Dave Thornton doesn’t just tell jokes—he builds entire worlds out of the absurdity of everyday life. Honest, whip-smart, and damn funny, this Geelong export has spent over twenty years proving that sharp wit and genuine warmth aren’t mutually exclusive.
From sold-out Australian theatres to Edinburgh, Montreal, New York and even Korea and South Africa—Dave has consistently delivered comedy all over the world that feels less like a performance and more like your funniest mate recounting their week.
You’ve probably seen Dave trading barbs on Sam Pang Tonight or battling wits on Would I Lie To You Australia, as well as Spicks and Specks, The Hundred with Andy Lee, and Hughesy, We Have a Problem. Combining his love of comedy and sport, Dave also hosted Fox Footy’s AFL quiz show The Beep Test and appeared as a regular panellist on Fox Sports’ The Back Page.
He’s also an accomplished actor with roles in the beloved Upper Middle Bogan and House Husbands, did four years on Melbourne’s Fox FM breakfast radio show, and is an in-demand voice-over artist.
Online, Dave’s stand-up clips have racked up millions of views from fans around the world, proving his comedy translates everywhere.
Whether he’s crafting material about the peculiarities of modern life or his own family experiences, Dave has mastered the art of making strangers feel like insiders. Smart without being smug, personal without being preachy, cheeky but…well ok he’s cheeky – Dave Thornton is one of Australia’s best, and he makes it look effortless.
Talking Points
MC & Host
A highly sort after corporate entertainer and MC, Dave brings years of experience and his distinctive brand of relaxed yet professional comedy style. He’s the perfect addition to theMC & Host
next Company Team Building day and Industry Awards Night.
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Dave Thornton - 2019 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala
Dave Thornton has built a global reputation for his honest, engaging, whip-smart and damn funny comedy. Dave's TV credentials include hosting a series Channel 9's 20 to 1, appearances ABC TV's Spicks and Specks and Agony Uncles, Network Ten's Hughesy We Have a Problem and regular appearances as a co-host on The Project.Dave Thornton - Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala 2018
Dave Thornton has built a global reputation for his honest, engaging, whip-smart and damn funny comedy. Dave's TV credentials include hosting a series Channel 9's 20 to 1, appearances ABC TV's Spicks and Specks and Agony Uncles, Network Ten's Hughesy We Have a Problem and regular appearances as a co-host on The Project.Dave Thornton | 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala | Saxton Speakers
We’ve used a lot of MCs over the years, but the reception we received from Dave Thornton was the best we’ve ever had. Dave is an amazing talent, quick to pick up on the crowd and ‘get’ the g ... keep reading Total Tools Conference
Dave was incredible. Our attendees really loved him. He was super flexible with last minute changes to the run sheet, stalling when we needed him to and overall managed to connect with the delegates really well.
We decided to ask Dave to be the main entertainment at our recent Corporate Christmas Party. This is our most significant event on the annual social calendar and included a mixed crowd of over 100 staff and associates. So it goes without saying that our expectations were high - and Dave did not disappoint. Dave interacts well with his audience, relates to all types and is just a down right funny bloke. I'd love to have him back for next year's Christmas do. Thanks Dave
He's razor sharp and very funny.
A quick and self deprecating wit... an engaging comic with a truly Australian take on life.
