A Unique Journey of Laughter and Healing
For the man fondly known as “the doctor who prescribes jokes,” comedy isn’t just an escape — it’s a calling. Hillary Okello, better known as Dr. Hillary, has carved out a unique path where humor serves as both his profession and his passion. His journey from a trained medic to a stand-up comedian is a testament to the power of laughter in healing and connecting people.
When he steps onto the stage, mic in hand and grin in place, Dr. Hillary has one mission — to heal through humor. He’s not just another stand-up comic; he’s literally a trained medic who swapped the stethoscope for a spotlight, prescribing laughter instead of pills. Offstage, he’s calm, thoughtful, and analytical — traits that hint at his medical background. But once he begins to perform, he becomes an unstoppable force of sharp wit and storytelling, diagnosing life’s everyday absurdities and transforming them into roaring laughter.
“Comedy has become full-time now,” he admits with a chuckle. “But the medical discipline helps me stay organized and grounded. Once a medic, always a medic.”
Dr. Hillary’s rise has been a steady journey of growth, grace, and grind. From open mics in Kampala to international stages across Southern Africa, his performances have captivated audiences and earned him recognition as one of Uganda’s most exciting comedy exports. In recent months, he’s performed in Botswana and South Africa, and in December, he’ll headline a show in Harare before embarking on a world comedy tour next year — a dream that will see him perform in over ten African countries and five European cities, including London, Oslo, and Berlin, before heading to North America and Australia.
“It feels amazing to take Ugandan comedy to the world,” he says. “Laughter truly travels. When people from different countries connect with Ugandan stories, it shows how powerful humor can be.”
His punchlines are rooted in Uganda’s everyday experiences — taxi conductors, family drama, and village weddings — but his delivery is universal. “I focus on shared human experiences,” he explains. “I may start with something Ugandan, but by the end, everyone sees themselves in it. That’s the magic.”
The Power of Shared Experiences
Dr. Hillary’s fans love that authenticity — humor that is both funny and familiar. Whether he’s dissecting politics, love, or life’s small struggles, there’s always a truth that lands between the laughter. “I use humor to say serious things in a way people can laugh, think, and still go home happy,” he adds.
Asked about the current state of Uganda’s comedy scene, he beams with pride but stays realistic. “We’ve come far — the talent is undeniable. What we need now is more structure, better industry support, and platforms to take our craft global. I want to see Ugandan comedians on Netflix and touring the world.”
His inspirations range from homegrown legends like Salvador, Pablo, and Anne Kansiime to international giants like Trevor Noah, Kevin Hart, and Dave Chappelle — all masters of blending truth with laughter.
As for what drives him, it’s the joy of connection. “Uganda is rich in humor, heart, and humanity,” he says. “We laugh through everything. Hopefully, we can change how the world views Africa — one joke at a time.”
Upcoming Performances and Future Goals
And for those eager to catch him live, the doctor of laughter has a prescription ready. He returns to Theatre Labonita this Friday, November 7, for a night of pure comedy, sharp storytelling, and surprises that promise to leave fans in stitches.
“Expect pure laughter, clever storytelling, and that signature Ugandan humor that makes us laugh at our own realities,” he teases. “This show is for all of us — Uganda must laugh!”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Hillary remains committed to pushing the boundaries of Ugandan comedy. He envisions a future where African comedians are recognized globally, not just for their humor but for their ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences. His journey is a reminder that laughter can transcend borders and bring people together.
In addition to his upcoming performances, he continues to explore new opportunities to expand his reach and impact. His goal is to create a platform that supports emerging comedians and helps them gain international exposure. By doing so, he hopes to inspire a new generation of African comedians to embrace their unique voices and share their stories with the world.
Dr. Hillary’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and passion. From a medical professional to a global comedian, he has shown that humor can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and change. As he continues to spread laughter across the world, his journey serves as an inspiration to many who believe in the power of comedy to make a difference.