Lee Mack: Sitcom Milestones and Upcoming Festival Appearance
LONDON, 17 January 2026 – Comedian Lee Mack remains a staple of British television as his landmark sitcom, Not Going Out, prepares for its 15th series and 20th anniversary. Fans can also look forward to seeing the quick-witted performer live as part of the Slapstick Festival 2026 in Bristol this February.
A Comedy Institution
Lee Mack, born Lee Gordon McKillop in Southport, first rose to prominence by winning the ‘So You Think You’re Funny?’ competition at the 1995 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. His career since has been defined by rapid-fire delivery and relatable observational humour, leading to BAFTA-winning performances on panel shows like Would I Lie To You? and his current role hosting ITV’s hit quiz The 1% Club.
Not Going Out: Past, Present, and Future
Mack’s most enduring creation is the BBC One sitcom Not Going Out, which he writes, stars in, and executive produces. The show, which began in 2006, follows the chaotic life of Lee (played by Mack) and his wife Lucy (Sally Bretton).
The 14th series aired in the summer of 2025, featuring episodes such as ‘House Move’ and ‘Oasis’, which centred on a doomed attempt to buy concert tickets. The BBC has since confirmed the commission of a 15th series, set to air later in 2026, which will coincide with the show’s 20th anniversary on air.
Key Facts & Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lee Gordon McKillop |
| Born | 4 August 1968, Southport, Lancashire |
| Breakthrough | Winner, ‘So You Think You’re Funny?’ (Edinburgh Fringe 1995) |
| Flagship Sitcom | Not Going Out (2006–present, 14 series, 106 episodes) |
| Major Awards | BAFTA TV Award for Best Entertainment Performance (2020), Rose d’Or for Sitcom (2007) |
| Upcoming Live Event | Slapstick Festival 2026: ‘Celebrating 20 Years of Not Going Out’, Bristol Beacon, 6-7 February 2026 |
From Stage to Screen and Back
While television has been his primary medium in recent years, Mack maintains strong roots in live performance. He has undertaken several major national stand-up tours, with his ‘Lee Mack Live’ show touring in 2025. His next scheduled public appearance is a celebratory event for Not Going Out at the Slapstick Festival in Bristol, a festival dedicated to screen comedy.
Beyond comedy, Mack has explored acting roles in series such as Doctor Who, Brassic, and Inside No. 9, and hosts the mindfulness-focused podcast I Can’t Believe It’s Not Buddha.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lee Mack touring in 2026?
As of January 2026, the only confirmed live date for Lee Mack is his appearance at the Slapstick Festival in Bristol on 6-7 February 2026, celebrating 20 years of Not Going Out. Any further stand-up tour dates for 2026 have not been officially announced.
Will there be more series of Not Going Out?
Yes. The BBC has recommissioned Not Going Out for a 15th series, which is due to film and air in 2026, marking the show’s 20th anniversary.
What other shows does Lee Mack appear in?
Lee Mack is a team captain on the long-running BBC panel show Would I Lie To You? and is the host of ITV’s prime-time quiz The 1% Club. He also makes frequent guest appearances on other panel and talk shows.
Where can I watch Lee Mack’s old stand-up shows?
Previous stand-up specials, including ‘Going Out Live’ and ‘Hit the Road Mack’, have been released on DVD and may be available on digital streaming platforms. His sitcom, Not Going Out, is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.