Comedy / stand up comedy
Chemistry teacher turned TikTok comedian: Blackburn star Shabaz Ali on his debut standup tour
Blackburn chemistry teacher turned TikTok comedian, social campaigner and the BBC’s official Dr. Who podcast host, Shabaz Ali is something of a cultural phenomenon.
His work has received global attention and a clutch of awards, including Comedy Creator of the Year at the B Creator Awards and Channel of the Year at the Asian Media Awards in 2023 – the same year that he was invited to take over BBC Radio 1 for their review of the year show.
In November 2024, Ali was announced as an ambassador for Save The Children, a cause close to his heart.
He will be running the London Marathon in April 2025 as part of #teamsave, to raise money for the charity.
Known online as Shabaz Says, he has built up a huge following for his split-screen I’m Rich You’re Poor videos – which have now spawned a book, and a podcast of the same name.
Ali presents to his loyal community – now in the millions – his honest reactions to the idealised lives being presented on social media, responding to influencers and the must-have products they endorse.
Beneath the humour, his rapid success is testament to a growing desire for authenticity in public life, in stark contrast to the experiences that he lampoons.
Embarking on his debut UK tour, Ali will be visiting 24 towns and cities over a six-week period this spring, calling at the Hen & Chicken Studio on March 6.
“I’m so excited to be going on tour!” Ali says. “I’ve loved making people laugh online and building an incredible community.
“My success has always been down to the people who watch and engage with the comedy, whether it’s online or as part of the book and now I can’t wait for us all to come together IRL, make the show and make it a night to remember.”
Shabaz Ali: I’m Rich, You’re Poor is at the Hen and Chicken Studio on March 6 at 8pm. Tickets are available at www.henandchicken.com. Follow Shabaz @shabazsays.
All photos: courtesy of Mick Perrin Worldwide
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