In an in-depth interview ahead of his new stand-up tour, British comedian Nish Kumar reflects on his career, his approach to comedy, and the increasingly polarised debates surrounding free speech and offence in humour.

Known for his work on programmes such as The Mash Report and his frequent appearances on panel shows, Kumar speaks candidly about the tension between being outspoken and the backlash it can generate, particularly when criticising fellow comedians.

He addresses the ongoing cultural debate around so-called ‘punching up’ versus ‘punching down’ in comedy, arguing that humour is more complex than simple moral categories.

Kumar criticises what he sees as transphobic or socially harmful material in parts of contemporary stand-up, and suggests that some comedians fail to recognise the wider political implications of their work.

He emphasises that the safety and dignity of marginalised groups matter more to him than professional approval from high-profile figures such as Ricky Gervais or Jimmy Carr.

The interview also explores Kumar’s personal background, including his upbringing in Croydon as the child of Keralan immigrants, his education, and his early experiences in comedy at university.He reflects on his time hosting The Mash Report, its eventual cancellation, and his continuing interest in political satire.

Despite his reputation for outspoken criticism, Kumar also speaks warmly about some of his peers and reflects on the long-term legacy of comedy, questioning whether his own work will endure.He describes comedy as a potential historical document of its time, capturing shifting political and cultural attitudes.

His forthcoming tour, titled Angry Humour from a Really Nice Guy, continues his style of combining political frustration with personal reflection and self-aware humour.