Fatiha El-Ghorri's Journey from Divorce to Comedy Stardom
After her second divorce, Fatiha El-Ghorri was searching online for a local walking group when a pop-up ad suggested she try stand-up comedy. A decade later, she has carved out a successful career, with her unique perspective resonating with diverse audiences.
Memorable Gigs and Heckler Tales
One of her most cherished performances was at the Angel Comedy club in London, where 12 women wearing hijabs attended to see her. "It was so touching, I ended up crying," she recalls, noting that seeing someone who looked like them on the bill encouraged their visit.
Her best heckle story comes from the BBC New Comedy Awards 2025 final. Hosted by Amy Gledhill, El-Ghorri was head judge when a man shouted, "Show us your 9-5's." Initially mortified, thinking he wanted them to flash him, they later realized he was referring to her Air Max 95 trainers.
Introducing 'Cockney Stacking Doll' and Family-Friendly Shows
Her debut show, Cockney Stacking Doll, explores the many layers of her identity, akin to a Russian stacking doll. "This show is an introduction to me and my layers," she explains.
Known for her swearing, El-Ghorri is offering two family-friendly matinee performances to make her comedy accessible to all. "Proper clean fun you can watch with your mum and dad," she says, aiming to cater to audiences who prefer less explicit content.
Comedy Heroes and Personal Inspirations
While she doesn't have a specific comedy hero due to her insider knowledge of the industry, she fondly remembers watching French and Saunders, Desmond's, and The Real McCoy growing up. She also admires American stand-up Neal Brennan.
Her non-comedy hero is her maternal grandmother, a strong woman who worked tirelessly with her grandfather to support their family. "They had such a good partnership," she notes, highlighting their dedication.
Challenges and Lessons from the Stage
Recalling a particularly bad gig, El-Ghorri describes a group of men who heckled relentlessly. "I ended up losing my temper and shouting at them," she admits, stepping out of her comedy persona. Though she cried afterward and wasn't rebooked, she now looks back with embarrassment.
Her bugbear in comedy is comedians who overrun their allocated time by five to ten minutes, disrupting the schedule for others.
Preshow Rituals and Valuable Advice
Before taking the stage, she avoids meals to prevent burping and instead drinks plenty of water. She also says a little prayer when called on stage.
The best advice she's received comes from her faith: "What is yours will never miss you and what isn't yours will never reach you." From stand-up, she learned that the audience is the client, and performers must focus on ensuring they have a good time.
Upcoming Projects: Novel and Personal Goals
Her debut children's novel, The Perks of My Hijab, set for release next year, follows a young girl embracing her identity with humor. "It's funny and cool so give it a read," she encourages.
Looking ahead, El-Ghorri jokes about finding a husband, asking, "Are you free on Friday night bruv?" Her show, Cockney Stacking Doll, tours the UK from 25 April.
