Laurie Kilmartin, the Peabody award-winning comedy writer known for her work on Jimmy Kimmel and Conan O’Brien, brings a fierce and filthy talent to the stage in her London debut. Her crude, acute humor and dark punchlines make for a scattergun hour that is both exhilarating and uneven.
Laurie Kilmartin's London Debut: A Fierce and Filthy Hour
Kilmartin’s set jumps through decades, touching on school bullies, the need for better assassins, and the limited dating pool of men over 50. Her pitch-black quality shines in tales like her abusive swim coach anecdote, while other bits feel drier, as if dusted off from a previous era. She lingers too long on lockdowns and a Charlie Kirk moment that missed its moment, yet her US political commentary earns easy winners.
Get the #1 Wireless Door Camera
REOLINK Bestseller: 2K Weatherproof Video Doorbell, No Monthly Fees.
The Oscars Gag-Writer's Bold Humor
Having written for the last two Oscars ceremonies, Kilmartin is most confident in finely tuned bits delivered with blazing bullishness. However, the loose, fragmented show structure causes her to flounder during transitions between unrelated set pieces. Audience participation moments are less commanding, with a callback to a language failure in Japan provided by an audience member rather than the comedian.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Comparative Look
| Aspect | Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Writing | Sharp, dark, and finely tuned for Oscars-level timing | Some material feels dated or irrelevant |
| Delivery | Confident and intense with a wide smile | Struggles with transitions and audience interaction |
| Relevance to UK Crowd | Political commentary resonates universally | Frequent reference checks and math conversions distract |
Key Takeaways from the Show
- Kilmartin’s humor is crude, acute, and fearless—perfect for fans of edgy comedy.
- Her background as an Oscars gag-writer gives her a polished edge, but the set feels like a work-in-progress.
- The show’s tone is standoffish, with an overly highlighted focus on cultural differences.
- Best moments come from her well-rehearsed bits; weakest are during improvised interactions.
FAQ
Who is Laurie Kilmartin?
Laurie Kilmartin is a Peabody award-winning comedy writer and stand-up comedian, best known for her work on Jimmy Kimmel Live and Conan O’Brien. She also wrote for the Oscars ceremonies.
What is the tone of her London debut show?
Her show is fierce, filthy, and painfully honest, blending dark humor with crude jokes. The tone is often standoffish, but her intensity and wit keep audiences engaged.
Does Laurie Kilmartin appeal to UK audiences?
She shows promise but struggles with cultural differences. Her US political commentary lands well, but frequent conversions and references to being an American single mum create a barrier.
Overall, Laurie Kilmartin's London debut is a must-see for fans of no-holds-barred comedy. While the set has rough edges, her undeniable talent and razor-sharp writing make for a memorable evening. For more celebrity stage reviews, stay tuned to GrandGoldman.