Dave Hughes’ fringe now a face curtain after growing it for Melbourne Comedy Festival

Dave Hughes hasn’t had a haircut since last year’s Melbourne comedy festival — and is even being accused of stealing an Australian comic queen’s locks.

Dave Hughes is looking forward to letting his hair down in his 23rd year performing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The comedian and television and radio personality, who hasn’t had a haircut since last year’s festival, says his tresses will be a talking point of this year’s show, aptly titled Hairy.

“It’s basically just repeating the insults I’ve had,” he says.

“People are saying that I stole Judith Lucy’s hair, and we are starting to look similar, and she has every reason to be angry about that.”

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Dave Hughes has his scraggly locks styled ahead of a photoshoot for Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Picture: David Caird

Despite the negativity he has copped for his crop of curls, Hughesy says he is personally a fan of his long locks.

“I like it when it gets in my eyes; it makes me feel alive,” he laughs.

“My wife just asks me to wash it, but I try to keep it dry for as long as possible and keep my head away from the shower nozzle.”

Dave Hughes says he is a huge fan of his longer locks. Picture: David Caird

“We did have a nit scare but the mobile nit unit came to the house and I was given the all clear; I think the dirt protects it.”

Ahead of the festival, Hughesy was given the glamour treatment at Hair Time on Beena.

“It’s like a step back in time; most patrons are over 50, but selfies were had,” he said.

Dave Hughes, Hairy, until April 21, Melbourne Town Hall. Book tickets