be bringing the BBC Comedy Festival 2026 to the city.

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“Comedy occupies a unique place in the television industry and British culture.

“It’s important that we provide a forum that brings together some of the best comedy minds to celebrate and discuss the success of the sector now and in the future.”

Featured Image – BBC / Al Campbell

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