Hannah Byczkowski: How The Traitors Helped Her Become a Better Comedian

The Unlikely Path to Comedy

Hannah Byczkowski, a comedian who rose to fame after winning The Traitors in 2022, shares her intriguing journey from a career in palliative care to standup comedy. In an interview with The Guardian, she reveals that a midlife crisis led her to leave her job and explore creative pursuits.

From Palliative Care to Punchlines

Byczkowski recounts how she tried writing a book before discovering her true passion for standup comedy. She humorously describes her transition, saying she lost sensitivity for her work in palliative care and needed a change. Her decision to pursue comedy was influenced by her desire to do something creative.

Reflections on The Traitors

Byczkowski discusses her experience on The Traitors, describing it as one of the most traumatic yet enjoyable experiences she's had. She mentions that fans often ask about her friendship with fellow contestant Wilf, which remains strong. Interestingly, she notes that being on the show didn't directly help her gain better gigs, but it did contribute to her growth as a comedian.

The Impact on Her Comedy Career

Byczkowski shares that her appearance on The Traitors didn't immediately boost her comedy career. In fact, some bookers and comedians were skeptical, thinking she was trying to leverage her TV fame for comedy gigs. However, she believes that the experience helped her develop her comedic skills.

Embracing Imperfections and Laughter

Byczkowski recalls a particularly bad gig in Skegness where she performed for 20 people who stared at her without laughing. Despite the initial failure, she now finds humor in the experience. She also shares her preshow ritual of having a cigarette to calm her nerves and her admiration for comedians like Alan Carr and Daisy May Cooper.

Upcoming Performances

• Hannah Byczkowski: Killer at Gilded Balloon Teviot, Edinburgh, 5-30 August