09-07-2025
Rocker with 600k-subscriber YouTube channel latest Colosseum act confirmed
As its long-awaited reopening edges closer, another notable name has been announced for the Watford Colosseum.
Rocker-turned 600k-subscriber YouTuber and podcaster, Justin Hawkins, will be coming to the iconic Rickmansworth Road venue on January 31 next year, with tickets on sale later this week.
While older readers may know him as lead singer of The Darkness - who reached second in the charts with 2003's I Believe in a Thing Called Love - the 50-year-old will be putting away the guitar to host a live episode of his podcast, Justin Hawkins Rides Again.
Justin Hawkins (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire) Launched in 2021, it sees the Surrey-born star review rock music, answer fan questions and discuss the often-secretive nature of the industry.
A show description on the Colosseum's website reads: "If you like pontificating about music and culture, uncovering insights into how the music industry really works and witnessing a man chaotically conducting an evening of entertainment, then Justin Hawkins Rides Again… Again is for you."
The tour begins in Swindon on January 12, with the Watford date confirmed for January 31, as part of a month-long run that will conclude in London on February 7.
Tickets for the Watford show can be purchased from the Colosseum website on Friday morning (July 11).
The Colosseum will officially reopen on August 29, with Ocean Colour Scene confirmed as the first act.
Operator AEG has said that the 40,000 square-foot venue, which is being run on behalf of Watford Borough Council, 'will bring an unparalleled entertainment experience to the area with world class live music and entertainment'.It will have a seated capacity of 1,189, with 2,345 people accommodated for standing.
(Image: Simon Jacobs) Other acts confirmed include Jake Bugg, The Stranglers and Suzi Quatro.
AEG formally took over the venue last week as the grand reopening edges nearer.
The venue has been shut since December 2020, but is being revived with the help of £16m in government funding.
