In a parallel universe where laughter is outlawed and joy is a black-market commodity, a lone figure stands against the tyranny of seriousness. This isn’t the plot of a dystopian novel, but the whimsical imagination of Kenny Sebastian, the maverick comedian who would hide in alleys, selling illicit giggles to those brave enough to defy the law. His story is not just about laughter; it’s a narrative of resilience, self-discovery and the pursuit of genuine human connection. And as he continues to weave his comedic magic, one thing is clear: in a world where laughter might one day be illegal, Kenny will always be there, hiding in the alleys, ready to make us laugh, no matter the cost. His journey from a shy, introspective artist to a beloved comedian is a testament to the transformative power of humour and the enduring spirit of those who dare to make the world a happier place, one joke at a time.
Well, we have the gagster onboard today for our special Celeb Talk segment and as we begin, “I’d charge a hefty fee,” he chuckles, “as long as you’re not a cop, of course.”
Kenny’s journey into the realm of comedy is not just about making people laugh; it’s a profound exploration of human connection. “We all crave to find out that we are not that different from the rest,” he muses. “But at the same time, we want to feel a little bit special.” This philosophy has shaped his approach to humour, transforming his stand-up routines from light-hearted anecdotes into deep, introspective performances. Reflecting on his evolution, he notes, “In my 20s, any connection with the audience was satisfying. Now, a deeper connection seems like the only connection worth having.”
If Kenny were to pen his life story, he would title it Why the Hell Not?—an apt reflection of his fearless approach to life and comedy. This attitude extends to his hypothetical stand-up routine for none other than Sir Isaac Newton. “I’d love to see Newton admit, ‘I don’t understand calculus either!’” he imagines, picturing the legendary scientist’s faux pas. The idea of making a historical genius like Newton laugh underscores Kenny’s belief in the universality of humour—a tool to bridge even the widest gaps.
Despite his confident stage presence, Kenny reveals a lesser-known side: off-stage, he is surprisingly calm and shy. This juxtaposition between his public persona and private self adds another layer to his comedy, often touching on personal anxieties and vulnerabilities. “Making jokes about a subject doesn’t make us worse than the subject,” he explains, highlighting the therapeutic nature of his work. This candid admission makes his comedy more relatable, as he often draws on his own life experiences and struggles, weaving them into his performances.
Even amidst the cheers and laughter, he admits that dealing with trolls and negative comments is still challenging. “It hurts a lot, especially because my goal is to make people happy. When those same people say mean things, it’s tragic,” he confesses. This vulnerability reveals the dual nature of being in the public eye, where the drive to entertain is sometimes met with harsh criticism.
Beyond comedy, he has a passion for painting, sketching and motorbikes. With a degree in painting and a love for his Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Triumph Bonneville 900, he leads a life filled with diverse interests. His creative pursuits extend beyond the stage, as he finds solace and expression in the visual arts. He’s also obsessed with animals, especially dogs and enjoys cooking, working out, gaming and travelling with his wife. These hobbies paint a picture of a well-rounded individual who finds joy and inspiration in various aspects of life.
In a rapid-fire round, he reveals a few fun facts: he’s a night owl, loves chicken curry and rice, prefers tea over coffee and can’t resist a good dumb joke. His go-to karaoke song? Any John Mayer hit. But beyond these playful tidbits, Kenny hopes his comedy leaves a lasting impact. “Expecting entertainers to inspire social change is infantilising the capabilities of the general public,” he says. “Everyday individuals are the ones who create social change. My impact, hopefully, leaves people feeling like life is slightly more hopeful.”
For aspiring comedians, his advice is simple yet profound: “Always do stand-up comedy for the right reasons—trying to make people laugh and being the funniest person you can be. Any other reason won’t help you persevere in this career for decades.” His creative process is a blend of respect for every idea and a keen observation of the world around him. “I never let my inner voice die,” he shares. “If my brain gives me an idea, I treat it with the utmost respect.” This approach speaks to his dedication and passion for his craft, where every thought is a potential spark for the next great joke.
As for what’s next, he promises “creative, silly and uplifting jokes,” with a hint of music in his upcoming special. If his routines had superpowers, they would instill a deep appreciation for people, nature and animals. He reflects on the struggles of his early career—financial instability, doubt, negativity from peers, and sleepless nights—but remains proud of the person he has become. This journey of perseverance and growth underscores his belief in the power of comedy to connect, heal, and inspire.
