Claire Hooper
Australian Comedian, Television Host and Performer
Claire Hooper is an award-winning Australian comedian, television presenter, writer, actress, and director known for her intelligent humour, creative live performances, and engaging television appearances. With a successful career across comedy, theatre, radio, and television, Claire Hooper has become one of Australia’s most respected entertainers.
Before moving into stand-up comedy, Claire Hooper worked extensively in children’s and adult theatre in Perth, Western Australia, both as an actress and director. She studied Theatre Studies at Curtin University and also worked professionally writing, directing, and designing costumes for youth theatre productions.
Comedy Career and Festival Success
Claire Hooper began gaining national recognition in 2004 after winning the Western Australian finals of Triple J’s Raw Comedy competition.
In 2005, she was selected to perform in The Comedy Zone at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and also received the “Best and Fairest” award at the National Improvisation Championships in Sydney.
Claire quickly became known for her original and inventive comedy performances. Following a personal health scare involving surgery for a goitre, she created the critically acclaimed live show Oh in 2006. Remarkably, the performance featured no spoken dialogue, with Claire communicating through recorded audio, mime, handwritten signs, video, and breakdancing. The show received widespread praise and earned a nomination for Best Newcomer at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Her following live shows continued to showcase her creativity and storytelling talent. In 2007, she performed Show Girl, inspired by pop icon Kylie Minogue, followed by her 2008 solo show Storybook at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Television and Radio Career
Since 2005, Claire Hooper has made numerous appearances across Australian television and radio.
Her television credits include stand-up performances on Stand Up Australia and Rove Live, as well as presenting roles on How the Quest Was Won and regular appearances on The Sideshow.
Claire also participated in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Great Debate alongside Stephen K Amos and Greg Fleet, which aired nationally on Network Ten.
In 2008, Claire Hooper joined the popular comedy panel show Good News Week as a regular team captain, replacing Julie McCrossin. She later appeared in the dark comedy miniseries Sleuth 101 as the guest detective.
Hosting The Great Australian Bake Off
In 2015, Claire Hooper and fellow comedian Mel Buttle were announced as co-hosts of the second season of The Great Australian Bake Off. The series aired on LifeStyle Food and introduced Claire to an even broader Australian audience through her warm, funny, and relatable hosting style.
Why Audiences Love Claire Hooper
Claire Hooper is admired for her originality, quick wit, and creative approach to comedy and entertainment. Whether performing live stand-up, appearing on television, or hosting major programs, Claire continues to entertain audiences with her intelligence, humour, and authentic personality.
