Shaparak Khorsandi

Shappi Khorsandi 02 (cropped)

Shaparak "Shappi" Khorsandi (born 8 June 1973) is a British-Iranian comedian and author. She is known for her stand-up comedy and her appearances on various television and radio shows. Khorsandi's comedy often draws on her experiences as an immigrant and her observations on British culture.

Early Life

Shaparak Khorsandi was born in Tehran, Iran, to the Iranian satirist and poet Hadi Khorsandi. Her family moved to the United Kingdom in the late 1970s following the Iranian Revolution. She grew up in Ealing, London, and attended Drayton Manor High School. Khorsandi later studied at the University of Winchester, where she earned a degree in Drama.

Career

Khorsandi began her career in comedy in the early 2000s. She quickly gained recognition for her sharp wit and engaging storytelling. She has performed at numerous comedy festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where she has been a regular performer.

Stand-Up Comedy

Khorsandi's stand-up routines often explore themes of identity, immigration, and family. She has released several comedy specials and has toured extensively in the UK and internationally.

Television and Radio

Khorsandi has appeared on a variety of television shows, including Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, and Have I Got News for You. She has also been a guest on radio programs such as The News Quiz and Just a Minute.

Writing

In addition to her work in comedy, Khorsandi is an accomplished author. She has written several books, including her memoir A Beginner's Guide to Acting English, which details her experiences growing up as an immigrant in the UK. She has also written a novel, Nina is Not OK, which addresses themes of addiction and recovery.

Personal Life

Khorsandi is an advocate for various social causes, including human rights and freedom of speech. She has spoken publicly about her experiences with mental health and has been involved in campaigns to raise awareness about these issues.

Awards and Recognition

Khorsandi has received several awards for her contributions to comedy and literature. She was nominated for the Chortle Awards and has been recognized by the British Comedy Awards.

See Also

• List of British comedians
• Iranian diaspora
• Women in comedy