Peter Kay’s stand-up show at the Utilita Arena Birmingham was brought to an abrupt halt after just 45 minutes
Kelly Williams-LE, Katy Hallam-CAM, Kirstie McCrum Deputy Head of News, Live News Network, Kelly Williams and Katy Hallam
21:55, 01 May 2026Updated 22:01, 01 May 2026
Peter Kay was ‘bundled off-stage'(Image: BBC)
Peter Kay was reportedly ushered off-stage in Birmingham as his comedy performance came to an unexpected halt after merely 45 minutes. The comedian had begun his set at the Utilita Arena Birmingham at 8pm this evening (Friday, May 1), but proceedings were suddenly brought to a close three-quarters of an hour later.
Those in attendance said there had been ‘no explanation’ and nothing to suggest anything was wrong before a production team member walked onto the stage at approximately 8.45pm to inform the crowd the show would not be continuing.
Some ticket holders claimed they had seen police officers inside the arena, which was then evacuated. The performance, part of a nationwide tour with all proceeds going to 12 leading cancer charities, had begun at 8pm, reports Birmingham Live.
Peter Kay is due to take to the stage at the same location tomorrow evening (Saturday, May 2). West Midlands Police confirmed they had evacuated the arena after a “potentially suspicious bag” was found. They also said that a 19-year-old man was in custody.
Peter Kay during his appearance on This Morning(Image: ITV)
An audience member told BirminghamLive that everyone was told to leave the premises by a production team member at around 8.45pm.
They were told the performance “wouldn’t be continuing”.
One attendee who was at the show posted on X, previously known as Twitter: “Just been evacuated out the Utilitia Arena Birmingham and Peter Kay bundled off stage,” accompanied by a mind blown emoji. Another shared footage of the arena evacuation, posting: “Being evacuated from the Peter Kay gig in Birmingham. No information as to why.”
West Midlands Police issued a statement on X: “We are carrying out an evacuation at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham after a potential suspicious bag was found.
“A 19-year-old man is in custody and as a precaution the site is currently subject of a search. We will provide further updates when we can.”
Ensure our latest news headlines always appear at the top of your Google search by making us a preferred source. Click here to activate or add us as a preferred source.