Jodie Comer has said she feels “incredibly honoured” to receive a prize celebrating her achievements in theatre, particularly her role in the one-woman play Prima Facie and her commitment to touring the hit show.
The actress, 33, carved a name for herself starring in TV shows such as My Mad Fat Diary and Doctor Foster, but is best known for her award-winning role in thriller series Killing Eve.
Stage career and award recognition
Comer, who is from Liverpool, has also had a successful stage career, having made her West End debut in 2022 starring as criminal defence barrister Tessa Ensler in Suzie Miller’s acclaimed production.
Comer also made her Broadway debut starring in the powerful legal drama as Ensler, who defends men accused of sexual assault for a living but after experiencing it herself must confront the failings of the justice system from the other side.
The actress won an Olivier and Tony Award for her role in the show, in which she has continued to star for its recent tour of the UK and Ireland.
Inaugural prize and tour impact
The actress will be acknowledged with the inaugural outstanding achievement prize at the 2026 UK Theatre Awards for her commitment to the production and her “extraordinary performance” in the starring role.
The organisation said that Prima Facie has reached more than 1.2 million people worldwide on stage and through its National Theatre Live broadcasts, praising Comer for helping increase the accessibility of live theatre and for her efforts in bringing the acclaimed show to audiences beyond London.
Comer said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive the inaugural outstanding achievement in British Theatre Award. Prima Facie has been such a huge part of my life, and taking the production on tour has been one of the most special experiences of my career.
“There’s something so unique about sharing live theatre with audiences in different communities and seeing the impact the story can have in each venue.
“I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported the production and made it possible for us to take it across the UK and Ireland, especially James Bierman at Empire Productions for having the passion and ingenuity to make the idea a reality.
“To have our journey recognised in this way is a real privilege, and I’m hugely thankful.”
Comer will be presented with the prize at the UK Theatre Awards on October 12, in a ceremony hosted by drag performer La Voix.
