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Available to book

Satirist, editor & broadcaster

Ian Hislop

Explore the nuances of satire and media with Ian Hislop, speaker, editor of "Private Eye" and broadcaster.

Trusted by Private Eye, BBC, Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The One Show

Ian Hislop, Comedian | Editor, Broadcaster, Satirist
Ian Hislop

Ian Hislop

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£26k–50k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£26k–50k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Ian Hislop's biography

At a glance

  • Editor of Private Eye magazine
  • Team captain on Have I Got News For You
  • Renowned British satirist and broadcaster
Ian Hislop is the editor of "Private Eye" and the team captain of "Have I Got News For You", where he has appeared in every episode of over 50 series. The show has won multiple awards and often makes headlines. He has received the highest honour from the British Society of Magazine Editors and is a prominent broadcaster, presenting documentaries on history, politics, art, and religion. In addition to his roles on "HIGNFY" and "Private Eye", Ian frequently appears on TV and radio as a commentator and guest. His credits include "Question Time", the professional version of "University Challenge", and "The One Show". His programmes have addressed fake news, the scout movement, taxation, railways, and modern and historical perspectives on immigration, bankers, and benefits. As one of Britain’s notable satirists, Ian began by writing sketches for "Spitting Image" and "Harry Enfield" before moving on to screenplays. He co-wrote the BBC sitcom "My Dad’s The Prime Minister" and the film "The Wipers Times", which centres on the satirical paper created by soldiers during the First World War. In his after-dinner speeches, Ian shares insights on litigation, drawing from his experiences as the most sued man in Britain. He discusses his attempts to increase overseas sales of "Private Eye" and highlights the challenges of entering the export market.

Why we recommend booking Ian

Book Ian Hislop to inspire your team with his sharp wit and unique insights on media, politics, and satire. His engaging storytelling and expertise will spark thought-provoking discussions, making your event memorable and impactful.

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Trusted by Private Eye, BBC, Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The One Show

Testimonials

Exactly what we hoped for - Ian entertained us all brilliantly.

Investment Property Forum

Featured Projects

Ian Hislop - Private Eye Annual 2023 book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Ian Hislop for my next event?
Email ian.hislop@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Ian's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Ian Hislop's stage presence like?
Ian Hislop draws on his record as the most sued man in Britain to structure his after-dinner speeches, using litigation anecdotes from his tenure at Private Eye as the running thread. He pairs this with accounts of the magazine's failed attempts to break into overseas markets, giving the format a self-deprecating comic arc rooted in real institutional experience.

What topics does Ian Hislop specialise in?
Ian Hislop is available for after-dinner speaking, drawing on his experiences as the most sued man in Britain and his attempts to expand Private Eye's overseas sales. He has served as editor of Private Eye and team captain on Have I Got News For You across every episode of more than 50 series.

Ian Hislop is available for after-dinner speaking, drawing on his experiences as the most sued man in Britain and his attempts to expand Private Eye's overseas sales. He has served as editor of Private Eye and team captain on Have I Got News For You across every episode of more than 50 series.

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Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

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Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

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When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.