Scottish actor Martin Compston has been announced as co-host for Hoolie in the Hydro: The Big Yin, taking place at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on Saturday 13 December 2025. The Line of Duty star will join Gaelic singer Julie Fowlis to front the celebration of Scottish music and culture, which this year pays tribute to legendary comedian Sir Billy Connolly.
Compston, best known for his role as Detective Sergeant Steve Arnott in the BBC’s Line of Duty, brings considerable star power to the event which will close with a tribute to Sir Billy Connolly. His distinguished career includes roles in films like Sweet Sixteen and television series including The Nest and Vigil, establishing him as one of Scotland’s most recognisable talents. He will share hosting duties with Julie Fowlis, who has fronted the event since its launch in 2022.
Hoolie in the Hydro has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Scottish cultural calendar. This year’s edition is themed The Big Yin and is dedicated to honouring Sir Billy Connolly, whose influence on Scottish culture has been immeasurable. Staged at the close of Glasgow’s 850th birthday year, the event promises an unforgettable evening featuring Scotland’s finest traditional and contemporary musicians.
The musical lineup includes Elephant Sessions, Trail West, Mànran and Beluga Lagoon, alongside showbiz royalty Elaine C. Smith and Still Game star Gavin Mitchell, known as Bobby the Barman. The glittering bill reflects the event’s commitment to showcasing the breadth of Scottish musical talent and entertainment.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Compston said: “I am absolutely delighted to be part of Hoolie in the Hydro. It goes from strength to strength each year celebrating the very best of Scottish music and culture, no one epitomises that more than Big Banana Feet himself, Sir Billy Connolly. Join us as we say slàinte to the Big Yin.”
Julie Fowlis added: “I’m delighted to be invited back to co-host the Hoolie this year with Martin. It promises to be an exciting night of music, and this event is a real statement of where traditional and Scottish music is at.”
Hoolie in the Hydro organiser, broadcaster and musician Gary Innes praised the announcement, saying: “To have someone of Martin’s calibre co-hosting Hoolie in the Hydro is a real coup, not just for the event but for all who hold Scottish music and culture close to their hearts. Martin’s passion for Scotland and its people is evident in everything he does, and having him pay tribute to Sir Billy Connolly makes this year’s Hoolie even more significant.”
Innes continued: “We couldn’t be prouder to have him on board and I know him and Julie Fowlis will make a fabulous team. This year’s event is expected to be the biggest and most memorable yet, combining spectacular musical performances with a heartfelt tribute to a national icon. We are expecting tickets to soar out the door as fans gather to celebrate Scottish culture and honour The Big Yin, with one of the country’s best-loved actors and most cherished singers at the helm.”
The event has announced Parkinson’s UK as its charity partner for 2025, recognising Sir Billy Connolly’s journey with the condition and supporting a cause close to his heart. This partnership adds an extra layer of significance to the tribute evening, connecting the celebration with meaningful charitable work.
Tickets for Hoolie in the Hydro: The Big Yin are on sale now at www.ovohydro.com/events/detail/hoolie-in-the-hydro-2025
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