Funny Business, supported by Universal Studio Group, makes its debut at this year’s Edinburgh TV Festival. A brand-new strand celebrating the business of comedy and the people shaping its future.

Bringing together some of the biggest names in television comedy, Funny Business is where creatives, commissioners, producers and industry leaders come together to exchange ideas, discover emerging talent and explore what’s next for comedy—with plenty of laughs along the way.

Universal Studio Group’s support of Funny Business builds on its long-standing relationship with the Festival, where it is a major partner. It also follows the creation of the Comedy Showcase three years ago, a first-of-its-kind partnership between The Edinburgh TV Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and USG. The showcase brings Fringe talent to the TV Festival stage, a bridge that creates direct exposure between emerging comedy creators and the television industry.

As a first taste of what’s to come for Funny Business 2026, we are excited to announce LIVE FROM EDINBURGH: THE SNL UK MASTERCLASS.

Creatives, members of the cast and key decision-makers behind the hit comedy sketch series Saturday Night Live UK come to Edinburgh to discuss bringing the legendary American format to British screens. Ahead of the show’s highly anticipated second season this September, discover how each show is built in real time, from a blank page at the start of the week to the fast-paced journey of creating a live show each Saturday night.

Funny Business Friday Day Pass

To celebrate the launch of the strand, we’re offering a limited number of subsidised day passes for comedy industry professionals. For £99 + VAT, you’ll get access to Funny Business on Friday 28 August 2026. Limited availability – apply today.

The laughs keep coming as the Comedy Showcase, in partnership with Universal Studio Group, Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and the TV Foundation, returns to the Festival with another outstanding line-up of comedians showcasing the very best of their 2026 Edinburgh Fringe shows. Hosted by SNL UK writer Bella Hull, this Festival favourite shines a spotlight on comedy’s next breakout stars.

Comedy Showcase Line Up: Hasan Al-Habib, Abi Clarke, Kate Dolan, Marty Gleeson, Dom McGovern & Roger O’Sullivan

Funny Business runs on Friday 28th August and forms part of the full Edinburgh TV Festival programme. Don’t miss out – secure your pass today.