Beyond the Ordinary

Ola Gbaja-Biamila (Class of 2005) aka ‘Ola the Comedian,’ is an actor, entrepreneur and comedian. His Trinity experiences shaped his drive for success. After studying at LSE, Ola pursued stand-up comedy, becoming a regular at the Comedy Store. He created Sunday Service with Ola, a live show blending stand-up and music, and has performed it globally. Ola also writes for other comedians and supports the growing comedy scene in Nigeria.

Fondest memories from Trinity?

My fondest memories involve learning the violin, playing rugby, joining the CCF and going on trips. I was aware that many of my friends at other schools didn’t have access to such privileged activities and it made me feel fortunate. It made me believe that success was well within reach—it was just a matter of time.

Did your school experiences influence your career in comedy and acting?

Yes, definitely. Growing up as a young black boy at a private school gave me a unique perspective that later shaped my comedy. My background provided plenty of material, and the critical thinking skills I developed in History and Religious Studies also helped me observe the world in a humorous way.

Teachers or students who inspired you?

Mr Glynn and Mrs Fulker nurtured my appreciation for the arts. Mr Whitely once said, “One day, I’ll buy something from you,” which spurred on my entrepreneurial spirit. I also created a character for a TV pilot called Dr Leon Askwith, named after my English teacher, Dr Asquith.

Were you a joker at school?

Not in the typical sense, but I was known for my quick wit and clever retorts. I loved a well-placed turn of phrase.

Journey from school to where you are now?

After Trinity, I went to LSE and started performing stand-up in my second year. I took a year out after failing my second year to focus on comedy, shooting my first hour-long special. I returned to finish my degree and later performed in Washington DC before Obama’s inauguration. After graduating, I spent four weeks in New York, performing and honing my skills. From there, I worked my way up in comedy, did some writing for TV and radio and performed globally. I also ventured into entrepreneurship, opening a comedy club with Nabil Abdulrashid and running a travel business with Mikel Ameen. Eventually, with a growing family, I transitioned into a Business Development role at a Fintech company, which worked out well during the pandemic lockdowns.

What inspired you to get into comedy?

I fell in love with stand-up at university. I admired comedians as modern-day philosophers and began to see humour in everything. I couldn’t help but quote them to express my thoughts.

Were your friends surprised by your comedy career?

Yes, most of my friends were surprised. Some saw potential, but no one expected me to make a full-time career out of it. I even rapped as a teenager, so they probably thought that would be my path. I was also noted in the Yearbook as most likely to “admit that he shot 2Pac.”

First big break?

There wasn’t one single big break but rather a series of moments: my first performances abroad, signing with my first agent, becoming a regular at the Comedy Store and landing gigs like 8 Out of 10 Cats.

Most memorable or challenging performance?

Performing to Nigerian audiences has been challenging. Despite my heritage, my style often didn’t connect with the crowd, as comedy in Nigeria was more traditional at the time.

Favourite project?

I created Sunday Service with Ola, an interactive live show blending stand-up, music and debate. The audience loved it, and it became a real community. It was, unfortunately, shut down by the pandemic.

Best piece of advice in your career?

“There is no limit to what a man can do, or where he can go, if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.”

Dream Drinks Party with five comedians?

Dave Chappelle, Stewart Lee, Martin Lawrence, Cedric the Entertainer and Mike Epps. I’d serve terrible food and play obscure jazz—just the right mix of acerbic humour to turn bad food into a great time.

What’s next for you?

I’m focusing more on writing for others behind the scenes, like ghostwriting for comedians. I still enjoy seeing my material succeed on shows like Have I Got News For You. I’m also supporting the growing comedy scene in Nigeria and helping it flourish from behind the curtain.

Where can we see your work next?

I occasionally record a podcast, Boys Quarter, with Funmbi Omotayo. You can also follow me on Instagram @olathecomedian for updates on my latest projects.