Melbourne’s comedy calendar is stacked with international heavyweights bringing their latest tours to town

Three comedians named Jimmy walk into Melbourne this summer – and no, that’s not the setup to a joke, it’s just our actual comedy lineup.

The city’s biggest venues are rolling out the red carpet for a stellar lineup of international comics, each bringing their unique brand of humour to eager audiences.

Whether you’re into observational comedy, political satire, or something completely off the wall, there’s a show on this list that’ll have you doubled over. From intimate club gigs at The Comic’s Lounge to arena spectaculars at John Cain, these touring comics are pulling out all the stops.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

Preacher Lawson

• 13 November, 7pm
• The Comic’s Lounge
• Tickets here

The America’s Got Talent finalist and social media sensation brings his high-energy physical comedy to Melbourne for one night only. Known for his animated storytelling and infectious enthusiasm, Preacher Lawson has built a massive following through his appearances on AGT and his viral videos that rack up millions of views. His Melbourne show promises the same boundless energy that made him a breakout star on the competition circuit, combining sharp observational humour with his signature theatrical delivery style.

John Bishop

• 30 November, 8pm
• Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall
• Tickets here

Liverpool’s favourite son returns to Melbourne with his latest tour, bringing his working-class wit and everyman charm to the prestigious Hamer Hall. John Bishop has become one of Britain’s most beloved comedians through his relatable stories about family life, getting older, and navigating modern Britain. His warm, conversational style has made him a regular on British television, and his live shows feel more like catching up with an old mate at the pub than watching a polished comedy performance.

Nurse Blake

• 20 February, 7pm
• Athenaeum Theatre
• Tickets here

The social media phenomenon turned touring sensation brings his medical comedy show to Melbourne’s historic Athenaeum Theatre. Nurse Blake has turned the trials and tribulations of healthcare work into comedy gold, creating content that resonates with anyone who’s ever worked in medicine or been a patient. His show combines hilarious hospital stories with spot-on impressions and observations about the healthcare system, offering both cathartic laughs for medical professionals and insights for everyone else.

Jimmy O. Yang

• 6 December, 9:30pm
• Margaret Court Arena
• Tickets here

The Silicon Valley star and stand-up comedian brings his razor-sharp wit to one of Melbourne’s biggest venues. Jimmy O. Yang has successfully straddled the worlds of acting and stand-up, bringing his experiences as an Asian-American in Hollywood to the stage with brilliant results. His comedy tackles everything from immigrant family dynamics to tech culture, delivered with the perfect mix of self-deprecation and confidence that’s made him a favourite on the international comedy circuit.

Reggie Watts

• 13 November, 7pm
• Melbourne Recital Centre
• Tickets here

The genre-defying performer brings his unique blend of comedy, music, and improvisation to the Melbourne Recital Centre. Reggie Watts isn’t your typical stand-up comedian – he’s a one-man variety show who uses loop pedals, beatboxing, and his incredible vocal range to create comedy that exists in its own universe. Former bandleader for The Late Late Show with James Corden, Watts creates entire musical landscapes on the spot while weaving in surreal humour and philosophical musings.

Jeff Dye

• 21 November, 7pm
• The Comic’s Lounge
• Tickets here

The American comedian and television personality brings his laid-back observational comedy to Melbourne for an intimate club show. Jeff Dye has appeared on countless comedy specials and competition shows, developing a style that’s both accessible and clever. His material covers everything from dating disasters to family dysfunction, delivered with the kind of casual confidence that makes even his most outrageous stories feel believable.

Jimmy Carr

• 7 May, 8pm
• John Cain Arena
• Tickets here

The master of the one-liner returns to Melbourne for what promises to be his biggest Australian show yet. Jimmy Carr’s distinctive laugh and rapid-fire delivery have made him one of the most recognisable voices in comedy, and his willingness to push boundaries ensures his shows are never predictable. Known for his dark humour and audience interaction, Carr’s arena shows are meticulously crafted experiences that somehow feel both massive in scale and surprisingly intimate.

Jimmy Dore

• 22 November, 4pm
• The Comic’s Lounge
• Tickets here

The political comedian and podcast host brings his no-holds-barred commentary to Melbourne for an afternoon of satirical stand-up. Jimmy Dore has carved out a unique space in comedy by combining aggressive political critique with traditional stand-up, creating shows that are equal parts informative and hilarious. His Melbourne appearance promises his trademark takedowns of political hypocrisy from across the spectrum, delivered with the passion of someone who genuinely cares about the issues he’s lampooning.

For more information, head here.

This article was made in partnership with Bohm.