Controversial comic Katie Hopkins responds to criticism ahead of Gaiety Theatre gig

"I'm not going around the Island clubbing people over the head to come to my shows"

Controversial comic Katie Hopkins has hit back at criticism of her appearance at the Gaiety Theatre tonight (23 July).

The right-wing media personality often faces backlash and boycotts due to her views on topics including immigration and race.

Ahead of her sold-out show in Douglas the Manx Bard, Bradley Chambers, described her booking as 'inappropriate'.

You can find out more HERE.

But Ms Hopkins told Manx Radio she's not forcing anyone to come and watch:

Ms Hopkins has previously performed twice on the Island at the Manx Legion in Douglas but this will be her first performance at the taxpayer-funded theatre.

She says plans are already in place to perform at the larger Villa Marina Royal Hall within the 'next 12-18 months':

In a statement the Department of Education, Sport and Culture said: "The Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre operate as public venues. 

"The associated hire arrangements permit individuals, promoters and organisations to book the facilities, subject to suitable availability and provided that the venue’s terms and conditions, including any applicable legal obligations and health and safety requirements, can be met to the satisfaction of the department.

"The department considered a request to hire the Gaiety Theatre for a stand-up comedy performance by Katie Hopkins to take place in July 2026. 

"Decisions relating to venue bookings are made in accordance with the relevant booking procedures and with due regard to legal, operational and health and safety considerations.

"The decision to proceed with the booking was made neither by the Isle of Man Arts Council nor directly by the VillaGaiety team.

"The department does not endorse, promote or otherwise adopt the views or opinions of any individual, promoter, performer, organisation or group hiring its venues. 

"The use of a department-operated venue should not be construed as indicating support for, or agreement with, the views expressed by those associated with an event. 

"As public venues the Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre may host a range of events and perspectives, and applications for hire must be considered fairly, consistently and in accordance with the relevant booking procedures, legal and operational requirements."