United Talent Agency (UTA) has signed British comedian Simon Brodkin, widely recognized as one of the U.K.’s most daring and exciting stand-up performers. The move marks a significant step in Brodkin’s career as he continues to build international momentum.
From Characters to Stand-Up Success
Brodkin first rose to fame through outrageous comedic personas, including the brash “Lee Nelson” and fictional footballer Jason Bent. He later became infamous for headline-grabbing pranks targeting public figures such as Donald Trump, Kanye West, and former FIFA president Sepp Blatter. These stunts earned him the nickname “the world’s most famous blagger.”
In recent years, Brodkin reinvented himself by focusing on stand-up comedy under his own name. His 170-date international Screwed Up tour was extended four times due to overwhelming demand, including a performance at the Royal Variety Show before Prince William and Kate Middleton. The tour’s recording, released on YouTube, became the most viewed U.K. comedy special to premiere on the platform, with clips drawing millions of views.
UTA’s Commitment
Bjorn Wentlandt, UTA’s London-based comedy touring agent, praised Brodkin’s rise. “Simon is truly in the Premier League of U.K. stand-ups. We are looking forward to many years of success as he continues his unstoppable rise to the top.” Wentlandt highlighted Brodkin’s reinvention as a digital-first comedian, noting his ability to connect with audiences worldwide. Brodkin expressed excitement about the partnership: “I wanted elite-level representation for my international tours, and with Bjorn and UTA I have signed with the best in class.”
Global Touring Ambitions
UTA plans to accelerate Brodkin’s success across international markets, including the U.S., with a focus on touring opportunities. The agency’s comedy touring department, with offices in Nashville, New York, Los Angeles, and London, will support his expansion.
Infamous Hoaxes
Brodkin’s career has also been defined by bold pranks. In 2016, he disrupted the reopening of Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland by handing out golf balls marked with swastikas. In 2017, he interrupted then-U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservative Party conference speech with a fake termination notice. In 2015, he showered FIFA president Sepp Blatter with fake dollar bills during a press conference. He even joined Kanye West on stage at Glastonbury Festival.
Joining UTA’s Comedy Lineup
Brodkin now joins UTA’s growing international comedy roster, which includes Celeste Barber, Vittorio Angelone, Zakir Khan, Grace Campbell, Dan and Phil, Red Richardson, Vir Das, and Foil, Arms and Hog. His addition strengthens UTA’s position as a leader in global comedy representation.
