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Episode 27 of This Week in Comedy brings a loose, sharp and properly funny visit from Bev Killick, a road-tested Australian comedy force. Bold, bawdy and high-energy, Bev looks back on clubs, festivals and national tours, including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Puppetry of the Penis and Busting Out. She also shares how stand-up found her after a trip to the Espy, how Joan Rivers shaped her approach to owning the stage, and how a circle of women helped her restart her life and step into comedy with purpose.
The episode gives flowers to Rove McManus, newly appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for service to broadcast media, entertainment and community. The crew celebrates the honour while linking Rove back to his early South Melbourne comedy roots at the legendary Star and Garter.
Charlie Pickering also lands in the news after calling Grace Tame “problematic” around her ABC podcast Autistic AF with Grace Tame. The room flips the lens: rather than Grace being the issue, Charlie becomes the problematic one, raising questions about who gets labelled difficult when outspoken women speak plainly.
There is also a pointed discussion about Lisa Jane Spencer and the backlash to her “Auntie Lisa” material, with Bev and the hosts arguing the issue is not simply offence, but lazy, damaging work that lacks craft, punchlines and responsibility.
The episode also highlights A Fair Cut’s first town hall meeting, being held on Saturday, 13 June, at The Ballroom, Donkey Wheel House, near Southern Cross. Supported by MEAA, the meeting is designed to gather performer input ahead of Fair Cut’s talks with Melbourne Fringe, especially around fairer venue deals and what a better split should look like for artists.
And, of course, there is beer. After a shout-out to Two Bays for clarifying their gluten-free brewing ingredients, the crew cracks into Real Ale Golden from Reservoir. Served at cellar temperature, the beer earns praise for its warm fermentation, unfiltered body, canned conditioning, 100 percent Aussie ingredients and rounded flavour.
Along the way, the episode covers Robert Irwin hosting the Logies, Liz Hicklin becoming a “sit-down stand-up” in her 90s, Fair Cut’s town hall on performer pay, Geelong Comedy Festival’s artist-friendly ticket split, Jane Kennedy’s influence, John Blackman’s legacy and the strange life of Thomas Midgley Jr. It is chaotic, reflective and proudly funny. Mostly, though, it is a showcase for Bev’s storytelling, resilience, generosity and ability to turn even messy life detours into comedy gold, with very real bite too throughout.
Links:A Fair Cut's first town hall meeting: Click here
Real ale Golden by Sobremesa Fermentary & Blendery: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In Episode 26 of This Week in Comedy, hosts Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes welcome veteran Australian comedian Trevor Marmalade for a loose, warm and very funny conversation about comedy, television, football, regional Australia and the strange hazards of live entertainment. Trevor begins by swapping local South Melbourne and Port Melbourne stories, then looks back to the pre-internet joke economy, when good gag tellers mattered and punchlines travelled from person to person rather than through screens.
The news segment lets the trio riff on Andy Lee’s Do Not Watch This Show, Will Gibb’s move from online comedy into acting, Sam Pang’s AFL satire, Tim Minchin’s support for Edinburgh Fringe performers, and shifts at BBC Comedy. Trevor adds first-hand stories about Pang’s early producing days and the difference between writing one-liners and being funny in conversation.
A major highlight is Trevor’s deep dive into Hey Hey It’s Saturday. He explains how Russell Gilbert helped bring him in as a creative consultant, and how a late stand-up spot eventually led to live crosses. His best story involves Daryl Somers sending him into Geelong’s losing grand final function, where Trevor twisted Daryl’s supportive message into a brutal fake insult and won over the studio. That led to more crosses, including the infamous Tumut “Festival of the Falling Leaf” segment, where he turned an empty park into a comic set-piece and was nearly chased out of town.
The episode also pauses for a beer break, celebrating CB Co’s 500ml 20th anniversary pale ale, a welcome answer to Morry and Lily’s complaints about shrinking 330ml cans. Trevor declines because he is not a beer drinker, but the hosts praise the larger format as efficient, generous and potentially sponsor-worthy.
Later, the conversation moves through comedy history, Anh Do, Phil Hartman, Mel Blanc, Bob Hope, Ian Cognito’s death on stage, Sam Newman, plastic surgery, and the Pamela Anderson mural on Newman’s old garage. Throughout, Trevor comes across as relaxed, sharp and generous with showbiz memories, while Morry and Lily keep the pace conversational, cheeky and unmistakably Australian.
Links:CBCo Brewing Pale Ale: Click here
Visit Tumut and tell the locals Trevor is sorry: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Episode 25 of This Week in Comedy lands with a studio glow-up, a stout in hand, and a guest who knows how to make chaos look classy. Hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan are joined by comedic actor, writer and author Stephen Hall, best known for his many characters across Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell and for being personally chosen by John Cleese to play Basil Fawlty in the Australian stage adaptation of Fawlty Towers.
The episode moves through comedy news, festival updates, late-night TV farewells, AI poster debates, trivia, history and the kind of sideways banter that can only happen when the room is properly caffeinated, carbonated or both. Stephen brings sharp reflections on performance, parody, AI as a creative tool, and the strange grey zones facing artists, comedians and musicians today.
Then comes the beer: Pirate Life Stout, a Port Adelaide brew sampled in studio after Morry’s visit to Pirate Life in South Melbourne. With its dark, Vegemite-meets-soy-sauce notes, bigger bubbles and 5.6% kick, the stout gets a warm reception from the table. It also comes recommended as a match for Pirate Life’s roast, and the verdict is clear: this is exactly the kind of beer that would sit beautifully beside a hearty roast, red meat, or possibly even a white rabbit, depending on how far the conversation has drifted.
The episode also takes in Mike Myers, Matt Stone, Andy Lee, Graham Kennedy, Bill Hunter, Johnny Carson and Jay Leno, before Lily tests the room with the horrifying fact that a real parasite can eat a fish’s tongue and then become the tongue. From there, the gang heads into “funny in the moment” stories involving physios, vets, cats, dogs, private health cards and the eternal dream of becoming a taxidermied stubby holder.
And if you'd like to see Stephen perform be sure to see him in For the Term of His Natural Lies on the 24 June 2026, part of the Glen Eira Storytelling Festival.
Links:Pirate Life Stout: Click here
Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School: Click here
Radio Lab's 'Ripp'n the Rainbow a New One' podcast episode: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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In episode 24 of This Week in Comedy, hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan are joined in the studio by Melbourne comedy and radio legend Richard Stubbs for a fast-moving chat through comedy news, festival politics, television history, beer tasting and wonderfully strange historical detours. This episode that beer is Sailor's Grave Brewing Czech Pilsner.
The episode opens with Richard reflecting on his decades in Australian entertainment, from starting stand-up at The Last Laugh in 1983 to filling in for Steve Vizard on Tonight Live and hosting Hey Hey It’s Saturday. His stories give the episode a warm industry-insider feel, balancing sharp comedy observations with genuine affection for Australian broadcasting and live performance.
The team then turns to the latest comedy news, including the Sydney Comedy Festival awards, where Reuben Kaye and Frankie McNair jointly won Best of the Fest. This sparks a broader conversation about how comedy festivals have changed, especially with overlapping festival calendars and the increasing cost and pressure of doing full runs.
A major focus is Adelaide Fringe, following the appointment of Canadian arts leader Marc Carnes as its new CEO. The discussion expands into festival leadership more broadly, including the search for the new CEO of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with the role now open and prompting debate about whether a comedian, administrator, or comedy-loving arts professional would be best suited to lead such a major institution.
Lily also interviews Lukas Meintjes, founder of A Fair Cut, a new initiative pushing for fairer venue deals for artists. Lukas explains how confusing and expensive venue contracts can make it almost impossible for performers to break even, even when they sell well. He outlines A Fair Cut’s push for clearer contracts, no double-dipping on fees, and a suggested 30% cap on venue revenue share, with venues beginning to sign up for accreditation.
The episode also covers Sam Pang stepping away from hosting the Logies, Stephen Colbert’s final week on The Late Show, and comedy history moments including Seinfeld, Andy Kaufman and Kath & Kim. Along the way, Richard reveals his love of history, gaming and reading every label in sight, while the hosts keep things loose with beer tasting, crematorium facts and Morry’s Bunnings dog story.
Oh, and if you enjoyed Richard Stubbs on this episode be sure to subscribe to his podcast, The Mess Around.
Links:A Fair Cut: Click here
Sailor's Grave Brewing Czech Pilsner: Click here
Richard Stubb's podcast, The Mess Around: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In Episode 23 of This Week in Comedy, hosts Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes are joined in the studio by special guest Rusty Berther from the iconic Australian comedy duo Scared Weird Little Guys. Rusty also chats about his latest project, The Grats, a comedy supergroup featuring Tom Gleeson, Andrew Hansen from The Chaser, Gatesy from Tripod, Rusty himself, and Sammy J.
The episode kicks off with comedy news, including Arj Barker opening for Flight of the Conchords during their recent comeback performances. The hosts chat about Barker’s famous bandana look from the TV series and how it accidentally became part of his public identity.
The trio also unpack the controversy surrounding The Roast of Kevin Hart, debating whether roast comedy actually suits Australian audiences. They discuss edgy material from Shane Gillis, criticism from Michael Che, and why Australians tend to roast each other naturally as part of everyday friendship culture.
Another major topic is Weird Al Yankovic announcing a stage musical featuring hits like “Amish Paradise”, “White & Nerdy”, and “Smells Like Nirvana”. The conversation evolves into a broader discussion about comedy songs, musicals, and cult productions like Spamalot and The Book of Mormon.
Rusty shares nostalgic stories about performing at Expo 88 in a barbershop quartet, the origins of his comedy career, and how performing alongside international street artists shaped his creative life. The group also reflects on classic television, including Cheers, Frasier, and the legacy of Monty Python.
The episode also features the weekly beer review with the Skinny Dipper Hazy IPA by Garage Project, which sparks a surprisingly deep discussion about craft beer culture, tradie beer etiquette, and the proper currency for paying mates who help with odd jobs.
The episode rounds out with hilarious chats about country life, philosophy, bizarre farming stories, awkward police encounters, and comedy industry life. It’s another chaotic and funny deep dive into comedy, culture, music, beer, and Australian life.
Links:Skinny Dipper Hazy IPA by Garage Project: Click here
Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 22 of This Week in Comedy brings together hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan with special guest Greg Curcio for a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, creativity, media and the future of Australia’s comedy industry.
This episode get serious, with Greg sharing outcomes from the three day Business of Comedy Conference, where discussions centred on strengthening Australia’s comedy sector. Greg explains how his company, Future Ready Now, using AI tools to analyse the conferences sessions has produced a comprehensive “white paper” outlining strategies for improving the comedy ecosystem. Topics include fairer venue deals for performers, better access to funding, stronger industry organisation and the long-term vision of creating Melbourne as the world’s leading comedy destination.
The trio discuss the idea of a dedicated Melbourne comedy hub featuring performance spaces, archives, museums, bars, teaching rooms and creative collaboration areas. Inspired by historic venues like The Last Laugh, they explore how comedy can drive economic, cultural and social outcomes. Greg argues comedy is deeply undervalued despite its impact across entertainment, politics, education and workplaces.
Elsewhere, the hosts unpack major comedy and entertainment news stories, including Channel 10’s upcoming comedy telemovie Cop This, the controversy surrounding Bluey royalties flowing to the BBC instead of Australia, and comedian Alex Williamson being removed from his football club over offensive comments. Morry also highlights satirist Conrad Benjamin from Punter’s Politics, discussing how comedy and political satire influence public debate.
The episode is filled with lighter moments too, including a bizarre tasting session involving a thick purple “smoothie sour ale” beer, nostalgic reflections on sitcoms like Frasier, Cheers and Friends, and a conversation about international towns named Dull, Boring and Bland forming a tourism alliance.
As always, the episode finishes with Morry’s “Funny in the Moment” segment, where he recounts an awkward but successful attempt at making a local bread shop owner laugh.
Links:Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference DRAFT white paper for public consultation: Click here
Contribute via the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HMFWF5BOne Drop Brewing Co Come Over Pulp Smoothy Sour Ale : Click here
Future Ready Now: Click here
Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 21 of This Week in Comedy is packed with big names, bold opinions, and major industry news from the Melbourne comedy scene. This week, we’re joined in-studio by the legendary Wilbur Wilde, bringing stories from his iconic career, sharp insights into live performance, and plenty of laughs along the way.
We kick things off with a huge headline: Susan Provan has officially announced she’s stepping down as director of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival after an incredible 31-year run. As the festival celebrates its 40th year, we break down what this leadership change means for the future of comedy in Australia, who might step into the role, and why it’s such a pivotal moment for the industry.
From there, we dive into MICF reviews and on-the-ground perspectives with reviewer George Stamkoski, who attended 22 shows across the festival. His unique “What’s Funny?” approach gives insight into what actually connects with audiences, from raw, emotional storytelling to pure joy and absurdity. If you’re a comedian or fan, this is a fascinating look at what’s working right now in live comedy.
Wilbur Wilde also shares behind the scenes stories from decades in entertainment, including reflections on performing with the Ol' 55. And we also discuss his appearance at the Business of Comedy Conference, where he spoke on the session “Why the laughter economy matters”, exploring the value of comedy in Australia’s live performance ecosystem.
Plus, we chat about the rise of new streaming platforms and how the industry is evolving both locally and globally.
As always, there’s plenty of banter, a beer review featuring the Good Land Brewing Co. “Good Lager”, and some truly chaotic comedy moments, including a “funny in the moment” that could have gone horribly wrong.
Links:Good Land Brewing Co's Good Lager : Click here
Business of Comedy Conference session titled 'Why the laughter economy matters': Click here
Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 20 of This Week in Comedy lands at the tail end of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2026, and there is plenty to unpack. Broadcasting from a brand new studio, the team are joined by special guest Bradford Oakes, bringing his signature insights, stories and sharp comedic perspective to the conversation.
The episode opens with a reflection on the festival wrap up. While it is officially done and dusted, the reality for comedians is a bit different. From waiting on ticket sales to planning the next run, the grind never really stops. The crew chat about the highs, the exhaustion and what comes next after one of the biggest comedy events in Australia.
In the news segment, the team dive into a headline grabbing protest in Brisbane, where a flash mob used John Farnham’s song Two Strong Hearts as part of a demonstration against new laws restricting certain phrases linked to Israel's genocide in Gaza. The discussion explores the importance of satire for a healthy democracy, a subject that was raised at the Business of Comedy Conference a week earlier.
There is also a breakdown of the ongoing legal situation involving Rebel Wilson and her film The Deb, unpacking how controversy can collide with creative projects and impact releases.
The episode goes deep into the reality of performing during festival season. Multiple gigs in a single night, long travel for short sets and the challenge of staying sharp are all part of the job. It is an honest look at the hustle behind the laughs and what it takes to survive in the comedy world.
Add in the Bright Brewery’s Real Heroes Draught review, a bizarre story about pigeon guided missiles and a classic awkward public moment, and you have an episode packed with humour, insight and very Australian storytelling.
Links:Bright Brewery’s Real Heroes Draught: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 19 of This Week in Comedy sees hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan hit their stride with a jam-packed episode blending global satire, Aussie comedy highlights, and plenty of laughs along the way. Joining them in the studio is none other than Scott Dikkers, founding editor of The Onion, who shares insights into the craft of satire, its role in modern media, and why it remains essential for a healthy democracy, just ahead of his appearance at the Business of Comedy Conference.
The episode kicks off with a deep dive into one of Australia’s biggest comedy events, the Raw Comedy National Grand Final, held as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. With nearly a thousand entrants nationwide, the competition showcases the country’s best emerging stand-ups. This year, Sydney’s Joshua Khoury took out the top prize, earning a coveted opportunity to perform internationally. The competition was incredibly tight, with Melbourne comedians Jorgia Rice and Jake Zukerman named as runners-up, both earning well-deserved recognition for their standout performances.
Lily and Morry also reflect on the energy of the night, the diversity of acts (including musical comedy), and the significance of Raw Comedy as a launchpad for new talent. Alongside this, they spotlight other major comedy happenings, including the Deadly Funny National Grand Final and upcoming tours, all while weaving in their signature humour and industry insight.
Of course, it wouldn’t be This Week in Comedy without a beer review. This episode features a gluten-free brew from Two Bays Brewing Co., opening up a light-hearted discussion about taste, dietary quirks, and the ever-important role of beer in comedy culture—even if not everyone in the room is drinking.
Links:Scott Dikkers on Instagram: Click here
Two Bays Pale Ale Gluten Free: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 18 of This Week in Comedy sees hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan joined by special guest Andrew J. Nash, former technical advisor on Silicon Valley and upcoming speaker at the Business of Comedy Conference in Melbourne, April 16, 17 and 18, for a wide ranging and hilarious conversation that blends comedy, tech, and real world storytelling.
Recorded bright and early (before 9am, somehow), the episode dives straight into Andrew’s experience working behind the scenes on one of the most detail rich comedy series ever made. He shares how the show’s creators, led by Mike Judge, were committed to making the technology as accurate as possible, right down to hidden Easter eggs, real code, and in jokes that only industry insiders would catch. From freeze frame worthy screens to subtle nods to real startups and billionaires, the level of authenticity is next level.
Naturally, the conversation brings up the iconic characters that made Silicon Valley unforgettable, including Richard Hendricks, Erlich Bachman, Gilfoyle, Dinesh, Jared, Gavin Belson, Big Head, Jian Yang, and the Russ Hanneman, who it turns out way based on billionaire, Mark Cuban.
One of the standout discussions revolves around the infamous “middle out” compression scene, widely regarded as one of the most elaborate d*ck jokes in television history. Andrew reveals how real Stanford experts contributed to the concept, and how a fictional idea ended up influencing genuine conversations in the tech world. It’s a perfect example of how comedy can intersect with reality in unexpected ways.
Beyond Silicon Valley, the conversation expands into the broader relationship between satire, technology, and society. Andrew explores why satire is essential for both healthy democracies and evolving industries, drawing parallels between comedians and entrepreneurs as people who challenge norms and rethink systems.
The episode also features This Week in Comedy History, highlighting figures like Eddie Murphy and Jackie Chan, plus updates from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Chortle Award nominations, a chaotic breakfast beer review, and a bizarre historical fact involving a unit of measurement called a “butt.”
Links:Andrew J Nash on LinkedIn: Click here
Boat Rocker’s Neon Pop Watermelon & Lime Beer: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 17 of This Week in Comedy brings together Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes with special guest Canadian comedian Lars Callieou for a full-episode deep dive into comedy culture, festival life, and the chaos that comes with it. From the opening moments, Lars settles in as more than just a guest, sharing stories from his career across Canada and Australia while immediately matching the show’s fast, irreverent energy.
The episode moves through a mix of industry insights and absurd tangents, covering everything from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to the strange realities of being a working comedian. There’s discussion around visas, the grind of building a career, and the subtle differences between comedy scenes around the world. Along the way, the trio unpack classic “inside comedy” moments, including the universal joke about comedians wearing shorts on stage and what it really signals to other performers.
A highlight of the episode is the ongoing love letter to The Exford Hotel, a venue that holds a special place in both the Melbourne comedy scene and Lars’s personal journey. His story about discovering the venue, and how it mirrors his early days running comedy rooms in Canada, offers a rare mix of sincerity and humour that captures what makes live comedy spaces so important. It also ties into appearances from figures like Chris Franklin, whose presence looms large in the stories shared throughout the episode.
Naturally, no episode would be complete without a drink in hand, and this week’s choice is Foster's Lager. What starts as a simple tasting turns into a nostalgic and surprisingly thoughtful discussion about Australian identity, international perceptions, and the strange cultural journey of one of the country’s most recognisable beers.
The episode also leans into the bizarre, with stories ranging from a French performer who famously ate an entire airplane to offbeat “funny in the moment” encounters that highlight the unpredictable nature of comedy. Balancing industry talk with ridiculous anecdotes, Episode 17 captures the essence of what This Week in Comedy does best: blending insight, storytelling, and spontaneous humour into a conversation that feels both unfiltered and deeply connected to the comedy world.
Links:Hard Knock Knocks Comedy Course with Lars Callieou: Click here
Lars Callieou's Instagram: Click here
Foster's Larger: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 16 of This Week in Comedy lands right as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival celebrates its 40th year, and hosts Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes are right in the thick of it.
From the buzz of opening week to the chaos of late-night afterparties, Morry and Lily dive headfirst into festival season. They break down what’s hot this year, including the iconic Exford Hotel afterparty scene, rising stars like Bron Lewis hosting major gala events, and the continued rise of Aaron Chen, whose Netflix special drops mid-festival. It’s a snapshot of a comedy scene that’s bigger, faster, and more competitive than ever.
But it’s not all celebration. The hosts tackle a spicy industry topic: the influx of online content creators stepping onto live stages. Does a massive TikTok following translate to ticket sales? Is the festival becoming oversaturated? And can 'digital creator comedy' hold up under the unforgiving spotlight of stand-up? Morry and Lily unpack the growing tension between online fame and live performance, sharing insights from the circuit and their own experiences.
There’s also a nostalgic detour into comedy history, from The Office to early silent film icon Roscoe Arbuckle - a reminder that comedy has always evolved alongside culture (and controversy). Plus the duo have a sip of the Northern Red from Boat Rocker Brewers in Victoria.
The highlight of the episode is a brilliant, down-to-earth interview with rising star Jorgia Rice, fresh off winning the Victorian RAW Comedy finals. Just over a year into her stand-up journey, Jorgia chats about her rapid rise, humble beginnings in Frankston, and what it feels like to be heading to the national finals at Melbourne Town Hall. It’s equal parts inspiring and hilarious, showcasing exactly why she’s one to watch.
Plus, the usual mix of festival chatter, quirky comedy facts (yes, including pregnancy tests involving frogs), and a classic “funny in the moment” story featuring Bunnings sausages and a dog with a mullet.
Links:Girls Just Wanna Have Puns show at MICF: Click here
Boat Rocker Brewers Northern Red: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Jorgia Rice's Hard Knock Knocks graduation performance: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 15 of This Week in Comedy sees Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes in lively, free-flowing form as they juggle industry insights, festival hype and plenty of offbeat humour.
With the Melbourne International Comedy Festival just days away, the hosts lean into the growing excitement around its 40th anniversary. They spotlight a mix of shows and talent set to take over the city, while also previewing the Business of Comedy Conference, running April 16–18. Framed as a must-attend for performers and industry professionals alike, the conference represents the more strategic side of comedy, where creativity meets economics.
A highlight of the episode is Morry’s interview with Wilbur Wilde, a veteran of Australian entertainment whose career spans decades. Wilde brings a unique perspective on the intersection of music and comedy, reflecting on the evolution of live performance and the enduring importance of laughter. His upcoming appearance at the conference, speaking on the “laughter economy”, reinforces the idea that comedy is not just an art form, but a serious contributor to culture and business.
The episode also tips its hat to Sammy J, with the hosts praising his sharp political humour and jokingly suggesting he could be a future prime minister. It’s a moment that perfectly captures the show’s tone: insightful, but never taking itself too seriously.
In between the bigger topics, the hosts go on tangents that range from behind-the-scenes TV set chatter to absurd personal anecdotes. One standout segment is the beer review, where they sample the Hargreaves Hill Dortmund Lager. The verdict is positive, with particular appreciation for the classic 375 ml can size, which the pair should be written into law.
Links:Hargreaves Hills Dortmund Lager: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
Business of Comedy Conference session featuring Wilbur Wilde: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 14 of This Week in Comedy features hosts Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes diving into the latest stories, gossip, and oddities from the comedy world with their usual mix of banter and industry insight. The episode opens with playful tension between the pair, joking about astrology, personality traits, and who should really be welcoming whom back to the studio.
The conversation quickly shifts to major developments in the Australian comedy scene, beginning with the announcement of the Sydney Comedy Festival’s biggest program yet, boasting more than 400 shows. Morry and Lily highlight several headline acts, including international star Tiffany Haddish and Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd. While Lily admits she wasn’t completely sold on the Netflix hit, the hosts agree that Gadd’s notoriety alone is likely to draw curious audiences. The discussion becomes a broader reflection on how television success can revive a comedian’s stand-up career.
They also spotlight family connections in comedy, sharing examples of comedians performing alongside relatives. One standout pairing is Australian comedy icon Pete Rowsthorn performing with his daughter Frankie in their show Smooth and Wrinkly. Morry and Lily reflect on other family acts in comedy, including Marty Fields continuing the legacy of his father, the late Maurie Fields, and Doug Chappel working alongside his son Tyson Chappel. The segment celebrates how comedy can span generations while still evolving with new voices.
The beer of choice for this episode is the Mouth of Melbourne, brewed in South Melbourne at Brewmanity. Morry highlights that this is one of his favourite beers, and Lily recommends the audience check out Brewmanity's rooftop deck and fried pickles!
International comedy also gets attention when the hosts discuss David Cross releasing his ninth stand-up special, The End of the Beginning of the End, on YouTube. Known for his work on Arrested Development, Cross’s irreverent style sparks debate between Morry and Lily about different comedic approaches and the shifting landscape of streaming specials.
Later in the episode, Morry interviews animation producer Ken Cantrell, who is speaking at the upcoming Business of Comedy Conference. Cantrell discusses two projects, Snick and Willow and the developing animated series Peggy and Molly. With performers like Lawrence Mooney, Ross Noble, and Bev Killick attached, the project highlights the crossover between stand-up and animation.
The episode wraps with lighter segments, including a quirky historical fact about the first alarm clock and a “funny in the moment” story from Morry involving two strangers dressed like 1950s detectives at a Melbourne petrol station. As always, Morry Morgan and Lily Geddes balance industry insight with playful storytelling, giving listeners a lively snapshot of what’s happening across the comedy world.
Links:Sydney Comedy Festival: Click here
The Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
The Business of Comedy Conference session with Ken Cantrill: Click here
Mouth of Melbourne by Brewmanity: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode 13 of This Week in Comedy finds hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan powering through a lingering lurgy. From there, they dive into the week’s comedy-adjacent headlines with their trademark mix of pop culture, Australian references, and gentle conspiracy dabbling.
First up is Jim Carrey’s rare public appearance at the César Awards in Paris, which sparked online chaos: plastic surgery, alien theories, “reptilian” conspiracy, and a viral post from drag makeup artist Alexis Stone claiming to be Carrey. They land on the simplest explanation: work done. But hey! They could be wrong.
The mood lifts with genuinely good news: Australian comedy icon Magda Szubanski announces she’s in remission from stage four mantle cell lymphoma. The hosts celebrate her legacy, from Fast Forward characters Michelle and Ferret to netballer Sharon Strzelecki and her role in Babe, calling her a national treasure.
They then circle back to the radio drama between Kyle and Jackie O. With ARN issuing Kyle Sandilands a serious misconduct notice and a 14-day window to remedy the breach, the hosts debate whether that's the end of this comedy duo...and maybe an opportunity for fresh new voices (Hint, hint ARN!). A lighter sidebar follows, with Morry revealing that “Rove McManus” is actually John Henry Michael McManus. We suppose it gets him through customs faster.
A comedy history segment ticks through milestones: Spike Milligan’s death (and his “I told you I was ill” gravestone), Gilbert Gottfried’s birth and voice work, Dr. Seuss trivia, Moonlighting’s premiere, and John Candy’s untimely death.
Beer of the week is Wolf of the Willows’ Chopper West Coast IPA, praised for its bitter finish—then the episode pivots to Morry’s interview with John Delmenico, editor of The Chaser. Delmenico previews his upcoming Business of Comedy Conference panel alongside The Onion’s Scott Dikkers and Silicon Valley writer Andrew J. Nash, arguing satire has always shadowed democracy, shaping how audiences see politicians and power.
The episode closes with oddball facts (Frisbee ashes memorial discs) and darkly relatable parenting jokes, before another plug for the Business of Comedy Conference in April.
Links:The Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
The Business of Comedy Conference session with John Delmenico: Click here
Chopper West Coast IPA: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 12 of This Week in Comedy delivers a lively mix of industry gossip, comedy nostalgia, craft insights, and the usual offbeat banter. The episode opens with weekend reflections, including a rainy but memorable boat cruise along Melbourne’s Yarra River with a lineup of Australian comedy personalities. Among those on board were Elliot Goblet (Jack Levi), Trevor Marmalade, Wilbur Wilde, Luke McGregor’s family, and David “Hughesy” Hughes. Despite the drizzle, Melbourne’s skyline stole the show, providing a cinematic backdrop and reinforcing the sense of community within the comedy scene.
The conversation then shifts to radio drama surrounding Kyle and Jackie O, currently under pressure in the Melbourne market despite their enormous $200 million, 10-year contract. An on-air clash saw Kyle criticise Jackie’s contribution to the show, prompting her to walk off mid-broadcast. The hosts explore whether the blow-up reflects genuine tension or a strategic stunt designed to generate headlines and boost ratings.
Attention turns to the BAFTAs, where Tourette syndrome advocate John Davidson involuntarily shouted a racial slur during a presentation by Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. The team unpacks the broader context, noting the ceremony was pre-recorded and selectively edited, raising questions about production decisions and public reaction, while also clarifying misconceptions about Tourette’s.
Comedy history features throughout, including anniversaries of Comedy Inc., The Simpsons reaching its 500th episode, and the passing of Richard Belzer, best known for Law & Order: SVU but originally a stand-up comedian. There’s also nostalgic discussion of early 2000s sketch television and long-running shows like The Bill.
The “Beer of the Week” segment reviews a 6% Venom IPA in a smaller-than-standard 330ml can, sparking a humorous investigation into shrinkflation and Australia’s alcohol tax system.
A major highlight of Episode 12 is the conversation with Stig Wemyss and Anthony Littlechild, speakers at the upcoming Business of Comedy Conference. They share practical insights into producing, directing, shooting and editing comedy films, emphasising collaboration, improvisation and strong on-set energy.
And the episode wraps up with another “Funny in the Moment” at Bunnings.
Links:The Business of Comedy Conference: Click here
The Business of Comedy Conference session with Stig Weymyss and Anthony Littlechild: Click here
Venom IPA beer: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 11 of This Week in Comedy kicks off with a quick housekeeping correction. Lily and Morry apologise for mistakenly saying comedian Eloise Eftos was from Adelaide when she was actually born in Perth.
In comedy news, the hosts discuss Celeste Barber and her partner Apy Robin (often dubbed “Hot Husband”) separating after 20 years. The tone stays light and speculative as they reflect on Celeste’s evolution from Instagram parody posts to a broader comedy personality, while also joking about modern weight-loss culture and Ozempic. Next up is Jim Jefferies, who has announced his biggest Australian tour to date. The hosts praise his international rise, particularly in the UK and US, and note how unusually well Australia has embraced his success without much tall-poppy backlash, even if some audiences have taken time warming to his edgier material.
Lily then brings up Heathers: The Musical, describing its dark-comedy high school vibe and noting a TikTok-driven resurgence that’s expected to draw both comedy and theatre crowds. A quick aside follows on Ben Bankas, whose controversial joke about a recent homicide caused a venue cancellation, only for the show to move elsewhere and sell out, sparking a broader chat about venues, safety, and free speech.
Comedy history highlights include the deaths of sketch pioneer Sid Caesar (2014) and Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz (2000), plus anniversaries for Wayne’s World (1992) and The Chaser’s War on Everything (2006).
Beer of the week is “Herb Your Enthusiasm”, a raspberry and rosemary sour from Slow Lane Brewing, which they gleefully describe as oddly gin-like. That leads into a Pringles fact: inventor Fredric J. Baur requested some of his ashes be buried in a Pringles can.
The episode’s centrepiece is an interview with Peter Josip, winner of Raw Comedy 2025, who explains the prize trip to Edinburgh to compete in 'So You Think You’re Funny?' Pete even made the final, rare for Australian Raw winners, then performed at the Cyprus International Comedy Festival, and spent months gigging hard in Toronto, landing an agent and spots at clubs like Yuk Yuk’s. Back in Melbourne, he’s slated for Comedy Zone at the Melbourne Comedy Festival.
They wrap with a “Funny in the Moment” story about a son’s school uniform, and a review of Is This Thing On?—praised as a relationship film, but criticised as an unrealistic stand-up movie.
Links:Morry's 'Is This Thing On?' six part TV show: Click here
Will Arnett's 'Is This Thing On?' trainer: Click here
Read more about Peter Josip's Melbourne Comedy Festival Raw Comedy win: Click here
Herb Your Enthusiasm beer: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 10 kicks off back in Melbourne, celebrating a milestone: double digits. The “seven-episode glass ceiling” has been shattered and the duo are officially big kids now, complete with a tangent about pull-ups, bladder control, and the tragically named “Poise” range. Lily even has a joke charting “light, intermediate, heavy” leakage levels, because nothing says showbiz like sneezing statistics.
Morry and Lily then settle into the South Melbourne studio, happy to escape Sydney’s humidity and the constant roar of planes over Newtown. A quick (and slightly too cheeky) 9/11 reference lands, with the question 'too soon?'.
Comedy news begins with Adam Sandler receiving the Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s Modern Master Award for his influence across stand-up, film, and TV. Morry admits Sandler can be a bit slapstick for his taste, but gives a nod to Happy Gilmore. Lily, representing the millennials, rides hard for Big Daddy and Little Nicky, quoting lines and praising Sandler’s underrated serious chops in Click and Uncut Gems.
Next up, Jim Jefferies, who drops in as a surprise set at Melbourne’s Comics Lounge. Morry explains Jefferies’ real name and the extra “e” he added to satisfy a US union rule requiring unique stage names. Shoutout to host Doug Chappell, cruise-photo icon and future podcast guest.
Then it gets darker: US comedian Ben Bankas has six sold-out Minnesota shows cancelled after a controversial joke following a fatal ICE-related shooting. The venue cites threats and safety concerns, sparking a discussion about timing, risk, and when “too soon” becomes “never.”
More screens: Will Arnett’s film Is This Thing On?, directed and co-written by Bradley Cooper, hits Australian cinemas February 5. Morry reveals he made a comedy series with the same title years earlier, nearly picked up by the ABC before leadership changes killed it.
Beer time: Barossa Valley Brewing’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Milkshake Stout (7%, 2.1 standard drinks) tastes like dessert—sweet, gluggy, and dangerously drinkable.
Finally, comedy history: Leslie Nielsen would be 100 today (born February 11, 1926). They toast him, debate titles (Airplane! was Flying High in Australia), and wrap with a teaser interview featuring Tasmanian comedian “Red Ned” Townsend and Lars Calio’s 900,000km Volkswagen Jetta.
Links:Morry's 'Is This Thing On?' six part TV show: Click here
Barossa Valley Brewing’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Milkshake Stout: Click here
Hobart Festival of Comedy: Click here
Red Ned Townsend Instagram: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 9 of This Week in Comedy finds the hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan broadcasting from a makeshift studio in an Airbnb in Newtown, Sydney, swapping their usual setup for a lively, on-the-road energy. Newtown itself becomes an early talking point, described as Sydney’s alternative, youthful, and proudly LGBTQIA+ hub, a Brunswick-meets-St Kilda hybrid with graffiti, share houses, and strong opinions everywhere you turn.
The episode kicks off with reflections on the road trip up from Victoria, including a surprise koala encounter near Shepparton and observations about regional Australia’s growing multiculturalism. From there, the show shifts into comedy news, led by a discussion of Matt Rife’s recent Australian tour and ongoing controversies. The hosts unpack his “rage-bait” persona, tongue-in-cheek apologies, and commercial savvy, noting how controversy, engagement, and branding increasingly go hand-in-hand in modern comedy.
A major focus of the episode is the return of Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School to Sydney for the first time in five years. Recording from Newtown is no coincidence, with the course running at the Newtown Hotel’s Laugh Inn. The hosts highlight the importance of live comedy education post-COVID and the value of rebuilding local scenes.
The episode features an in-depth interview with veteran comedian Tommy Dean, who reflects on decades in Australian comedy. Tommy offers thoughtful insights into how the industry has changed, particularly the impact of social media, fast news cycles, and the pressure on younger comics to chase topical jokes and crowd work. He strongly advocates for solid joke writing, personal storytelling, and being paid properly for gigs — dismantling the myth of “exposure” work along the way.
Later, rising Sydney comic Stella Wu joins the show, fresh from strong festival sets and her Comedy Zone 2026 announcement. She talks about her rapid career momentum, her show Asian Baby Girl, and the surreal realities of joke-writing, family expectations, and creative chaos.
The episode wraps with reflections on Australia’s comedy pipeline, the importance of developing mid-career comics, and a relaxed beer-fuelled sign-off — capturing the spirit of a podcast deeply embedded in the comedy scene, both onstage and behind the scenes.
Links:Raw Comedy entry: Click here
Grifter Pale Ale by the Grifter Brewing Co: Click here
Sydney Comedy Festival: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
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Episode 8 of This Week in Comedy is a loose, lively mix of industry news, cultural commentary, beer tasting and big picture questions about censorship, art and who gets to decide whether is just that - art!
The episode opens with Lily and Morry celebrating making it past seven episodes, swapping stories about a heavy midweek beer session and then cracking into a new brew - the Fig Leaf Saison by Sailors Grave Brewing. Then it's onto the news.
The first major story centres on Dave Hughes, who faced an unusual heckle at a Noosa show when an audience member attempted to shut down jokes about Hughes’ own son. The situation escalated when it emerged the heckler was a carer and both got removed. The hosts unpack how this crosses from traditional heckling into real time moral censorship, praising Hughes for offering the affected fan free tickets and noting it was the first attempted onstage censorship of his 30 year career.
From there, the discussion widens to whether comedy is becoming more policed, especially in the context of large corporate platforms. The Netflix Is a Joke Festival is positioned as a major global event, rivalling Edinburgh and Melbourne, but raising questions about corporate control, promotion, distribution and how much creative freedom comedians will retain under a single powerful brand.
In lighter celebrity news, the hosts touch on the amicable split between Ali Wong and Bill Hader, using it as a springboard to reflect on how difficult relationships can be within the comedy industry. Touring, scheduling and public pressure all take their toll, particularly when both partners are high profile performers.
The regular segment, this week in history, looks at The Kid, the 1921 silent film by Charlie Chaplin, and how it helped prove comedy could sustain emotional, feature length storytelling rather than just short gag reels. They also discuss the invention of the television, and its possible connection to tampons...or not. We're not sure.
But the emotional core of the episode comes with an in depth interview with Craig Quartermaine, who was denied a Queensland arts grant on the grounds that stand-up comedy is “not an art form”. The interview explores the bureaucratic absurdity of the decision, its impact on regional and Indigenous artists, and what it reveals about funding bodies, gatekeeping and cultural stereotypes.
The episode wraps with festival plugs, reflections on dark comedy and censorship, and a reminder that comedy’s job has always been to challenge ideas, provoke discussion and find the funny.
Links:Craig Quartermaine original Reel regarding Queensland grant rejection: Click here
Sailors Grave Brewing Fig Leaf Saison: Click here
The Kid, starring Charlie Chapman: Click here
Learn more about This Week in Comedy by visiting www.thisweekincomedy.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Visa fler