Sharon Wanjohi: Rising Star in British Comedy and Literature
The name Sharon Wanjohi is becoming increasingly familiar in both academic and creative circles in the United Kingdom. From her foundation in English Literature at the prestigious University of Southampton to her remarkable rise as a comedian and television writer, she embodies the new wave of British talent that seamlessly blends intellect, humour, and cultural awareness. Her journey demonstrates the power of determination, creativity, and resilience in a competitive industry.
Early Life and Origin
Sharon Wanjohi was born in the late 1990s and, as of 2025, she is 27 years old. Growing up on the border of Essex and London, she developed a fascination with humour and storytelling at an early age. The cultural diversity of her background as a British–Kenyan provided her with a unique lens through which to view the world. Her early influences included watching family-friendly comedy shows with her parents, sparking a passion that would later fuel her career in stand-up and writing.
Academic Foundation
Education at the University of Southampton
Sharon Wanjohi pursued her academic journey at the University of Southampton, where she studied English Language and Literature between 2017 and 2020. During her time as an undergraduate, she gained not only literary knowledge but also a strong grounding in critical thinking, analysis, and storytelling. These skills have played a vital role in shaping her distinct comedic style, which is often rich in references, satire, and clever wordplay.
Nightingale Hospital Experience
Alongside her academic pursuits, Sharon also spent time at Nightingale Hospital in London, where she worked as a student from 2017 onwards. This experience added a layer of depth to her understanding of people, resilience, and human behaviour. The hospital environment, with its mix of challenges and life lessons, sharpened her observational skills and provided valuable insights that would later influence her writing and performances.
Career as a Comedian
Stand-Up Beginnings
Sharon Wanjohi transitioned from student life into the world of performance with confidence and flair. Her comedic voice is distinctive, blending absurdist humour, cultural commentary, and relatable anecdotes. She gained recognition by becoming a finalist in the Chortle Student Comedy Awards and the Funny Women Stage Awards in 2021, proving her ability to stand out amongst new talent.
Comedy Style
Her routines often focus on Gen-Z struggles, including housing crises, societal pressures, and even nostalgic references to cartoons. Sharon is unafraid of tackling unconventional topics—she once described the film Ratatouille as a metaphor for race relations—demonstrating her bold, satirical approach. Her energy on stage and ability to weave academic insight into humorous performances make her an engaging and refreshing voice in British comedy.
Sharon Wanjohi at Edinburgh Fringe
Fringe Debut
A milestone in her career came with her Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut in 2025. Her solo show, Sharon Wanjohi: In the House, was staged at Pleasance Courtyard, one of the festival’s most respected venues.
Themes and Reception
The show was styled as a satirical self-help seminar, presented in the tone of a 1990s talk-show host. It cleverly dissected the absurdities of modern life, especially those faced by young people in Britain today. The Guardian listed her among the top comedy debuts to watch, while The Times praised her originality and strong stage presence. Critics admired her balance of humour and thoughtful commentary, making her debut a resounding success.
Television and Writing Career
Beyond the stage, Sharon Wanjohi has made impressive contributions to television. She has written for popular programmes such as Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Late Night Lycett, and The Jonathan Ross Show. She has also appeared on Comedy Central Live and ITV2’s The Stand Up Sketch Show.
Her comedic talent extends to podcast appearances, including Drunk Women Solving Crime and Off Menu. These experiences showcase her adaptability as both a performer and a writer, further cementing her status as a rising creative force.
Age and Accomplishments
At 27 years old, Sharon Wanjohi has already built an enviable portfolio of achievements. Within just a few years of graduating, she has made a successful solo debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, earned nominations for prestigious newcomer awards, and gained television credits on some of Britain’s most recognisable shows. Her age reflects her early success, suggesting a long and promising career ahead.
Conclusion
Sharon Wanjohi exemplifies the modern British creative spirit: academically trained, culturally aware, and brimming with originality. From her studies at the University of Southampton to her role at Nightingale Hospital, and now her thriving career as a comedian and television writer, she continues to inspire audiences with her wit and insight.
Her performances at Edinburgh Fringe and her recognition across the comedy industry highlight her as one of the most exciting voices of her generation. With her age on her side, a solid educational background, and a growing list of accomplishments, Sharon Wanjohi’s future in comedy and writing looks brighter than ever.
