Mark Steel is a British comedian, writer, broadcaster, and columnist known for his sharp political humour and wide-ranging work across radio, television, and live performance. His biography covers a career spanning over four decades, alongside personal milestones that have drawn public curiosity.
Readers often want a clear, consolidated overview of his age, family, books, and current touring activity. This article brings together the key facts from reliable sources, including his early life, relationship history, published works, and upcoming shows.
How old is Mark Steel?
Born 4 July 1960, English comedian, writer, broadcaster
Former partner Shappi Khorsandi, two children
Author of several humorous/political books
2026 Edinburgh show ‘What The F*** Is Going On?’
- Mark Steel was born in 1960 and is 64 years old as of 2025.
- He was in a long-term relationship with comedian Shappi Khorsandi; they have a son.
- He also has a daughter from a previous relationship.
- His most notable work includes BBC Radio 4’s ‘Mark Steel’s in Town’ and several books.
- He tours regularly, with upcoming shows in 2026 including the Edinburgh Fringe.
- He recovered from throat cancer diagnosed in 2023.
- His comedy style is rooted in political and social commentary.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Mark Steel |
| Born | 4 July 1960 (age 64), Kent, England |
| Occupation | Comedian, writer, broadcaster, columnist |
| Notable works | Mark Steel’s in Town (BBC Radio 4), ‘Reasons to be Cheerful’ (book) |
| Children | A daughter and a son (with Shappi Khorsandi) |
| Relationship | Former partner: Shappi Khorsandi (split) |
Who is Mark Steel’s wife/partner and does he have children?
Information about Mark Steel’s current marital status is limited. There is no public record of a current marriage or spouse. He was in a long-term relationship with fellow comedian Shappi Khorsandi, and they have a son together.
Mark Steel’s partner and children
Mark Steel and Shappi Khorsandi were partners for several years. Their son was born in 2017. Steel also has a daughter from a previous relationship. The names of his children are not widely published in media sources. The couple have since separated, with reports indicating the split was amicable.
Mark Steel has two children: a daughter from an earlier relationship and a son with comedian Shappi Khorsandi. No details about a current spouse or wedding are publicly available.
What happened between Mark Steel and Shappi Khorsandi?
Details of the split
The relationship between Mark Steel and Shappi Khorsandi, both established stand-up comedians, ended in the early 2020s. While the exact date of their separation has not been made public, outlets have described the split as mutual. Both have continued their individual careers in comedy and writing since the breakup.
Khorsandi, born in Iran and raised in London, is known for her own television and stand-up work. The couple’s decision to part ways attracted media attention due to their combined public profiles, but neither has commented extensively on the reasons behind the separation.
What books has Mark Steel written?
List of published books
Mark Steel has authored several books blending humour, political commentary, and personal observation. His published works include:
- Reasons to be Cheerful (2012)
- What’s Going On (2015)
- The Mark Steel Solution (1996)
- Who Do I Think I Am (adapted for Audible, 2021)
He was also reported to be writing a book about his experience with throat cancer, which some sources indicated might be released in 2025. That date may reflect earlier planning, so readers should check for updates.
Steel’s books typically combine memoir, left-leaning political analysis, and the observational humour that defines his stage and radio work. ‘Reasons to be Cheerful’ is one of his best-known titles.
Is Mark Steel touring or performing live?
Upcoming tour dates and venues
Mark Steel continues to perform regularly. His official website, marksteelinfo.com, lists current tour dates and ticket information. A major upcoming event is his 2026 Edinburgh Fringe show titled What The F*** Is Going On?
In 2022, he performed a show in French titled En Ville et en Français in both Paris and London. He also toured the UK in support of his show The Leopard in My House. Additionally, he hosts the podcast What the F*** is Going On, which has approached 100 episodes.
Timeline of Mark Steel’s life and career
- : Born in Kent, England.
- : Starts stand-up comedy career after moving from music.
- : Launches BBC Radio 4 series Mark Steel’s in Town.
- : Publishes Reasons to be Cheerful.
- : Relationship with Shappi Khorsandi begins (approximate).
- : Birth of son with Khorsandi.
- : Split from Khorsandi (exact date not public).
- : Diagnosed with throat cancer; successfully treated.
- : Edinburgh Fringe show What The F*** Is Going On? scheduled.
What information about Mark Steel is confirmed and what remains unclear?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Born 4 July 1960 | Current marital status (no public information on a spouse) |
| Has a son with Shappi Khorsandi | Exact date of split with Khorsandi |
| Has a daughter from a previous relationship | Names of children (not widely published) |
| Split with Shappi Khorsandi (mutual agreement reported) | Net worth |
What is the broader context of Mark Steel’s career?
Mark Steel’s comedy is rooted in political satire and observational humour, often reflecting left-wing and socialist viewpoints. He has maintained a consistent presence on BBC radio and television, including appearances on Have I Got News for You and The News Quiz.
His impact on British stand-up and radio is notable, with Mark Steel’s in Town winning awards. Recent developments include his recovery from throat cancer, continued touring, podcasting, and changes in his personal life that have been reported by the press.
What are the key sources for information about Mark Steel?
Biographical data and career milestones are available from several authoritative sources. His Wikipedia entry provides a comprehensive overview. The BBC Radio 4 programme page for Mark Steel’s in Town includes episode archives and show descriptions. His official site, marksteelinfo.com, carries tour dates and book information.
“Mark Steel is an English author, broadcaster, stand-up comedian and newspaper columnist.” – Wikipedia
“The new book is out now! Click here to purchase.” – marksteelinfo.com
Summary: what users should know about Mark Steel today
Mark Steel is a 64-year-old British comedian, writer, and broadcaster whose career spans stand-up, BBC radio, television, and multiple books. He is the former partner of Shappi Khorsandi and has two children. He continues to tour and create content, including a podcast and a scheduled Edinburgh Fringe show for 2026. For the most up-to-date tour schedule and news, check marksteelinfo.com or follow @mrmarksteel on X.
Frequently asked questions about Mark Steel
What is Mark Steel’s net worth?
Not publicly disclosed.
Is Mark Steel married?
There is no public record of a current marriage.
How tall is Mark Steel?
Not publicly known.
Does Mark Steel have a podcast?
Yes, he hosts the podcast What the F*** is Going On; see his X profile for details.
What political views does Mark Steel hold?
He is known for left-wing and socialist commentary in his comedy and writing.
When did Mark Steel and Shappi Khorsandi split?
The exact date has not been made public, but reports place the split in the early 2020s.
Does Mark Steel have any upcoming shows?
Yes. He is scheduled to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2026 with a show titled What The F*** Is Going On?
What is Mark Steel’s most famous show?
His best-known work is the BBC Radio 4 series Mark Steel’s in Town.
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Isabelle Reed is TV & Streaming Editor at CultureObserver.uk, covering television, streaming platforms, broadcast schedules and platform news.