Amanda Dwyer Honoured with Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award

Comedian Amanda Dwyer has been named the recipient of the prestigious Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award at the recent Glasgow Comedy Festival (GCF) Gala. The award celebrates an individual who truly embodies the unique spirit of Glasgow. Dwyer received her accolade at the King's Theatre, where she was also treated to a personal video message from the legendary Sir Billy Connolly himself.

Key Takeaways

• Amanda Dwyer is the fourth recipient of the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award.

• The award recognises the individual who most personifies the "Spirit of Glasgow".

• Sir Billy Connolly sent a personalised video message to congratulate Dwyer.

• Dwyer's comedy often tackles difficult subjects with humour and accessibility.

• She is also a champion for female and non-binary comedians.

A Momentous Occasion

Dwyer, 36, expressed her profound surprise and delight upon receiving the award, describing the moment as "the most surreal moment in my life." She was visibly emotional as she accepted the glass trophy, engraved with Sir Billy's self-portrait, from host Susie McCabe. The comedian admitted to being in "complete shock" and couldn't believe she had won an award named after her idol.

Sir Billy Connolly, speaking from his home in Florida, offered his congratulations, referencing one of Dwyer's jokes with a characteristic quip: "Amanda Dwyer, who is superb and knows more about bumholes than I do." His message was met with cheers from the audience.

The Spirit of Glasgow

The Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award is presented annually to an individual who best embodies the city's resilience, humour, and character. Dwyer joins an esteemed list of previous winners, including Rosco McClelland (2025), Susie McCabe (2024), and Janey Godley (2023).

Krista MacDonald, director of the GCF, praised Dwyer for her ability to "personify the city she comes from in every way." MacDonald highlighted Dwyer's talent for finding humour in dark times and her thoughtful approach to tackling "the raw, and often traumatic, realities of being a woman." Dwyer's deadpan delivery and sharp wit have made a significant impact on the Scottish comedy scene over the past five years.

Championing New Voices

Dwyer is also recognised for her commitment to fostering a more inclusive comedy environment. She founded "Material, Girl," a successful monthly comedy show and podcast featuring all-female and non-binary line-ups at The Stand comedy club. This initiative aims to provide a platform for underrepresented talent and create a welcoming space for women in comedy.

This year's shortlist was notable for featuring the most women ever nominated for the award, alongside the first non-comic nominee, underscoring the growing diversity within the Glasgow comedy scene. Dwyer's win is seen as a testament to the strength and talent of female comedians currently making waves.

Sources

• Amanda Dwyer ‘over the moon’ to win Billy Connolly Glasgow comedy award, London Evening Standard.

• Amanda Dwyer wins top comedy award picked by Sir Billy Connolly, Yahoo News UK.