Nicola Sturgeon Live

Nicola Sturgeon is set to swap politics for punchlines as she steps onto the stage for her comedy debut, just days after it was confirmed she would not face charges in the Operation Branchform probe.

The former first minister will co-host Books and Banter at Glasgow’s King’s Theatre tonight alongside her longtime friend, acclaimed crime author Val McDermid. Part of the Glasgow Comedy Festival, the event is expected to pack the 1,785-seat venue, with only a handful of gallery tickets still available.

This unexpected career move comes fresh on the heels of Sturgeon’s name being cleared in a high-profile police investigation into the SNP’s finances. While political drama has surrounded her in recent months, tonight’s show promises a lighter tone, filled with wit, personal anecdotes, and literary debates.

The duo will delve into the books they adore — and those they detest — while reflecting on how literature has shaped their lives. A lineup of comedy guests will also join them on stage to discuss the stories that have left a lasting impression.

According to the event description, audiences can expect “lively chat and lots of laughs” during what is billed as a “brilliant and revelatory evening.”

Earlier this week, following the decision to drop the investigation, Sturgeon stated she had been “vindicated” and insisted there was “never a scrap of evidence” against her.

Beyond tonight’s show, Sturgeon is making waves in other media too. Her political memoir, Frankly, is set for an August release, with promotional interviews likely to dominate headlines. With the book poised to become a bestseller, her presence on stage and screen seems far from over.

For those eager to witness Sturgeon’s comedic debut, Books and Banter kicks off at 5 PM tonight — though snagging one of the few remaining seats might require some luck.