Athena Kugblenu

Athena Kugblenu is a comedian, writer and broadcaster whose sharp wit and intelligent comedy translates complex social and political ideas into accessible, laugh-out-loud entertainment. She has written for Horrible Histories, The Lenny Henry Show and Dead Ringers, and appears regularly on Mock the Week, The News Quiz and Breaking the News, whilst her BBC Radio 4 show Athena's Cancel Culture showcases her distinctive voice. Audiences leave her sessions equipped with fresh perspectives on challenging topics, energised by her ability to tackle uncomfortable truths with humour, warmth and intellectual rigour that sparks meaningful conversation and lasting behavioural change.

When Athena Kugblenu performed at the Johannesburg International Comedy Festival in 2017, she brought with her a distinctive comedic voice that has since become a defining force across British radio, television and live performance. Nominated for the 99 Club Female Comedians' bursary early in her career, she has developed two critically acclaimed Edinburgh Festival Fringe shows, with another set to premiere at the 2026 festival. Her journey from a successful career in the public sector into comedy demonstrates a commitment to using laughter as a vehicle for challenging assumptions and questioning the narratives we accept without scrutiny.

Her writing credits span some of British comedy's most respected platforms, including Horrible Histories, The Lenny Henry Show and Dead Ringers, whilst her regular appearances on Mock the Week, The News Quiz and Breaking the News have established her as a trusted voice on panel shows that demand both quick wit and intellectual substance. Athena's BBC Radio 4 show, Athena's Cancel Culture, showcases her ability to navigate complex social and political terrain with humour and nuance, and is available now on BBC Sounds. Beyond broadcasting, she hosts her own podcast, Keeping Athena Company, and has co-hosted The Guilty Feminist, demonstrating her versatility across different comedic formats. Her work extends to voiceover artistry and appearances on programmes including The Now Show, DMs Are Open and You're Dead To Me, whilst her new book, History's Most Epic Fails, brings her myth-busting approach to younger audiences.

Athena transforms events into spaces where audiences feel both entertained and intellectually energised, tackling uncomfortable truths with a warmth that invites reflection rather than defensiveness. Her school workshops, such as History's Most Epic Fibs – Busted!, equip young people with the critical thinking skills to question accepted wisdom and spot misinformation, whilst her corporate and festival appearances leave audiences with fresh perspectives on challenging topics. Through her ability to make complex social commentary accessible and genuinely funny, she creates lasting impact that extends well beyond the laughter, sparking meaningful conversations and encouraging audiences to examine their own assumptions with curiosity, courage and a healthy dose of humour.