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Comedian, actor & improvisation expert

Russell Hicks

Bring guaranteed laughter to any event with Russell Hicks, award-winning comedian, improviser, and compère. Russell headlines the UK's top comedy clubs and hosts awards ceremonies, festivals, and private parties, as seen on the BBC, Channel 4, and ITV.

Trusted by The Stand, Glee Club, Up the Creek

Russell Hicks, Comedian | Comedian & Actor
Russell Hicks

Russell Hicks

London, 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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Book Russell

London, 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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Russell Hicks's biography

At a glance

  • American comedian headlining major UK comedy clubs
  • Winner of Channel 4's Captive Audience competition
  • Creator of viral Dear Diary Instagram series
Russell Hicks is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer who brings sharp improvisation skills and a cross-cultural perspective to stages across the UK. Now based in the UK after relocating from San Diego, Russell won Channel 4's Captive Audience with fully improvised stand-up and claimed the 2024 Prague Fringe Festival title. He is a two-time Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show nominee and headlines at The Stand, Glee Club, and Up the Creek while holding a residency at London's Top Secret Comedy Club. On screen, he starred as Coach Hughes in Prime Video's Lovestruck High and appeared in Edgar Wright's The Running Man. Russell connects with audiences through quick-thinking improvisation and observational humour that draws from his experience navigating life between America and Britain. His 'Dear Diary' Instagram series has generated millions of views and built a following of over 100,000 people. Whether headlining comedy clubs, hosting awards ceremonies, or performing after-dinner sets, he adapts his material to each room while maintaining the spontaneity that won him national television recognition. His stand-up special streams on ITVX, and he works across multiple formats, including comedy writing for ITV's Stand Up Sketch Show. Audiences leave Russell's shows energised by his ability to turn everyday cultural observations into unexpected punchlines. His improvisation skills mean no two performances are ever the same. Russell is currently touring 'This Time It's Personal' across the UK. Book him for comedy that feels fresh, immediate, and genuinely unpredictable.

Russell's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Russell

Russell Hicks delivers award-winning improvised comedy that transforms corporate events into dynamic, unique experiences. He draws on his Channel 4 success and cross-cultural insights to connect with diverse audiences through sharp observational humour. Book Russell to energise your team with spontaneous, tailored entertainment that guarantees fresh material and genuine engagement at every performance.

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Trusted by The Stand, Glee Club, Up the Creek

Testimonials

Russell recently presented an outstanding comedy set at our strategic global offsite held for the senior leadership team. His instinctive skill to read the room and the personalities in it had everyone crying with laughter and not wanting the event to end!

Harriet Anderson Bradley

Manager, Business Development and Marketing, Vanderbilt University

Regularly provides stellar headline sets and compering. For 6 years we've trusted him to perform all over Europe and audience members have been left howling and demanding a rebooking! As well as comedy club events, Russell works with us on corporate shows. Whether virtual or in-person, he always impresses our clients with his winning improvisations and personalised stylings. Simply hilarious... 5 stars!

Clara Heimerdinger

Director, Nice N' Spiky Ltd

Just outstanding. Had everyone doubled up with laughter. Would recommend for any event. Knew exactly how to pitch to the audience. Will be booking again.

Kirsty Walder

Canterbury Rugby Club

Featured Projects

Russell Hicks - This Time It's Personal book cover
Russell Hicks - The Running Man book cover
Russell Hicks - Maintenance Required book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Russell Hicks for my next event?
Email russell.hicks@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 Russell'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 Russell Hicks's stage presence like?
Russell Hicks performs fully improvised stand-up, structuring each set around in-the-moment audience interaction and observational material drawn from his cross-cultural experience of living between America and Britain, meaning no two performances follow the same format. His improvisation credentials are competition-verified, having won Channel 4's Captive Audience with a fully improvised set, which provides a reliable indicator of his ability to hold a room without scripted material.
What topics does Russell Hicks specialise in?
Russell Hicks performs stand-up, hosting, awards ceremonies, and after-dinner sets, drawing on improvised comedy and cross-cultural observational humour suited to comedy club audiences and corporate or private events. He won Channel 4's Captive Audience with fully improvised stand-up and holds a stand-up special on ITVX, with screen credits including Prime Video's Lovestruck High and Edgar Wright's The Running Man.
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.