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Entertainment • Comedy

Romesh Ranganathan

Romesh Ranganathan is a British stand-up comedian, actor and television presenter.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Romesh Ranganathan is a British stand-up comedian, actor and television presenter. He is known for comedy series such as *The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan*, *The Ranganation* and *Rob & Romesh Vs*, and for hosting *The Weakest Link*.

Early life and education

Romesh Ranganathan was born in Crawley, West Sussex, and attended Birkbeck, University of London. Sources identify his birth name as Jonathan Romesh Ranganathan.

Comedy career

After working as a mathematics teacher, he moved into stand-up comedy and later became a prominent figure on British television. His work has included panel shows, stand-up tours and original series.

Television and radio

He has fronted or appeared in programmes including *Judge Romesh*, *The Ranganation*, *The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan*, *Rob & Romesh Vs* and *The Weakest Link*. He also presents radio programming on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

Personal life

Available sources describe him as married with three children and based in Crawley or West Sussex. Some biographical profiles also note Sri Lankan Tamil family background.

Key facts

  • Romesh Ranganathan is a British stand-up comedian, actor and television presenter.
  • He was born in Crawley, West Sussex, and his birth name is Jonathan Romesh Ranganathan.
  • Before becoming a full-time comedian, he worked as a mathematics teacher.
  • He is known for presenting *The Weakest Link* and starring in *The Ranganation* and *The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan*.
  • He has worked in stand-up, television, radio and podcasting.
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Canadian context

He is a British entertainer with international recognition, and his stand-up, television work and podcasts may be of interest to Canadian audiences who follow UK comedy.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Romesh Ranganathan?
He is a British stand-up comedian, actor and television presenter known for comedy and entertainment programmes on UK television.
What is Romesh Ranganathan's real name?
His birth name is Jonathan Romesh Ranganathan.
What is Romesh Ranganathan best known for?
He is best known for *The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan*, *The Ranganation*, *Rob & Romesh Vs* and presenting *The Weakest Link*.
What did Romesh Ranganathan do before comedy?
He worked as a mathematics teacher before becoming a full-time comedian.
Where was Romesh Ranganathan born?
He was born in Crawley, West Sussex, England.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romesh_Ranganathan
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, occupations, years active, and major TV programmes.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4229189/bio/
    Supports: Birth details, career overview, and presenting roles.
  3. All American Speakers — https://www.allamericanspeakers.com/celebritytalentbios/Romesh+Ranganathan/434449
    Supports: Career background, prior teaching work, and stand-up profile.
  4. BBC — https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5tXHtx54lD2435nKhpFVdtH/eight-things-we-learned-about-romesh-ranganathan-s-desert-island-discs
    Supports: Current BBC presenting roles and programme associations.
  5. SBS — https://www.sbs.com.au/voices/article/from-teaching-maths-to-performing-comedy-for-prince-harry-meet-romesh-ranganathan/arphlfmk2
    Supports: Transition from mathematics teacher to comedy career.
  6. The Times — https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/romesh-ranganathan-comedy-romantic-getaway-the-cynic-katherine-ryan-dsbrjpjt9
    Supports: Personal background, family life, and Crawley connection.