Kemsley's odyssey in stand-up comedy commenced in the year 2011, and remarkably, within a brief yet intense period of mere months, she triumphantly emerged victorious in the prestigious Funny's Funny contest. Her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft garnered her numerous accolades in the year 2012, including the coveted Bath Comedy Festival New Act of the Year award and the esteemed Brighton Comedy Festival New Act of the Year honor. The illustrious comedian Rhod Gilbert, renowned for his astute judgment, took notice of her remarkable skills and bestowed upon her the esteemed distinction of being one of the Ten Must See Comics of 2012.
Kemsley's autobiographical solo show, Slutty Joan, garnered widespread acclaim from esteemed critics, who praised its unique blend of humor and vulnerability, resulting in a remarkable theatrical experience that left a lasting impression on audiences. This critically acclaimed production was prominently featured in The Guardian, a renowned publication that has consistently showcased the most innovative and groundbreaking works in the world of entertainment.
In addition to her illustrious stand-up comedy career, Kemsley has also established herself as a talented podcaster, co-hosting the popular and highly acclaimed podcast, Why Is Harriet Crying?, alongside fellow comedian and close collaborator, Sunil Patel. This dynamic duo has created a podcast that has resonated with listeners of all ages, offering a unique blend of humor, wit, and heart, as they tackle a wide range of topics and share their personal experiences, insights, and perspectives.
Kemsley has made a plethora of television appearances, showcasing her versatility and charm on various popular programs. Among her many credits, she has been a guest on Sam Delaney's News Thing, a news satire show that offers a unique blend of humor and insight. Her comedic talents have also been showcased on Roast Battle, a competitive comedy series where contestants engage in witty banter and clever wordplay.
In addition to her work on Roast Battle, Kemsley has appeared on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, a comedy-variety show that combines the popular British quiz program Countdown with the humor of 8 Out of 10 Cats. Her appearances on this show have been met with critical acclaim and audience delight.
Furthermore, Kemsley has also been a part of the hit British comedy show 8 Out of 10 Cats, a program known for its clever writing, sharp wit, and hilarious sketches. Her participation on this show has further solidified her status as a talented and sought-after comedian.
In 2017, Kemsley and her then-fiancé Bobby Mair starred in a reality show on Viceland, titled Bobby & Harriet Get Married. This documentary-style series followed the couple as they prepared for their wedding ceremony, which was officiated by comedian Romesh Ranganathan. The show offered a unique glimpse into the couple's relationship and provided audiences with a behind-the-scenes look at their special day.
As a talented and accomplished actress, Kemsley has had the opportunity to showcase her impressive range and versatility on the big and small screens, with notable appearances in the film "Bonobo" and on television in the critically acclaimed series "Damned" and "Doctor Foster".
