James Trickey once thought he had life figured out. With a mathematics degree, a master’s qualification, and a stable career as a chartered accountant, he seemed to be ticking all the right boxes. But life, as James has found, isn’t always about following the safest path — sometimes, it’s about daring to rewrite the script.
This summer, James is stepping onto one of the world’s biggest stages at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with his debut show Don’t Count On Me, proving that it’s never too late to follow a dream. By day, he continues his full-time work as an accountant. By night, he’ll swap spreadsheets for stand-up comedy, blending clever storytelling with the lessons learned from a unique upbringing and career journey.
Growing up with a British dad who celebrated life’s lighter moments and a Cambodian mum who placed heavy emphasis on financial security, James was taught the value of hard work and caution. But comedy had always tugged at him quietly. After winning the Leicester Square Theatre Sketch Off in 2024 and being shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Award, he decided to stop waiting for ‘the right time’ — and make space for passion alongside practicality.
In a time when rising costs are making it harder for artists to break through — with accommodation at the Fringe often costing more than £4,000 for just four weeks — James’ story is a reminder that bold dreams are still worth chasing. Despite the financial hurdles and the fear of leaving a secure path, he’s showing that success doesn’t have to mean sacrificing joy.
Don’t Count On Me is a heartwarming reflection on identity, ambition, and the courage to balance responsibility with risk — and to trust that sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that don’t add up neatly.
For anyone who’s ever wondered if they were too late, too busy, or too cautious to change their story, James Trickey’s journey offers a powerful answer: it’s never too late to bet on yourself.
Catch James Trickey at the Pleasance Courtyard in Edinburgh from 30th July to 24th August 2025. Tickets start at £10 — book here.