Nish Kumar Returns with a New Show: Politics, Anxiety, and a Shift in Tone
British comedian Nish Kumar has long been recognized for his fiery political satire, railing against racism, neoliberalism, and the Tories with unflinching conviction. In his latest stand-up show, Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe, the former Mash Report host continues his tirades against figures such as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Priti Patel, and Suella Braverman, delivering his characteristic blend of intelligent black-comic polemic. However, this time around, a new element has entered the mix—Kumar’s personal struggles with anxiety and the emotional toll of his work.
Opening the show with a rapid-fire political rant, Kumar revisits familiar territory, delivering jokes at the expense of Liz Truss, Donald Trump, and the billionaire class. The comedian’s ability to dissect and critique the political landscape remains intact, winning over left-leaning audiences with a delivery “like a podcast at double speed,” offering laughs as much for his passion as for the punchlines themselves.
Yet it’s after the interval that Kumar takes a more introspective turn. Reflecting on his mental health, he reveals he’s been in therapy for anxiety and has become increasingly prone to outbursts of rage—particularly amusing when aimed at Boris Johnson’s motorcade. Kumar also explores his insecurities, arrogance, and discomfort with mainstream comedy, turning his frustrations into fodder for his material. A notable shift emerges as he balances his typically hard-hitting political commentary with personal insights, inviting the audience into his battle with anxiety as he approaches his 40s.
While the political commentary remains sharp, this more navel-gazing direction showcases Kumar as an anxious man clinging to his convictions in a world that frequently leaves him disillusioned. The shift doesn’t diminish the effectiveness of his comedy but adds new layers to it, giving the audience a fuller portrait of the man behind the political rants. Whether it’s through his political polemics or self-deprecating reflections, Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe offers a compelling mix of humor, intellect, and emotional vulnerability that keeps audiences engaged.
