Esther Manito began her stand-up career in 2016 while on maternity leave from teaching. In her first year, she gained recognition by being heard on the BBC Radio 4 New Comedy Awards and became a finalist in the So You Think You’re Funny Awards. Since then, she has become a regular on ITV’s Stand Up Sketch Show (Series 2-5) and appeared on BBC One’s Live at the Apollo in 2021. Additionally, Esther has featured on shows like Hypothetical (Dave), Comedy Central Live, and ITV’s Celebrity Pointless.
On the radio, Esther has been a familiar voice on BBC Radio 4, contributing to programs such as News Quiz, Mark Watson Questions Everything, and Frank Skinner’s Someone Found This Helpful. She is also a series regular on BBC Scotland’s Breaking The News.
Her writing credits include contributions to Radio 4’s News Quiz, Newsjack on Radio 4 Extra, and the satirical book “Don’t Panic I’m Islamic,” which was recognized as The Sunday Times Best Humour Book of the Year.
Esther has received accolades for her work, winning Best Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival for her solo show #NotAllMen. Her first solo show, Crusade, is available on ITVX. Recently, she completed her first tour with her third hour Hell Hath No Fury, which received rave reviews from various publications, including The Skinny and The Evening Standard, with Radio Times noting, “At times it’s like Victoria Wood has taken the mic.”
Esther has supported Alan Davies, Shappi Khorsandi, Sindhu Vee, Jason Manford, Jo Brand and Al Murray.
“Manito skilfully weaves her own personal story with a wider look at gender issues in society“★★★★Evening Standard
“an astute observer of everyday daftness as well as being able to tackle the bigger issues with wit and guile.”– The List