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Comedian, writer & speaker on race

Darren Harriott

Explore the nuances of race and identity through humor and personal stories with Darren Harriott, speaker, comedian, and writer.

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Darren Harriott, Comedian | Edinburgh Award Nominee
Darren Harriott

Darren Harriott

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Birmingham, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Darren Harriott's biography

At a glance

  • Witty and incisive stand-up comedian
  • Writer for TV series like This Country
  • Explores race and identity in comedy
Darren Harriott is a British stand-up comedian and the first Black British performer to be nominated for the main Edinburgh Comedy Award. He hails from Birmingham and currently resides in London. Before pursuing comedy, he worked as a security guard for over five years. His debut show at the Edinburgh Festival, titled "Defiant," was successful enough to transfer to The Melbourne Festival and The Soho Theatre. In 2018, he toured the UK with "Visceral," followed by "Good Heart Yute" in 2019 and 2020. Darren has received two nominations for the Edinburgh Comedy Award. His television appearances include "Dancing on Ice," co-hosting "Love Island: Aftersun," and "Britain’s Best Takeaway" with Sara Cox. He has also featured in "British as Folk," hosted "Live at the Apollo," and appeared on "Dog Ate My Homework." He has been a team captain on four series of "Guessable" and is a regular on "Don’t Hate the Playaz." In 2023, Darren's Edinburgh Fringe show "Roadman" received positive reviews, earning four stars from the Mail on Sunday, The Skinny, and EdFest Magazine. It was also named a "Pick of the Fringe" by The Guardian and The Evening Standard. He frequently co-hosts the comedy night "You Dress Funny" with Rachel Fairburn, where comedians perform in unusual costumes. Darren's television credits extend to shows like "The Wheel," "Outsiders" on Dave, "The Last Leg," and "Backstage with Katherine Ryan." He has participated in various specials and competitions, including "All Star Games for Comic Relief," "Richard Osman’s House of Games," and "Celebrity Karaoke Club." His extensive TV work also includes appearances on "8 Out of 10 Cats," "The Apprentice: You’re Fired," and "Mock the Week." On radio, Darren has produced two series for BBC Radio 4: "Black Label," which focused on his teenage years in gangs, and "Red Label," released in the summer of 2023. He has hosted "Newsjack Unplugged" and participated in the Radio 4 Summer Festival. His radio appearances include "The News Quiz," "The Now Show," and "Fighting Talk." He has also been featured on several podcasts, such as "Shame is Delicious" and "The Adam Buxton Podcast." Darren is passionate about fitness and spends considerable time in the gym. He has a keen interest in fashion and is a fan of Kanye West, which he highlighted as his specialist subject on "Celebrity Mastermind." Additionally, he possesses extensive knowledge of boxing, mixed martial arts, and the World's Strongest Man competitions. To book, contact PepTalk today.

Darren's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Darren

Book Darren Harriott for your next event to guarantee laughter and energy. His unique blend of comedy, engaging storytelling, and impressive credentials will captivate your audience, making it an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your event!

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Trusted by PepTalk

Testimonials

Funny emotional hour of excellent storytelling ★★★★★

The List

Perfectly, very professional. Great to work with and hope we get the chance to work together again.

Dancing Squirrel

Passionate, articulate, witty and bursting with streetwise confidence ★★★★

The Evening Standard

Featured Projects

Darren Harriott - Guessable? book cover
Darren Harriott - BBC Radio WM book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Darren Harriott for my next event?
Email darren.harriott@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Darren's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Darren Harriott's stage presence like?
Darren Harriott performs stand-up comedy drawn from personal experience, with shows structured around a central theme — such as Defiant, Visceral, Good Heart Yute, and Roadman — each touring nationally and, in the case of Defiant, internationally. His material covers race, identity, and his background growing up in Birmingham, including time spent in gangs, which he has also developed into the BBC Radio 4 series Black Label and Red Label.
What topics does Darren Harriott specialise in?
Darren Harriott performs stand-up comedy and live hosting, with credits including Edinburgh Fringe runs ("Defiant," "Visceral," "Good Heart Yute," "Roadman") and comedy night co-hosting, suiting corporate and live entertainment events. He is the first Black British performer to be nominated for the main Edinburgh Comedy Award, with two nominations to his name.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.