Kill Tony Tour 2026 – What It’s All About

Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe has built a singular live experience with Kill Tony, the high-wire stand-up show and podcast where aspiring comics get 60 seconds on stage before a fast, funny, and often brutally honest interview and roast. What makes it irresistible is the collision of discovery and danger: unknown performers draw their names from “the bucket,” veteran pros sit in as guests, Brian Redban riffs with sound drops, and the crowd fuels the momentum, with the live tour extending that same energy to theaters and arenas. The result is a comedy laboratory where jokes are forged in real time—and where a single minute can change a career.

Hinchcliffe’s own background as a sharp-tongued roast specialist informs the show’s tone: quick, incisive, and playful, yet rooted in real craft. Now based at the Comedy Mothership in Austin, the production blends club intimacy with the reach of a global stream. Episodes rack up millions of views and clips spread fast, helping regulars and “golden ticket” discoveries land paid gigs and touring opportunities. This expanding fanbase is why the 2026 live schedule matters: Kill Tony remains the rare show that’s both a weekly institution and a road attraction, bringing its on-the-spot magic to theaters, clubs, and festivals through select dates while continuing its Austin residency.

Expect a tightly run format—one-minute sets, immediate feedback, guest-panel banter, and musical stings—with an atmosphere that rewards nerve and originality. The audience is part of the show: cheers, groans, and laughter shape the night as much as the hosts do. For fans, it’s a front-row seat to comedy’s creative process; for comics, it’s a proving ground with real stakes. Typical ticket ranges for live dates are about $25–$120 USD before fees, with limited premium seating sometimes higher; all prices on our site are listed in USD so you can compare options at a glance.

Popularity continues to climb through consistent weekly tapings, viral highlights, and touring stand-up from Hinchcliffe and alumni. Whether you’re a diehard podcast listener or new to the scene, this tour offers the most unfiltered look at how jokes are born—and occasionally crash—under bright lights.

Check official ticket availability through our website and lock in the best seats. The countdown has started — book your seats now.

Tour Lineup & Featured Guests

Main hosts

• Tony Hinchcliffe anchors the show with rapid-fire roast jokes and sharp coaching after each one-minute set. A veteran of Comedy Central Roasts and the Netflix special One Shot, he steers the tone between tough-love critiques and genuine mentoring.
• Brian Redban, co-creator and longtime producer (also known for founding the Deathsquad Network and co-founding The Joe Rogan Experience), balances the panel with offbeat tags, live sound drops, and an eye for discovering new talent.

Recurring performers and regulars

• Hans Kim delivers tightly written, deadpan one-liners and is the longest-running Austin-era regular. Offstage, he often opens arena gigs for Joe Rogan and tours nationwide.
• William Montgomery, famed for surreal left turns and character-driven bits, brings a wild-card energy that keeps both panel and audience guessing. He headlines clubs and appears frequently at Austin’s Comedy Mothership.
• Alumni regulars include Jeremiah Watkins (formerly the bandleader who entered as different characters each week; co-host of the Scissor Bros podcast) and drummer Joel Jimenez, whose “Joel Berg” persona became a beloved running gag. The show has also honored the late Michael Lehrer—an inventive Second City alum and former regular—whose spirit of risk-taking still influences the stage.

Guest panelists and surprise appearances

• The rotating panel often features touring headliners who bring distinct flavors of critique and encouragement. Frequent guests have included Joe Rogan, Ron White, Tim Dillon, Mark Normand, Shane Gillis, Whitney Cummings, and Ari Shaffir. In Austin, surprise drop-ins are common, and panel chemistry can swing from surgical joke analysis to playful chaos depending on who’s in the chairs.

Backgrounds and other projects

• Beyond the live show, many regulars and guests host podcasts, release specials, and appear on TV. Hinchcliffe tours extensively and pops up on roast-centric programming. Redban runs multiple live productions in Austin. Watkins releases musical-comedy projects and crowd-work specials, while Montgomery and Kim put out stand-up clips and road-date recaps across social media.

Fun facts and behind-the-scenes

• The show’s core format—randomly pulling names from a bucket, one-minute sets, then an interview/roast—has launched unknowns into club work the very same week. Golden Ticket spots allow standout comics to skip the bucket on future dates. Originating at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, the production moved to Austin in 2021 and now tapes weekly at the Comedy Mothership, where tight timing, quick sound cues, and the panel’s chemistry create a high-wire environment that rewards originality and fearlessness.

Essential Fan Guide for Attending the Tour

Kill Tony is a live comedy show and podcast where aspiring comics get one minute on stage before receiving rapid-fire feedback and roast-level banter from a panel led by Tony Hinchcliffe, often with co-founder Brian Redban and special guests. Expect a high-energy, unscripted night built around spontaneity and sharp crowd work.

Show duration

• Plan for about 2 hours. The format moves quickly from bucket pulls (random comics) to interviews, so the pace stays brisk.

Intermission details

• Most shows do not include a formal intermission. Use the lobby before the show or brief pauses between segments for restrooms or refills.

Venue atmosphere

• It’s lively and candid, with big laughs, honest critiques, and occasional surprises like guest judges. The vibe can be roast-y but celebratory, focused on stand-up craft and quick wit.

Audience participation

• Applause and reactions drive the room. If you’re a comic hoping to perform, arrive early to sign up for the bucket (ID may be required). Heckling or disrupting sets is discouraged—let the panel lead the commentary.

VIP options and perks

• Offerings vary by venue and promoter. Some stops may include early entry, priority seating, or exclusive merchandise. Always confirm VIP details on the event page before purchase.

Merchandise availability

• Look for a merch table with shirts, hats, and show-branded items. Many venues accept credit/debit; some may be cashless—check ahead if you prefer to pay a certain way.

Food and drinks

• Most clubs and theaters offer bar service; some comedy clubs enforce a two-drink minimum. If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid high-traffic bar areas and choose seats farther from service aisles.

Accessibility and seating tips

• ADA seating is typically available but limited; reserve early and contact the venue for accommodations like wheelchair spaces or companion seating. For clear sightlines to the stage and panel table, choose centered seats a few rows back rather than the extreme sides. Arrive early for the best general-admission spots.

Age restrictions

• The show features adult language and themes. Many venues are 18+ or 21+ if alcohol laws apply. Check the event listing for your city to confirm.

Venue policies for phones, recording, and cameras

• Professional cameras are usually not allowed. Audio/video recording is typically prohibited during the show, as the performance is recorded for the podcast. Some venues may require phone pouches; follow staff instructions. Photos before or after the show are often fine.

Tips for getting the best seats

• Buy early; shows can sell out fast. If the venue uses general admission, arrive when doors open. For reserved seating, review the map and target the center orchestra or front mezzanine for balanced view and sound. If you’re hoping to be on camera when crowd shots happen, aisles near the stage can help—but they can also be high-traffic.

Tour schedule and tickets

• Dates change throughout the year, with the Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas serving as a frequent home base. For real-time availability, secure checkout, and any VIP options, check ticket availability through our website before you travel.

Final reminders

Bring a valid ID, especially if you plan to sign up for the bucket or the venue is 18+/21+. Travel light for faster security screening. Be respectful to performers—this format thrives on constructive energy—and get ready for an unpredictable, extremely funny night.

Behind the Scenes & Show Experience

Stage setup and production style

At its Austin home base, the show unfolds on a tight, club-style stage: a host’s desk with microphones, a row of guest chairs, and the famous bucket that holds sign-up slips from aspiring comics. A visible timer and a distinct light cue enforce the one-minute set rule, keeping the pace crisp. Multiple roaming and static cameras capture close-ups of the performer, host, and panel, while a floor crew coordinates transitions so new names can be pulled quickly. The set design favors intimacy—low ceiling, tight sightlines—so laughs rebound fast and every reaction registers.

Music or technical elements

Entrance music and between-segment stingers set a fast, late-night energy, punctuated by sharp soundboard drops that highlight punchlines or awkward pauses. Lighting is deliberate: a warm front wash for comics, a cooler tone for the panel, and a quick dim when the minute ends. The audio mix prioritizes the performer’s mic while keeping panel commentary intelligible. On the road, the team adapts with portable switchers and simplified lighting, but the cues—music hits, timer beeps, and cinematic camera cuts—still land on time.

Audience interaction style

Audience energy drives the show. Fans cheer when a name is called, shout playful tags, and ride the waves of roasting and redemption during the post-set interview. Because anyone could be drawn from the bucket, the room holds a charged mix of nerves and encouragement; regulars, “golden ticket” returnees from other cities, and first-timers all get real-time feedback. The crowd rewards courage and originality, and they relish the high-wire risk of a true open mic with instant critique.

Differences from previous tours

Compared with earlier Los Angeles-era shows that often featured a costumed house band and recurring character bits, the current Austin production is more streamlined and stand-up forward, with tighter timing and more multi-cam coverage. Touring stops typically use a leaner set and fewer recurring segments, leaning on local sign-ups and special guests. The core DNA—one minute of stand-up, then a candid panel—remains constant, but home-base episodes feel more polished and archival-ready.

Crowd reactions and fan expectations

Fans expect fearless roasting, quick-witted panel riffing, surprise drop-ins, and the possibility of watching a newcomer crush—or learn hard lessons. Big pops greet inventive premises, tight tags, and cool under pressure; groans meet hacky material. Expect sell-outs and a two-item minimum at most clubs. Ticket prices commonly range from $25 to $75 USD depending on venue, city, and seat type.

Why the live experience stands out from streaming or clips online

In person, the unpredictability is palpable: you feel the silence before a punchline, the shock of a brutal tag, and the room’s momentum as a comic turns it around. Micro-moments—nervous fidgets, crowd murmurs, spontaneous callbacks—rarely survive in short clips, but live they tell the whole story, making each show a one-time-only high-wire act that rewards being in the room.

Kill Tony Tour 2026 FAQ

How much are tickets for Kill Tony?

Kill Tony tickets typically range from about $30–$75 USD for standard seats in clubs and $50–$150 USD in theaters. Premium or “platinum” locations can be $90–$180 USD. VIP or meet-and-greet bundles, when offered, usually cost $150–$325 USD before fees. Service fees vary by platform ($8–$25 USD). Verified resale prices can fluctuate widely based on city and demand.

How to get tickets to the Kill Tony Tour?

Start at the official show and venue pages, then check major ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster and AXS. Some clubs use Eventbrite or in-house box offices. Join venue newsletters and Tony Hinchcliffe’s and Brian Redban’s social pages for presales. Use verified resale only. Avoid screenshots or wire transfers; stick to platform transfers for safety.

How long is the show?

Most Kill Tony live tapings run 90–120 minutes without a formal intermission, though high-energy nights with star guests can stretch longer. The runtime includes opening banter, the bucket lottery, rapid-fire interviews, and closing notes required for the podcast release on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

How to get the best seats?

Register for presales, log in early, and use the interactive seat map to avoid obstructions. For theaters, center sections in the front third offer the clearest sightlines. VIP or premium seating guarantees position but sells out fast. For general admission clubs, arrive 45–90 minutes early. Contact the venue in advance for accessible seating.

Is the show suitable for children?

The show is unapologetically adult. Expect strong language, edgy roasts, and unpredictable crowd work. Most comedy clubs enforce 18+ or 21+ entry rules, especially where alcohol is central. Some theaters may allow 16+ with a guardian, but parental discretion is strongly advised. Government-issued photo ID is often required at the door.

Can I take photographs or record the performance?

Discreet, no-flash photos from your seat are usually fine before the show or between segments, but filming or recording sets is generally prohibited. The production team captures the taping for official release. Policies can vary by venue; follow staff instructions. Episodes post online, so you’ll be able to watch the show again later.

Which cities are included in the tour?

The 2026 route will be announced closer to on-sale, but historically the show hits major markets such as Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, Denver, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas, Nashville, Atlanta, Miami, Toronto, and Vancouver, plus select festival dates. Expect the Austin Comedy Mothership residency to remain the hub.

Are VIP packages available?

Yes, select stops offer limited VIP bundles. Typical perks include early entry, premium seating, a commemorative lanyard, exclusive merch (like a signed poster), and a quick photo op when schedules allow. Package details vary by venue. Expect $150–$325 USD before fees. Confirm ADA-accessible VIP with the box office before purchase.

Who are the recurring guests or performers?

Tony Hinchcliffe hosts; Brian Redban co-hosts and runs visuals. Regular stand-up panelists in the Austin era have included David Lucas, William Montgomery, and Hans Kim. Surprise drop-ins have featured comedians like Joe Rogan, Ron White, Tom Segura, Whitney Cummings, Tim Dillon, and Shane Gillis. Lineups change nightly and are never guaranteed.

What makes this tour different from previous tours?

Expect bigger theaters in key cities, upgraded multicam capture for the podcast, and tuned sound so the crowd energy translates on YouTube and Spotify. The team often curates city-specific sign-ups to spotlight local talent, expands international stops when possible, and rolls out limited tour-only merch. It’s the raw, quick-draw format—scaled up.

What should fans know before attending?

The format is simple and electric: comics are pulled from a bucket, do one minute, then face an unscripted, funny interview and roast. Heckling isn’t part of the fun—reaction is. If you want to perform, arrive early to sign up, bring ID, and keep your set tight. Expect explicit content and follow venue phone, photo, and drink rules.

What’s next for Kill Tony after this tour?

After touring, expect a return to weekly tapings at Austin’s Comedy Mothership, consistent uploads on YouTube and audio platforms, and select festival appearances (for example, Moontower Just For Laughs Austin or other major comedy festivals when schedules align). Tony Hinchcliffe typically continues stand-up dates and specials, while Brian Redban produces additional Deathsquad shows.

How does the open-mic bucket sign-up work for comics?

Sign-ups usually open when doors do. Find the designated table, add your legal and stage name once, and keep your wristband handy. If drawn, you’ll get 60 seconds—no props or music cues—then an interview and feedback. The light means wrap up. Great sets sometimes lead to callbacks or invites on future episodes.

Are there livestreams or on-demand videos of the tour stops?

Most tour stops are recorded and released for free on the official Kill Tony YouTube channel, with audio on Spotify and Apple Podcasts shortly after. Occasional livestreams may be announced on Instagram, X, or Threads, but pay-per-view is rare. Avoid bootleg streams; they’re often low quality and may violate platform rules.

Is there an intermission?

Usually not. The show’s momentum is part of the appeal, with quick transitions from set to interview. Some theaters may schedule a brief pause for technical resets, but plan your concessions and restroom break before showtime to avoid missing a lottery pull or a surprise guest drop-in.

What are the venue age and ID policies?

Policies differ by venue. Clubs frequently require 18+ or 21+; theaters can be more flexible. Government-issued photo ID is needed to buy alcohol and sometimes to enter, even with a ticket. Always read your event page and confirmation email, and bring a physical ID to avoid delays at the door.

Is the show accessible for guests with disabilities?

Most theaters and clubs provide ADA seating, companion seats, and accessible restrooms. Some offer assistive listening devices upon request. Contact the box office before purchase for ramp, elevator, or sightline details, and arrive early to position comfortably. The show includes loud music stings but typically avoids strobes.

Will there be food and drink minimums?

Many comedy clubs require a two-item or two-drink minimum per guest, with menu items typically $10–$30 USD each. Theaters usually have no minimum but sell concessions. Check your ticketing page for policies, especially if you’re budgeting for a group night out.

How early should I arrive, and when do doors open?

Doors usually open 60–90 minutes before showtime. If you’re signing up for the bucket or aiming for prime general admission seats, arrive 45–60 minutes early. Will-call can back up, so bring digital tickets ready to scan. Parking fills quickly in downtown districts; consider ride-share or public transit.

What is the refund or ticket transfer policy?

Most tickets are final sale. If a show is canceled or rescheduled, platforms like Ticketmaster or AXS will guide you through refund or exchange options. Many venues support secure ticket transfers within your account. If you bought on the resale market, follow that platform’s policies and avoid off-platform payment methods.

Can aspiring comedians bring notes on stage?

Bringing a small set list is usually allowed but discouraged; the panel favors tight, memorized minutes. Props are generally not permitted. Keep it punchy, original, and within 60 seconds. If you bomb, lean into it—the interview can still shine. If you crush, be ready for follow-up questions or tags.

Will there be opening acts or local showcases?

Some stops feature a quick warm-up set from a regular or a strong local comic, then jump straight into the bucket. The mix varies by city and venue. Festivals may add curated showcase slots. Either way, the core of the night is the one-minute lottery and the panel’s off-the-cuff commentary.

Where can I find official updates and episode releases?

Follow Tony Hinchcliffe and Brian Redban on Instagram, X, and Threads for breaking news. Subscribe to the Kill Tony YouTube channel for new episodes and set reminders. Audio is released on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Venues and festivals also post date reveals and presale codes on their social feeds and email lists.

Is there tour merchandise, and how much does it cost?

Yes. Expect hats, shirts, posters, and occasional limited drops tied to specific cities. Prices typically run $25–$45 USD for tees and caps, $30–$60 USD for hoodies, and $20–$40 USD for posters, depending on print and size. Some VIP bundles include exclusive items you can’t buy at the table.

What are the parking and transit tips for big-city venues?

Downtown theaters often use paid garages and metered street parking that fills early. Budget $10–$35 USD for parking in major markets. Ride-share or light rail can save time after the show. Venues usually list the nearest lots on their event pages; check those maps and arrive early to avoid missing the cold open.