Ian Hislop

Ian Hislop is the long-standing Editor of Private Eye and one of the most prominent figures in British media. He is perhaps best recognised as the permanent team captain on the award-winning BBC quiz programme Have I Got News For You, where he holds the unique distinction of appearing in every episode for over 50 series. His contributions to the industry have been celebrated with the most prestigious accolade from the British Society of Magazine Editors and numerous other broadcasting honours. Beginning his career writing sketches for Spitting Image and Harry Enfield, Hislop expanded into screenwriting for major television projects and films, including the acclaimed Wipers Times. He is a prolific documentary maker whose work explores a diverse range of subjects, from the history of tax and the British railway system to the evolving nature of fake news and social welfare. His expertise as a broadcaster makes him a regular contributor to flagship programmes such as Question Time and University Challenge. As a keynote speaker, Hislop offers an unrivalled perspective on politics, media, and the intricacies of the British legal system. Known for his sharp wit and deep understanding of contemporary affairs, he provides audiences with an engaging and authoritative analysis of the current cultural and political landscape. On stage, Ian Hislop is best known for talks on Politics & Geopolitics. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room. Their work resonates with leaders across Entertainment and Media & Broadcasting, where the themes translate directly into team decisions, customer experience and growth strategy. Ian Hislop is regularly booked for After Dinner Speaker, Performers and Entertainer and Awards Hosts, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A. Based in UK, Ian Hislop travels internationally for engagements. To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how Ian Hislop would approach your audience.