Jack Shep, the breakout comic from Saturday Night Live UK, has become an overnight sensation thanks to his spot-on impersonation of Princess Diana. The 26-year-old actor, who joined the Sky sketch show as a relative unknown, now finds himself recognized in the streets—often with shouts of 'Diana!' from passing groups of lads. 'It was fun—and hot,' Shep recalls with a laugh.
From TikTok to SNL UK
Shep began his comedy career on TikTok, where his observational sketches about Gen Z life earned him nearly 89,000 followers and 7.5 million likes. Before that, he worked as a football coach for children under five, a job he held for five years. 'I really loved it and I miss it,' he says. Now, thanks to SNL UK, comedy is his full-time focus.
The Diana Impression That Took Over
Shep's Princess Diana impression, complete with blonde bouffant and coy head tilt, became the show's first viral meme. Sky even used the image on promotional posters across London Tube stations. 'I had mentioned that I could do Princess Diana but in a silly, non-committal way,' Shep explains. 'My theory is that if she were alive, she would 100 per cent be doing the reality TV circuit—guest judging on Drag Race, appearing on Bake Off, or hosting a segment of Comic Relief.'
Pressure and Reception
Despite the show's success, Shep admits the cast felt immense pressure before the first episode. 'We were so nervous about how the show would be received because we wanted people to like it and obviously people were very sceptical,' he says. The warm reception from critics and audiences alike has been a relief. 'Our best-case scenario was just that people enjoyed it.'
Starmer Parody and Trump's Attention
One of the show's early sketches—a parody of Keir Starmer—caught the attention of Donald Trump, who shared it on Truth Social. Shep, who played a Gen Z adviser in the skit, found the experience surreal. 'Obviously, I'm really not a fan of him but I suppose it says a lot about our current administration that my gay ass and Donald damn Trump both think Keir Starmer is a wet fish,' he says. 'It still doesn't really feel like it's real.'
Life After SNL UK
Shep is already looking ahead, with a role in Channel 4 sitcom Break Clause later this year. He remains grounded, however, aware of the industry's unpredictability. 'You can have an amazing five years and then never work again,' he notes. For now, he's enjoying the ride, even if it means putting his phone away on Sundays to avoid the chaos of viral fame.
The Saturday Night Live UK finale airs on Saturday 16 May at 10pm on Sky and Now TV, with Ncuti Gatwa hosting. Whether Shep will resurrect his Diana impression remains to be seen. 'We'll have to have a reason,' he says coyly. 'I'll see if one comes up.'
