• Michael Idato

She has been investigated by the Secret Service and spurned by Hollywood but, on the eve of an Australian tour, Kathy Griffin says having two siblings diagnosed with cancer puts everything in perspective.

An Australian comedian has been named joint winner of the Edinburgh Comedy Awards, a first for the city's Fringe festival in its 70-year history.

• Elisabeth O'Leary

A comedian who quipped about Britain's new pound coin at the Edinburgh arts festival has won Best Joke of the Fringe 2017.

• Joanne Brookfield

Performers give their all in a festival that can change their lives.

• Ron Cerabona

In Tom Gleeson's new show he promises to tell you when he's been lying.

• Michael Lallo

About 140,000 Australians will see the legendary comic perform – while many more miss out.

• Tony Wright

Hannah Gadsby is walking away from stand-up comedy, and reveals her long struggle with creativity, sexuality and illness.

• Craig Platt

While there is plenty to like about Chris Rock's ability to explore uncomfortable topics fearlessly, this show felt undercooked.

• Sarah Thomas

Comedy club punters in Perth and Melbourne scored a massive treat with surprise appearances by Chris Rock.

• Broede Carmody

Kathy Griffin's latest stunt has backfired spectacularly, drawing ire from progressives and conservatives alike.

• Abby Ohlheiser and Emily Yahr

US President Donald Trump wasn't there to roast in person at the White House correspondents' dinner, but that didn't stop the evening's entertainer, Hasan Minhaj.

• Hannah Francis

What could be more provocative than prancing around naked on stage? Talking back to critics.

• Elissa Blake

Soon to turn 50, Frank Woodley rightly considers himself a seasoned veteran of Australian comedy. But the anxiety never goes away.

• Lenny Ann Low

First-class lols from comic to watch Penny Greenhalgh

• Hannah Francis

It's a case of third time's the charm for the Melbourne-based comedian.

• Joanne Brookfield

Writing a book was a very different proposition for the Irish comedian Jason Byrne. But he knuckled down to produce his memoir – and he didn't need any props.

• Lenny Ann Low

Success has not stemmed New Zealand comedian Rose Matafeo's self-deprecating style.

• Richard Watts

Matt Ford's stand-up is bold and acerbic; his stage-mate Dane Simpson's less so.

• Lucy Battersby

A reliable and satisfying hour of stand-up. ★★★★

• Liam Mannix

The wine bluffs find the biggest wine wanker of all in their audience.

• Mark Dapin

"I've seen what they go through," says Sydney Comedy Festival director Jorge Menidis, speaking about struggling young comedians.

• Craig Platt

The Queenslander fuses comedy with philosophy to powerful effect.

• Craig Platt

Is it possible for a show to be one of the best things you've seen at the festival, and one of the worst, at the same time? ★★★★

• Debbie Cuthbertson and Melissa Cunningham

Renowned comics lead a stellar field in this year's Barry Award.