Russell Howard Walks Out Of Gig After Audience Member Films His Performance

Russell Howard walks out of Bristol gig

Russell Howard was trying out some new content at a bar in Bristol last week.

It all went pear-shaped however, when he noticed an audience member was filming his performance.

The comedian reportedly became so frustrated by this that he cut his set short, and walked out.

 

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According to Bristol Live, Russell told the woman, "that’s literally the worst thing you can do."

He also advised her to, "live in the moment," before asking how she'd feel if someone started filming her.

The comedian allegedly took out his phone, and started aiming it at the lady, mimicking her actions.

 

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Russell said comedians are a, "dying breed," because they're terrified people will film their performance, post it online, and ruin their act.

The TV presenter told the crowd he's just going to do, "safe material from now on."

He kicked off an old routine, but he was clearly still frustrated by what had just happened.

 

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Bristol Live report he stopped the performance, turned to the woman, and told her, "you've ruined it now."

He said, "I was really looking forward to this gig."

Russell picked up his stuff and walked out.

 

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The event organiser comments

Event organiser and compère Mark Olver told Bristol Live that he understands why Russell cut the gig short.

He said, 'It's important that when acts are trying out new material people should understand they don't want video of it out there.'

'Sets at this kind of event are a work in progress.'

 

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Olver continued, 'Most people understand this but I should have been clearer at the start of the gig in explaining it to people.'

'I like creating a space where comics feel free to experiment and comfortable trying new things.'

'And I totally get why Russell cut his set a bit short.'

 

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When in Wembley!! #wembley #arena #london #standup #comedy #queen #freddiemercury #Respite

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Russell's spokesperson comments

'Any comedian whose set is being recorded at a new material night would find it distracting.'

'The beauty of live performance particularly at this strange time is it's intended for the room only.'

 

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I’m back with #TheRussellHowardHour series 3 next Thursday 7th November at 10pm on Sky One

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No further comment has been made.