Christopher David Addison, born on November 5, 1971, in Cardiff, Wales, is a British comedian, writer, actor, and director known for his cerebral, lecture-style stand-up comedy. He gained popularity as a regular panellist on the BBC comedy quiz show Mock the Week and transitioned many of his stage routines into successful BBC Radio 4 programs. Addison’s comedic style often blends intellect with satire, particularly focusing on politics and social observation, which became a hallmark of his radio and television work.

His most notable acting role is as the ambitious government aide Ollie Reeder in the critically acclaimed BBC Two political satire The Thick of It, a role he reprised in the 2009 spin-off film In the Loop. He also appeared in Doctor Who and co-created and starred in the sitcom Lab Rats. Expanding his career behind the camera, Addison co-created the FX series Breeders in 2020, starring Martin Freeman, which explores the highs and lows of modern parenting. His versatility has allowed him to transition fluidly between stand-up, acting, directing, and writing, making him a distinctive figure in British comedy.

Addison grew up in Worsley, Salford, after moving from Wales at the age of four. Educated at Manchester Grammar School, he later attended the University of Birmingham to study English Literature with aspirations of becoming a theatre director. When that career path didn’t materialize, he found his niche in comedy, initially as a performer and later as a multi-talented creator across stage, screen, and radio. He describes himself as a middle-class Mancunian and has retained strong ties to both the cultural and comedic roots of the region.