Patrick Monahan: I’m not a Terrorist, I’m Freddie Mercury - Edinburgh Fringe Review

Review by

Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review.

Armed with relentless high energy, boundless charm, and an unmatched ability to work a room, Patrick Monahan delivers a brilliant hour of stand-up with his latest show, I'm Not A Terrorist – I'm Freddie Mercury. 

Dealing with heavy topics including racial profiling, airport security checks, and life as an Iranian-Irish immigrant in post-1980 Britain might not scream stand-up comedy, but whilst the tone is a little heavy at times, Monahan lightens the mood, transforming systemic absurdity into infectious comedy.

Monahan's performance style is physical, interactive, and fiercely joyful. Rather than delivering a cynical political lecture, he disarms the audience with warmth and crowd work, drawing direct parallels between the dramatic theatricality of rock icons and the exaggerated panic of border control officers.

Monahan possesses one of the most charismatic personalities of any stand-up comedian; he instantly feels like a friend to the audience and that allows the crowd work to feel natural and not forced. He balances the actual material with working the crowd. There's a show here, but it also feels very off the cuff and in the moment. Monahan bridges the gap between stage and audience effortlessly. Including a hilarious finale using some audience volunteers on the stage.

A hilarious, warm-hearted, and entertaining hour of comedy. Monahan doesn't just prove he isn't a threat—he leaves the room utterly convinced that he’s one of the most delightfully engaging showmen at the Fringe.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Patrick Monahan: I’m not a Terrorist, I’m Freddie Mercury runs at Gilded Balloon Patter House - Dram until Sunday 30th August 2026. For tickets visit https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/patrick-monahan-i-m-not-a-terrorist-i-m-freddie-mercury