Picture a British comedy genius who turned nostalgic children’s books into laugh-out-loud adult satire—meet Jason A. Hazeley! With his razor-sharp wit and knack for poking fun at modern life, Hazeley, alongside collaborator Joel Morris, has redefined humor with the wildly popular Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups series. From spoofing local newspapers to writing for iconic TV shows, this Chelmsford-born writer has become a cornerstone of British comedy.
Hazeley’s journey is a testament to the power of humor, blending nostalgia with biting satire. Whether he’s scripting for Philomena Cunk or crafting bestsellers, his work resonates with readers and viewers worldwide, all while he keeps things grounded, splitting his time between London and his favorite pub.
The Making of Jason A. Hazeley
Born in Chelmsford, Essex, Jason Hazeley (originally known as Jason Smith) discovered his comedic flair early. At King Edward VI Grammar School, he met lifelong collaborator Joel Morris, and the duo began their mischief with a parody school newsletter. Their big break came in sixth form when they sold a joke to The Russ Abbot Show for £15—a modest start for a career that would soar. Hazeley’s early forays into comedy, including a stint in the folk-pop duo Ben & Jason from 1998 to 2003, showcased his versatility, but writing was his true calling.
Jason A. Hazeley’s Unforgettable Stories
Hazeley’s most iconic contribution is the Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups series, co-authored with Morris. These parodies reimagine vintage Ladybird illustrations with sardonic commentary on adult life—think The Ladybird Book of the Hangover or How it Works: The Husband. Since 2015, the series has sold over 7.2 million copies, with titles like The Ladybird Book of Mindfulness and A Ladybird Book about Donald Trump dominating UK bestseller lists. Their clever blend of nostalgia and humor earned them a spot among Britain’s top-selling authors, outdone only by giants like J.K. Rowling in 2015.
Beyond books, Hazeley’s TV and film credits are a who’s-who of British comedy. He’s written for That Mitchell and Webb Look, Charlie Brooker’s Screenwipe, and the BAFTA-winning Electionwipe. His work on the Paddington films brought heartwarming humor to global audiences, while contributions to Philomena Cunk series showcased his knack for absurdly funny dialogue. Hazeley and Morris also co-created The Framley Examiner, a cult spoof newspaper, and penned quirky travel guides like Bollocks to Alton Towers, cementing their reputation for offbeat humor.
Their writing style—sharp, concise, and layered with irony—mirrors the absurdities of modern life. Each Ladybird book, at just 1200 words, is a masterclass in economy, delivering punchy jokes that linger. Their podcast, Rule of Three, named a 2018 Guardian best podcast, further showcases their comedic insight, dissecting comedy with guests like Eddie Izzard.
Why Jason A. Hazeley Matters
Hazeley’s impact lies in his ability to make us laugh at ourselves. The Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups series taps into universal experiences—midlife crises, hangovers, Brexit—while preserving the charm of a beloved children’s brand. His work has not only revitalized the Ladybird legacy but also redefined parody for a new generation. With translations in 12 languages and millions of copies sold, Hazeley’s humor transcends borders, proving comedy is a universal language.
His grounded approach—writing from a modest Holborn office decorated with spoof props—adds to his relatability. By celebrating the mundane with wit, Hazeley has carved a unique niche, influencing comedians and writers to embrace clever, accessible humor.
- Born: Chelmsford, Essex, UK
- Key Works: Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups, The Framley Examiner, Bollocks to Alton Towers, Paddington films
- Awards: BAFTA for Electionwipe (2016), British Podcast Award for Rule of Three (2020)
- Fun Fact: Hazeley collects vintage Ladybird artwork, including pieces from The Policeman.
Snag The Ladybird Book of the Hangover and dive into Jason A. Hazeley’s hilarious world of satire! Whether you’re chuckling at his books or binge-watching Philomena Cunk, his comedy is a perfect escape.