In these interviews, comedians talked openly about everything from the changes on the live circuit and the rise of social media, to creating shows about trauma and their own experiences with misogyny, racism and homophobia. The stories were honest, illuminating, sometimes hilarious and at other times harrowing. As an author Jonathan had to balance and contextualize everything he was told, providing an uncompromising look at comedy that nonetheless included both light and shade.  

Working with so many comics, not to mention talking to agents, academics, producers, promoters, PRs and journalists, has given him a unique insight into creative collaboration with comedy talent.

From tales of the circuit in the early 2000s, through stand-up's re-birth on TV, to the rise of social media and the start of culture wars, right up to where next for the industry post-COVID, the last twenty years of one of our best-loved forms of entertainment are brought to life by someone who was there.

“Essential reading for all comedians and comedy fans.” by Richard Herring

"A superbly researched deep dive into the history of UK live comedy" British Comedy Guide

Reading the Room: The Inside Story of UK Stand-Up in the 21st Century saw Jonathan Grant interview 56 of the leading figures in the comedy industry, including Jen Brister, Ed Byrne, Ivo Graham, Phill Jupitus, John Kearns, Shappi Khorsandi, Nish Kumar, Stevie Martin, Geoff Norcott, John Robins, Suzi Ruffell, Isy Suttie and Bilal Zafar.

A blend of humorous but honest autobiography and critical analysis, it's an essential read for anyone who wants to gain a real understanding of the people and events that have shaped modern stand-up comedy.

The book was published in June 2026 by comedy imprint Go Faster Stripe.

As a comedian himself Jonathan performed for years at numerous clubs, as well as festivals and the Edinburgh Fringe. Later he worked as a manager and promoter, co-founding his own agency to represent the best emerging comedians and producing hundreds of live comedy nights across London and the South East.

Outside of comedy he works as a Creative in the advertising industry, writing campaigns for global brands on TV, radio, in print and online.

This is his full-length book but he has previously written a number of short stories, one of which was nominated for the P.G. Wodehouse award for new comedic writing.