The talent and entertainment company UTA has signed British comedian Simon Brodkin, recognizing him as “one of the U.K.’s most exciting stand-up comedians.” Brodkin has gained prominence in both digital and live comedy, previously known for his outrageous characters, particularly the brash “comedy legend” Lee Nelson and the fictional superstar soccer player Jason Bent. His career has also included high-profile pranks targeting figures such as Donald Trump, Kanye West, and former FIFA president Sepp Blatter.
Brodkin recently completed a remarkable 170-date international tour titled “Screwed Up,” which was extended four times due to increased demand for tickets. His performance at the Royal Variety Performance in front of Prince William and Kate Middleton further showcased his appeal. Additionally, he released a recording of “Screwed Up” on YouTube, which became the most viewed U.K. comedy special on the platform, with his stand-up clips consistently attracting millions of views online.
Strategic Partnership for Global Expansion
“We’re very excited to work with Simon, who is truly in the Premier League of U.K. stand-ups,” said Bjorn Wentlandt, UTA’s London-based comedy touring agent. He expressed optimism about Brodkin’s potential for continued success, stating, “We look forward to many years of success as he continues his extraordinary, incredible, unstoppable rise to the top.”
Wentlandt highlighted Brodkin’s career resurgence, noting, “Simon had early TV and touring success. Since going through a reinvention, he has had this massive resurgence in his career by leaning into the digital space as himself.” Brodkin himself expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “I wanted elite level representation for my international tours, and with Bjorn and UTA, I have signed with the best in class.” The primary aim of this collaboration is to enhance Brodkin’s global presence, particularly in the U.S. market, focusing on touring opportunities.
A History of High-Profile Pranks and Publicity
Brodkin, often referred to as “the world’s most famous blagger,” is known for his comedic hoaxes that have drawn significant media attention. Notably, in June 2016, he disrupted the re-opening of the Trump Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, distributing golf balls marked with red swastikas, a stunt that occurred before Trump’s first presidential election victory.
In October 2017, he gained headlines for interrupting then-U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May during her speech at the Conservative Party conference, presenting her with a fabricated employment termination form amidst speculation regarding her potential replacement by Boris Johnson, who later succeeded her.
Moreover, Brodkin made waves in 2015 when he showered Sepp Blatter with fake dollar bills, during a time when FIFA was embroiled in corruption scandals. His unexpected appearance on stage with Kanye West at the Glastonbury Festival further illustrates his flair for blending comedy with real-world events.
Brodkin’s addition to UTA enhances the agency’s growing international comedy roster, which includes notable names such as Celeste Barber, Zakir Khan, and Vir Das. As UTA aims to leverage its extensive comedy touring department with offices across Nashville, New York, Los Angeles, and London, Brodkin is well-positioned for a successful period ahead.
