Comedy Gold for a Golden Cause

A genuine comedy superstar came to town last weekend, and quietly left behind a donation that will help care for some of the island’s most vulnerable people.

Much-loved Bolton comedian Peter Kay donated his profits from two sold-out shows at the Villa Marina to Manx charities, with the opening night supporting Cruse Bereavement Care Isle of Man and the other in aid of Hospice Isle of Man.

And Hospice has now told Gef about the difference that support will make.

Fiona Hatton, Chief Executive Officer of Hospice, said: ‘We are incredibly grateful to Peter Kay for donating the profits from one of his shows to Hospice Isle of Man.

‘His generosity will make a real difference to patients and families across our island.

‘In 2026, it will cost £7.5 million to run Hospice and provide our services free of charge to those who need us most. His support helps us care for our community at the most difficult of times.’

For a performer of Kay’s stature to donate an entire evening’s profits, without fanfare, speaks volumes.

The two shows, held on Friday and Saturday, marked his first ever performances on the Isle of Man.

After stepping away from live touring for several years, including cancelling a major arena tour in 2017 citing ‘unforeseen family circumstances’, and returning to the stage in 2022 following well-documented health issues, his comeback has been long awaited by fans.

The Villa crowds were treated to a night of big laughs, with Kay clearly enjoying himself, even joking that it had done nothing but rain since he arrived (shock).

When asked whether he would return, he didn’t rule it out, suggesting summer might be a better bet.

Two nights. Two remarkable charities. And one gesture that will make a lasting difference.

You can find out more about the work Cruse Bereavement Isle of Man and Hospice Isle of Man do by the following links:

Cruse Bereavement: www.cruse.org.im

Hospice: www.hospice.org.im