Yuriko Kotani: Culture Shock, Stand-Up in a Second Language & Channel 4 Fame

Yuriko Kotani: Culture Shock, Stand-Up in a Second Language & Channel 4 Fame

🎙️ Episode Overview

In this episode, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with award-winning comedian Yuriko Kotani, whose sharp wit and cultural observations have made her a standout voice in UK comedy. Born in Japan and now based in the UK, Yuriko shares her unique perspective on the British way of life, the language of stand-up, and the surprising realities of her comedy journey, including:

• Culture Shock & Comedy: Turning everyday misunderstandings into hilarious routines.
• Learning Stand-Up in a Second Language: The linguistic hurdles and unexpected advantages.
• British Manners vs. Japanese Etiquette: Finding funny in the contrast.
• Deadpan Delivery: How she carved out her own space in a fast-paced comedy scene.
• Edinburgh Fringe Experiences: The highs, the lows, and the multilingual audiences.

This episode will appeal to anyone who loves smart, cross-cultural comedy, has ever felt like an outsider, or just wants to hear what it’s like doing stand-up in a second language.

🎤 About Yuriko Kotani

Yuriko Kotani is a Japanese-born comedian based in London. She rose to prominence after winning the BBC New Comedy Award and has since appeared on major platforms including Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, Live at the Apollo, and Comedy Central. Known for her clever, observational humour and unique take on cross-cultural life, she continues to build a loyal fanbase across the UK and beyond.

Career Highlights:

• Winner – BBC New Comedy Award
• Live at the Apollo (BBC Two)
• Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central (Comedy Central)
• Pls Like (BBC Three)

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Podcast: Television Times with Steve Otis Gunn

Host: Steve Otis Gunn

Guest: Yuriko Kotani – Comedian & Writer

Duration: 49 minutes

Release Date: August 15, 2024

Season: 3, Episode 2

All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis Gunn

Please buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online

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