Jason Manford calls for comedy culture overhaul

Jason Manford has called for a significant overhaul of comedy culture to ensure it functions as a secure environment for all participants and audiences. The comedian's appeal comes amid serious sex offence allegations being investigated by the Metropolitan Police against David Walliams and the recent conviction of Russell Brand.

Brand, aged 51, was sentenced to 10-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. This conviction has intensified discussions surrounding conduct within the entertainment industry.

Addressing Industry Norms

Speaking on Times Radio, Manford, 45, articulated his view that the foundational aspects of comedy culture need addressing. "There are lots of ways of trying to make sure that it feels like a safe place for everybody," he told Lara Spirit. "You’ve got to fix it at that level, at the basic level, so that it can seep right into the upper echelons and the upper tier."

Manford highlighted the need to examine the boundaries of free speech within comedy. "There are definitely jokes that I’ve seen and heard that I think, bloomin’ heck, come on, people have come out for a good time here and this is not a subject we should be laughing about or joking about," he stated.

Historical Context and Future Direction

The comedian attributed current issues partly to the historical male dominance within the industry. "Comedy has always skewed towards men," Manford explained. However, he noted the changing landscape, stating, "Now we’re in 2026 where some of the best comics in the world are women."

He stressed the importance of adaptation at all levels, from grassroots to professional circuits. "We’ve got to start adapting both ways," Manford continued. "whether that’s backstage in the upper echelons, but also at grassroots level, getting to that point where even at schools and colleges we’re saying, look, this idea that comedy is solely for lads is not true."

Manford concluded by emphasizing that comedy's primary purpose is entertainment and that content should be inclusive. "It seems silly to have to say it but fundamentally, it’s there for entertainment purposes and if we’re saying jokes or talking about subjects that are not for everybody or aiming at smaller groups or minorities, I just think we’re going back to the 60s and 70s here. Let’s stay in 2026 and act accordingly."