Katie Hopkins, a 49-year-old media personality and comedian, is poised to return to Blackburn’s Empire Theatre on May 15 as part of her latest tour, “Bats**t Bonkers Britain.” Known for her polarizing views and controversial statements, Hopkins has become a figure synonymous with far-right political activism, often drawing criticism for her perceived Islamophobia and racist rhetoric. Her performances have sparked significant debate, and her previous shows at the Empire Theatre have garnered attention for both their popularity and the contentious nature of her content.
Hopkins has a history with the Empire Theatre, having performed there twice before, with her last show, “Live, Laugh, Love,” selling out in 2023. The theatre has been a platform for various forms of entertainment, and the spokesperson for the venue acknowledged the mixed reactions to Hopkins’ presence. “Katie Hopkins has brought her comedy show to the theatre twice before, and it has always been well received,” they stated. However, they also emphasized the theatre’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of providing a space for diverse viewpoints, asserting, “The Empire Theatre would not tolerate any show which promoted extreme views or a specific political agenda.”
This statement reflects the balancing act that venues like the Empire Theatre must perform, as they navigate the complexities of hosting artists whose views may not align with the values of all patrons. The spokesperson noted, “As a venue offering a wide range of entertainment throughout the year, this one-woman comedy show is just part of our diverse offering,” highlighting the theatre’s intention to provide a platform for various forms of expression while allowing audiences to make their own decisions about attendance.
Hopkins is no stranger to controversy, having built a career on her outspoken nature and willingness to tackle sensitive topics. In 2021, she was deported from Australia after she publicly boasted on social media about her plans to breach the country’s quarantine rules during the COVID-19 pandemic. This incident not only underscored her contentious relationship with public health measures but also drew international attention to her provocative style. The following year, she faced a ban from Twitter, now known as X, for violating the platform’s rules against hate speech and abusive behavior. This ban was a culmination of her history of inflammatory remarks and contentious social media presence.
One of the most notorious examples of her controversial statements occurred in 2017, when she tweeted in the aftermath of the Manchester Arena terrorist attack. In a moment of heightened emotion following the tragedy, she infamously called for a “final solution,” a phrase laden with historical significance and deeply offensive connotations. Her tweet, which read, “22 dead – number rising. Schofield. Don’t you even dare. Do not be a part of the problem. We need a final solution #Manchester,” prompted widespread condemnation and backlash from various quarters, including the media and public figures. This incident exemplified the type of provocative rhetoric that has characterized Hopkins’ career and contributed to her notoriety.
As she prepares for her upcoming show, Hopkins has taken the opportunity to share her perspective on the media landscape and the narratives that shape public discourse. In her own words, she stated, “Having spent time in the media, I know how these idiots operate and I am calling them out on their nonsense.” This statement reflects her belief that media narratives often mislead the public, pushing agendas that do not align with the realities that people observe in their daily lives. “People are told to believe stuff that they can see with their own eyes is simply not true. That is the definition of madness,” she added, positioning herself as a truth-teller amidst what she perceives as a sea of misinformation.
Hopkins has also reflected on the creative process behind her latest tour, revealing her belief that much of the material for “Batst Bonkers” emerges organically from the current socio-political climate. “I’d love to take credit for Batst Bonkers, but honestly, most days, it writes itself,” she remarked, indicating that her comedy is often a reaction to the absurdities she observes in society. This sentiment captures the essence of her comedic style, which blends satire with social commentary, often pushing the boundaries of acceptable discourse.
Throughout her nearly two-decade career in the public eye, Hopkins has remained steadfast in her beliefs, positioning herself as a voice for those who feel marginalized or unheard in contemporary society. “I am beyond thrilled to have a platform on which to shine a light about the things that matter to regular people in the UK. I have no paymaster and no one to please,” she stated, emphasizing her independence and commitment to speaking her mind without external pressures. This declaration resonates with her supporters, who appreciate her willingness to challenge prevailing narratives and engage with contentious topics.
In her closing remarks about the tour, Hopkins expressed a desire to foster a sense of community among her audience members. “I’m here telling it like it is because I really want people to know they are not alone. Being a part of this tour is not about me; it’s about knowing you belong. And together we will laugh hard at the insanity that surrounds us.” This statement encapsulates the essence of her appeal, as she seeks to create a space where like-minded individuals can come together, share in their frustrations, and find solace in the knowledge that they are not alone in their beliefs.
As Katie Hopkins prepares to take the stage at the Empire Theatre, her performance promises to be another chapter in her controversial career. Love her or loathe her, Hopkins has become a figure of significant public interest, and her show is likely to provoke thought, laughter, and perhaps further debate among audiences. Whether one agrees with her views or not, her presence in the public sphere serves as a reminder of the importance of free speech, the value of diverse perspectives, and the ongoing need for critical thinking in an increasingly complex world.