Tom Gleeson
Tom Gleeson is one of Australia’s most successful and respected stand-up comedians. Known for his sharp wit, fearless humour, and intelligent comedy, Tom Gleeson has built an impressive career across live performance, television, writing, and international comedy festivals. Widely regarded as “the comedian comedians watch,” he remains a favourite with audiences throughout Australia and around the world.
Tom Gleeson’s Comedy Career
Tom Gleeson has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious comedy festivals, including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. He has also appeared multiple times at the exclusive invitation-only Kilkenny Comedy Festival in Ireland.
His reputation within the comedy industry is reflected by numerous accolades, including two Helpmann Award nominations and the highly respected Piece of Wood Comedian’s Choice Award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
International comedy superstar Louis CK personally selected Tom Gleeson as his support act for an Australian tour, a testament to the respect he commands among fellow comedians.
International Performances
Throughout his career, Tom Gleeson has entertained audiences across Australia and around the globe. He has performed at the iconic Sydney Opera House and in every Australian capital city.
Internationally, Tom has taken his stand-up comedy to cities including London, Dublin, New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Jakarta. He has also performed for Australian troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, bringing laughter and entertainment to military personnel stationed overseas.
From 2001 to 2007, Tom was a regular performer on the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, touring extensively throughout Australia and helping bring comedy to regional audiences.
Tom Gleeson as an Author
In addition to his success as a comedian, Tom Gleeson is also a published author.
His book, Playing Poker with the SAS: A Comedy Tour of Iraq and Afghanistan, chronicles his experiences entertaining Australian troops overseas. He also contributed the story The Italian Job to Take Me With You, a collection of long-distance love stories edited by Sarah MacDonald and published by Random House.
Live Comedy Shows
Tom Gleeson continues to attract large audiences with his live stand-up tours.
In 2012, he returned to the stage with his show Good One, performing at major comedy festivals including the Adelaide Fringe, Brisbane Comedy Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Perth International Comedy Festival, and Sydney Comedy Store.
In 2013, Tom launched his highly successful tour Hello Bitches, which became one of the biggest-selling tours of his career. Audiences packed venues across Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney to see the acclaimed comedian perform live.
He later returned to the festival circuit with his show Quality, delivering the intelligent and cutting-edge comedy that has become his trademark.
Television Career
Tom Gleeson has become a familiar face on Australian television through numerous appearances on comedy and entertainment programs.
One of his notable television roles was as a panellist and co-host on Network Ten’s This Week Live. Alongside fellow comedians Meshel Laurie, Tommy Little, and Dave Thornton, Tom reviewed current events and popular culture through a comedic lens.
His regular segment, I Hate You, Change My Mind, quickly became a cult favourite and showcased his unique ability to blend humour with social commentary.
Awards and Recognition
Tom Gleeson’s talent has earned praise from critics and audiences alike throughout his career. His ability to combine intelligent observations with fearless comedy has made him one of Australia’s most respected performers.
His achievements include:
- Winner of the Piece of Wood Comedian’s Choice Award
- Two-time Helpmann Award nominee
- Regular performer at leading international comedy festivals
- Selected by Louis CK as an Australian tour support act
- Long-standing contributor to Australia’s live comedy scene
Critical Acclaim
Tom Gleeson’s live performances have received outstanding reviews from major Australian publications.
The Age described him as:
“Whip-smart and gobsmackingly shocking at times.”
Time Out praised his comedy as:
“Highly amusing and right on the money.”
The Herald Sun referred to him as:
“The charming, smiling assassin strikes again.”
The Age also highlighted his trademark style, calling his material:
“White-hot gags.”
Why Book Tom Gleeson?
Tom Gleeson is an outstanding choice for corporate events, conferences, awards nights, and special functions. His quick thinking, professional stage presence, and proven ability to connect with audiences make him one of Australia’s most sought-after comedians and event entertainers.
Whether performing stand-up comedy, hosting an event, or delivering a keynote appearance, Tom Gleeson consistently delivers intelligent, engaging, and unforgettable entertainment.
