Aotearoa, New Zealand’s most distinctive and internationally recognised comedian, Eli Matthewson is also a celebrated writer and television personality. Raised in Christchurch and now working between Auckland and London, Eli’s comedy combines sharp observational humour with personal storytelling and incisive commentary on contemporary culture and queer life.

As a stand-up, Eli is a multi-award-winning performer. He was twice nominated for the prestigious Billy T Award and won the Fred Award — the top prize at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival — for his critically acclaimed show Daddy Short-Legs. He has performed internationally, including sell-out runs and five-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Chortle said he would “mop the floor with most of the recent Live At The Apollo box tickers and panel show space blockers,” while Fresh Fringe called his work “an absolute breath of fresh air.”

Eli also co-hosts the popular podcast The Male Gayz and continues to build a reputation as a bold, engaging voice with strong international appeal.