Shaparak Khorsandi

Shappi Khorsandi comedian, host, writer, and speaker on diversity, inclusion, and mental health.

Shappi Khorsandi is a celebrated comedian, writer, and speaker with a sharp wit and an ever-changing, engaging delivery. Known for her ability to seamlessly blend humour with heartfelt insight, Shappi’s performances and speeches explore topics ranging from the challenges of single motherhood to her family’s need to escape from Iran as a result of her father’s satirical poetry.

A familiar face on British TV and radio, Shappi has appeared on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, QI, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, I’m a Celebrity: Get Me Out of Here, Mock the Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and MasterChef. Her knowledge and versatility make her equally at home on serious programmes like Question Time just as much as Just a Minute.

As a keynote speaker and awards host, Shappi brings her humour to even the most serious topics, offering new perspectives on diversity, inclusion, and on mental health. Drawing on her experiences as a female comic breaking into a male-dominated industry, she connects with audiences through a candid style and a razor-sharp delivery. She is one of those performers able to make judgments on how to balance gravitas with humour.

Shappi is also an accomplished author. Her childhood memoir, A Beginner’s Guide to Acting English, was described by Emma Thompson as ‘very funny’ and ‘filled with laughter, wonder, and compassion’. Her novel, Nina Is Not OK, won critical acclaim for its moving, funny, and shocking portrayal of coming of age, resilience and personal growth. It has been described as dark, and funny and  sometimes shocking.

With her natural warmth, intelligence, standup comedy skills, and genuine charisma, Shappi is a great choice as a host. Shappi has hosted high level London awards events at Old Billingsgate for Specialist Speakers.

Contact Shappi Khorsandi via a Specialist Speakers agent to book speaking engagements both in-person and virtually.