Everything You Need to Know as Gyles Brandreth Extends His Can't Stop Talking Tour - Performing in York on 1 February

Ever met someone who just… never stops talking? That person in the family who can spin a yarn about anything, or the mate who fills every silence with a story. Well, there's a man who has made an entire career out of it, and he's bringing his hilarious new show to Yorkshire. Gyles Brandreth, the man of many jumpers and even more words, is heading out on a tour that gets to the bottom of his lifelong gift of the gab. The celebrated broadcaster is extending his tour, “Can’t Stop Talking!!!”, and it includes a much-anticipated stop in York this coming February. This one-man show isn't just a collection of anecdotes; it's a funny, sharp-witted investigation into why he simply can't stop talking.

So, what's this one-man show all about?

The name of the tour really says it all. “Can’t Stop Talking!!!” is an exploration of Gyles Brandreth’s own verbal overflow. Apparently, he's been burbling and babbling since he was a baby, and now he’s decided to figure out why on stage, in front of a live audience. The show promises a hilarious deep dive into his own condition, which he cheerfully admits is ‘logorrhea’. That’s the proper, medical-sounding term for someone who talks excessively. Think of it as verbal diarrhoea, but much, much more entertaining. And Gyles isn't just any chatterbox; he's a professional, an award-winning raconteur who has turned talking into an art form. He's a self-confessed 'verbivore'—someone who devours words. This isn't just a gimmick for the show; it’s a genuine part of his life. He actually holds the world record for the longest-ever after-dinner speech, clocking in at a staggering twelve and a half hours. Just imagine the stamina required for that feat of non-stop talking! This tour, which kicked off after a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival, is all about celebrating that unique trait.

A chap of many, many talents

It’s easy to think of Gyles Brandreth as that witty fellow from the telly, and he is certainly a recognisable star. Viewers will know him as a regular on ITV's This Morning, often sporting one of his signature colourful jumpers, and as a contributor on BBC One's The One Show. His quick wit is a staple on panel shows like QI, Have I Got News For You, and Would I Lie To You?. He’s also the most frequent resident of Dictionary Corner on Countdown and a familiar voice on Radio 4’s Just A Minute. But his career is much more varied than just being a broadcaster. He's been an actor on the stage, appearing in productions of Hamlet and The Importance of Being Earnest. He's also a former Oxford Scholar and was once the MP for the City of Chester, even serving as a Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government. It's quite the CV. This mix of high-level politics, serious acting, and light-hearted television entertainment is what makes him such a fascinating storyteller. He's seen it all, and he's not afraid of talking about it.

More than just a telly star and raconteur

Beyond the stage and screen, Gyles is a seriously accomplished author and biographer. He has penned numerous books, including a series of seven Victorian murder mysteries where the famous writer Oscar Wilde is the detective. His talent as a wordsmith extends to non-fiction too. As a respected royal biographer, his biography of Queen Elizabeth II was a Sunday Times best-seller. This deep knowledge and insight make him more than just a comedian; he's a historian and a chronicler of our times. He's also turned the pen on himself, with his recent autobiography, Odd Boy Out, also hitting the best-seller lists. Whether he is writing a biography of a monarch or sharing his own life story, his love of language shines through. It’s no surprise that he’s also a successful podcaster, another medium perfect for someone who excels at talking. This award-winning performer has a knack for connecting with an audience, whether it's through a book, a podcast, or a live show. His previous stage shows have consistently sold out and won audience awards, a testament to his skill as a performer and raconteur.

Catch the talking tour in York and beyond

For anyone in Yorkshire, the key date for the diary is the 1st of February 2026, when Gyles Brandreth brings his "Can't Stop Talking!!!" show to the Grand Opera House in York. It's a chance to see the master of monologue, the king of conversation, live on stage. But for those elsewhere in the country, the tour is extensive. He is taking his one-man show all over the UK throughout the spring. The full tour schedule is a busy one, showing just how in-demand this particular star is.

Here are the dates for the extended tour:

• 01 February 2026 – York, Grand Opera

• 15 February 2026 – Portsmouth, New Theatre

• 15 March 2026 – Kingston, Roses Theatre

• 12 April 2026 – Bournemouth, Pavilion

• 19 April 2026 – Leicester, Curve Theatre

• 26 April 2026 – Newbury, Corn Exchange

• 03 May 2026 – London, Leicester Square Theatre

• 10 May 2026 – Leamington Spa, Royal Spa Centre

• 17 May 2026 – Salford, The Lowry

• 24 May 2026 – Worthing, Pavilion

• 31 May 2026 – Watford, Palace Theatre

After seeing the show, audiences might even have an answer to the big question: what makes Gyles Brandreth keep on talking? Or maybe, just maybe, they'll leave hoping he never stops. Seeing this ex-MP and current quiz show favourite from programmes like Pointless will be a highlight of the theatrical year.