‘There’s a massive culture of sexism in comedy’: comedian Síomha Hennessy

Síomha promoting her five star comedy show at the 2024 Fringe Festival (Photo: SiomhaH/X) The revelations about Russel Brand and David Walliams are shocking. But they weren’t at all surprising for comedian Síomha Hennessy. “It goes way beyond Brand,” she told Socialist Worker. “It’s a whole culture. His crimes are on the extreme end of what society lets powerful men do. “That’s what it comes down to,” she continued. “Because stars like Brand were making a lot of money for some people. And I think that’s one reason it’s only coming out now—it’s been a long time since Brand was working in television or in the comedy industry, or frankly, has been relevant. “I hope the verdict on Brand is a turning point, or a landmark. But currently the system remains intact and the toxicity is still here. “Sexism in comedy and entertainment isn’t just down to a few powerful celebrities. Comedy is a total boys’ club,” she said.

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