Irish father-daughter comedy duo bring their ‘Knuckle Down’ tour to Australia

They say family dynamics can be complicated — but not for Irish comedians Pat and Faye Shortt who are touring Australia.

They say family dynamics can be complicated — but not for Irish comedians Pat and Faye Shortt.

The father-daughter duo have brought their signature blend of humour and theatrical performance to Australia with their new show, Knuckle Down.

Pat Shortt, a household name in Irish comedy, first rose to fame as one half of the beloved Irish comedy duo D’Unbelievables with Jon Kenny. The duo reunited briefly in 2011 before Kenny’s death in November 2024.

Father and daughter comedy duo Pat (right) and Faye Shortt pictured at The Rocks. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Now, Pat continues the legacy with his daughter Faye — a rising star in her own right. While their partnership might draw attention due to their family ties, Faye is quick to challenge the “nepo baby” label.

“At the start there were definitely thoughts that I was only successful through my dad,” Faye told Confidential.

“But people didn’t know I’d actually gone and studied drama for three to four years in college. That’s all surpassed now. I have my own things going on.

“There’s less comparison, which is good for the confidence. You feel like your own individual.”

Comedian Faye Shortt pictured at The Rocks. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Faye trained at the Gaiety School of Acting and Bow Street Academy in Dublin, originally steering clear of comedy to carve her own identity.

“I was allergic to being compared to Dad,” she said.

“All my college scenes were heavy, dramatic ones until one tutor begged me to try something happy. I did a comedic scene and loved it.”

The pair’s creative collaboration began during the Covid lockdown, when Faye moved back home. Since then, they have been writing, performing, and even living together — an arrangement Faye describes as both challenging and inspiring.

“We always got on really well,” she said.

Comedian Pat Shortt. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“We’ve been living and working together for the last four years. You do have to wear a work hat and a home hat. But it makes for good comedy. We’re so honest with each other.”

Their latest show, Knuckle Down, marks Faye’s first time performing in Australia — a new audience they are excited yet nervous to face.

“There’s so many Irish living here, and they’re definitely the big draw,” Faye said.

Pat added, “The last time I performed here, about 20 per cent of the audience were Australians and friends brought along by Irish fans. It made for a great dynamic. They loved it, they went with the craic.”

Father and daughter comedy duo Pat and Faye Shortt. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Pat’s longtime commitment to character and performance continues in his new show. “Someone once described me as someone who performs a joke, not tells it and Faye is the same,” Pat said.

“She’s a trained actor. I’m not and I learn from her every day.”

The duo will perform in Sydney at the Factory Theatre Marrickville on May 2, and at The Lounge Chatswood on May 3.
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