British Stand Up Comedians: Exploring the Icons and Rising Stars of UK Comedy in 2025
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 3
- 16 min read
British stand up comedians are having a moment right now. Whether you’re into the old favourites or you’re always looking for new faces, there’s something for everyone. The UK comedy scene in 2025 is buzzing with talent – from the legends who’ve been making us laugh for years, to the newcomers selling out shows at the Fringe. Some comedians are all about sharp political jokes, while others just tell stories about their lives that somehow end up being hilarious. There’s also a real mix of backgrounds, styles, and voices, which keeps things interesting. If you’re after a laugh, British stand up comedians are definitely worth your time this year.
Key Takeaways
British stand up comedians in 2025 include both well-known legends and exciting new acts.
The scene is more diverse than ever, with comedians from different backgrounds and styles.
Rising stars like Paddy Young and Lindsey Santoro are making waves alongside established names.
Comedy competitions and awards continue to help fresh talent break through.
British stand up comedians are reaching global audiences through streaming and international tours.
Legendary British Stand Up Comedians Redefining the Scene
When you look at the heavyweights of British comedy, there’s a clear sense that they’re not just making people laugh, but really changing what stand-up can be. Each figure on this list has steered the art form in surprising and bold directions, whether it’s by storytelling, political jabs, or sharp social commentary. These are comics who pack out huge shows but still sound completely original on every stage, whether they pop up at major venues or under-the-radar events like those Tuesday night gigs at Camden Eye pub.
Greg Davies: King of Storytelling and Deadpan Delivery
Greg Davies doesn’t have to dress up his jokes with gimmicks. His style is tall—literally and figuratively. His greatest gift? Spending five minutes telling you about a disastrous childhood event, only to stun everyone with an unexpected punchline. It’s the ordinary stuff—schoolteachers, parents, and football matches—that Greg turns into gold. Here’s what really makes him stand out:
Paints painfully funny pictures of suburban life
Keeps a deadpan face no matter how wild the story gets
Can make a roomful of strangers roar just literally describing his dad’s shoes
If you think you've heard every funny tale about growing up in Britain, Greg still finds a new angle.
Sara Pascoe: Feminist Wit and Industry Influence
Sara Pascoe can make you rethink everyday situations—and then have you in stitches over them. Her routines tackle things like relationships, biology, and all the little power struggles everyone ignores. She’s a breath of fresh air:
Blends sharp political points with real-life awkwardness
Regularly speaks out about representation in comedy
Hosts and writes for TV, making sure more female voices are heard
Sara’s style isn’t just smart; it’s approachable. She talks about difficult things with warmth, but doesn’t let anyone off easy.
Romesh Ranganathan: Cultural Identity and Mainstream Stardom
Romesh Ranganathan is proof you don’t need to fit the typical comedian mould to go mainstream. Rooted in his Tamil heritage and South London upbringing, his comedy often pokes at cultural misunderstandings and expectations. Romesh’s routines are:
Packed with self-deprecation—he admits he’s a little grumpy, a bit awkward, but always honest
Famous for unfiltered observations about being a parent, being British-Asian, and genuinely feeling out of place
Top performer on panel shows and a familiar TV presence
Romesh bridges gaps—between cultures, between indie gigs and primetime, and between personal stories and broad appeal.
Bridget Christie: Political Satire and Smart Humour
Bridget Christie’s approach to comedy is all about saying the things everyone’s been thinking but maybe didn’t dare to voice. Her shows blend politics with plain old silly jokes. What sets Bridget apart:
Tackles big issues—sexism, Brexit, climate change—without sounding smug
Isn’t afraid to act foolish or make herself the butt of the joke
Carves out entire shows from one simple, sharp idea
Her comedy is the kind where you nod a little while you laugh, then keep thinking about what she said on your way home.
Comedian | Defining Trait | Common Topics |
|---|---|---|
Greg Davies | Storytelling master | Family, school, growing up |
Sara Pascoe | Smart feminism | Gender roles, body politics |
Romesh Ranganathan | Cultural honesty | Identity, daily life, family |
Bridget Christie | Political sharpness | Politics, social justice |
If you’re after comics who don’t just tell jokes but really make you see things in a new way—or just want to see a master at work—it’s worth watching these legends, whether it’s on a huge tour or a cheap ticket night. Sometimes, the biggest laughs come from familiar faces telling uncomfortable truths with a grin.
The Unstoppable Forces of Modern British Stand Up Comedy
Some British stand up comedians just seem to have a momentum all their own right now. They’ve built huge fanbases, filled arenas, dropped Netflix specials, and even made their own weird corners of comedy feel like home to millions—often doing it with a personal voice that’s unmistakable. Here are four names you can’t escape in 2025, and for good reason.
James Acaster: Quirky Surrealism and Standout Specials
James Acaster’s stand up isn’t just a string of jokes—it’s a wild, unpredictable journey through odd stories, left-field logic, and genuine awkwardness. He’s become a household name, picked up awards, and knows how to sell out shows with just a shrug and a sideways glance.
Breakout shows: "Repertoire" and "Cold Lasagne Hate Myself 1999
Known for: Deadpan, surreal yarns, and disastrous real-life mishaps
Podcast: Off Menu (co-hosted with Ed Gamble), hugely popular in the UK
Acaster’s fans love the way he doubles down on his weirdest bits, turning potential flops into punchlines. If you want to get a sense for what proper British oddball humour feels like these days, his style is where you start.
Acaster’s latest tour sold out faster than ever—people seem to connect with his off-kilter honesty and the way he takes small personal losses and turns them into the stuff of legend.
Jack Whitehall: Observational Comedy with a Posh Twist
Whitehall had an early start, and now he’s one of the UK’s most bankable comedy stars. His style is part posh-boy self-deprecation, part genuinely sharp observations on his own privileged upbringing.
Year | Major Tour Attendance | Netflix Specials |
|---|---|---|
2023 | 320,000 | 1 |
2024 | 375,000 | 1 |
2025 | 390,000 | 2 |
Live gigs are big, flashy, and loaded with energy
Jokes land because he’s willing to make himself look ridiculous
Worked with his dad, Michael Whitehall, on "Travels with My Father", pulling in international fans
He’s proof that observational material doesn’t have to be low-key. Whitehall’s stage confidence and posh accent never hide his fondness for being the butt of his own jokes.
Chris McCausland: Breaking Barriers in British Stand Up
Chris McCausland stands out, not just for his sharp material but also for the fact he’s the only major blind stand-up working at his level in the UK right now. Audiences have taken to him for his honesty and ability to blend observational material with real insight into his own experiences.
Regular panellist on shows like “Would I Lie To You?” and "Live at the Apollo"
Material about technology, family life, and awkward encounters
Used his platform to speak about disability in a relaxed, approachable way
His knack for explaining things others might shy away from has made him a favourite with comedy voters and critics alike, even earning him a nod among the top 10 British comedians to watch this year.
Paul Foot: Cult Favourite with Unparalleled Originality
Paul Foot can’t be mistaken for anyone else. His performances blend absurd logic, daft facial expressions, and a style of delivery that defies rules and structure. For a lot of fans, Foot’s act is pure, unfiltered inventiveness.
Here’s why he’s got a cult following:
Surreal, almost poetic rants
Audience interaction is unpredictable and hilarious
No two gigs are ever quite the same
His fans return again and again just to see what he’ll come up with next. There’s a freedom to his stand-up that’s missing from safer comedians, and in 2025, he’s scoring bigger venues than ever before.
These four show how broad modern British comedy can be, from popular mainstream acts to the eccentric and bizarre—and they’ve kept the live scene buzzing, even as streaming and social media pull comedy in all sorts of new directions.
Emerging Icons: Rising Stars Among British Stand Up Comedians
It’s a buzzing time for British comedy, with a fresh bunch of stand ups who aren’t just promising but already smashing it at clubs, on social media, and selling out shows. These comics are quickly shaping the future of what we laugh about in the UK. You’ll find them everywhere from city clubs to major festivals, and, honestly, some of these acts are already feeling like household names.
Paddy Young: Social Media Sensation and Fringe Hit
Paddy Young caught comedy fans off guard by storming Instagram with unique sketch content, including the delightfully absurd Afters videos. In addition to his millions of views online, he’s shown serious craft with his stageshows—his debut, 'Hungry, Horny, Scared,' was a highlight at the Fringe and attracted a ton of praise for combining sharp scripting with offbeat punchlines.
Over 8 million online views
BBC New Comedy Award finalist
Best Newcomer nomination at the Fringe
Young delivers that classic small-room magic while making a big noise on the national scene; if you see his name on a lineup, don’t hesitate.
Lindsey Santoro: Outrageous Brummie Fun
From Birmingham, Lindsey Santoro drags audiences through unfiltered, laugh-out-loud stories with a confident Brummie warmth. She’s built a following with shows that aren’t afraid to get a little wild, full of raucous giggles and relatable chaos. This year, her debut hour got a Best Newcomer nod at the Fringe, solidifying her reputation as an act you feel instantly comfortable with—even while she shocks you slightly with her punchlines. Lindsey is also a regular at famous comedy nights, like the budget-friendly gigs at the Camden Eye pub, which are known for championing up-and-comers and hidden gems.
What sets Santoro apart:
Earthy, rollicking storytelling
No-nonsense attitude on stage
Unpretentious, infectious crowd work
Adam Flood: High Energy and Surreal Observations
Adam Flood packs both an energetic performing style and brilliantly odd perspectives into his shows. Whether riffing on his bizarre CV—from indie band bassist to questionable tech bro—or spinning a quick crowd interaction, he’s got an infectious, giddy presence. After picking up a nomination for Most Outstanding Show at the Amused Moose Comedy Award, he’s getting noticed at much bigger venues. People who caught him at this year’s Fringe reckon every gig is like a Friday night party, rain or shine.
Key points:
Known for high energy and relatable chaos
Playful with the fourth wall, blending surreal and observational
Award-nominated shows getting packed crowds
Alexandra Haddow: Fringe Sell-Out and Sharp Banter
Alexandra Haddow walked out of the 2023 Fringe with every ticket sold for ‘Not My Finest Hour’ and some well-earned hype. With a style that’s cheeky, a bit risqué, and rapid-fire, she’s also supported giants like Frankie Boyle and Bill Bailey, which says plenty about her skills and reputation. Audiences love her mix of bold asides and honest, if sometimes blushing, stories. It’s no surprise Alexandra’s now a name popping up on the must-see lists across the country.
Quick facts about Alexandra:
Leicester Comedy Festival Best Debut Show nominee
Regular support for headline acts
Expert crowd work, clever storytelling
It’s the sort of group you want to catch now before they become impossible to see up close—if you’re lucky enough to have them tour through your area, grab a ticket. British stand up thrives on unexpected, unfiltered new voices, and these four are right at the heart of it.
Comedy Competitions and Award Winners Boosting New Talent
The UK stand-up scene isn’t just about those selling out arenas or hitting TV panel shows. Every year, competitions give new faces a real shot at growing their audience, and in 2025, things are just as fierce but way more exciting. Winning or even being a finalist in one of these showcases can totally transform a comic’s career.
Here’s a quick look at some of the brightest names emerging from the circuit, each carving out their own path thanks to trophies, certificates, or just plain guts:
Joshua Bethania: Chortle Award Nominee and BBC Standout
Joshua's journey has been sharp and fast—he started nabbing big spots just a couple of years in. He was a finalist in the BBC New Comedian Awards, won So You Think You’re Funny? in 2022, and landed a Chortle Comedy Awards best newcomer nomination in 2023. His mix of personal stories and sharp takes on immigrant life in the UK is getting him noticed all over. It’s not just about being funny, but about who’s got something real to say.
Riki Msindo: Student Comedy Winner and Podcast Host
If you love spotting comics just as they take off, Riki Msindo is the one to watch. Riki picked up the Chortle Student Comedy Award (past winners include Joe Lycett and Phil Wang), packing stories about his upbringing in both Zimbabwe and British private schools. He’s now getting into podcasting, proving he can make people laugh whether he’s onstage or just chatting into a mic. With a medical degree on the go, he’s genuinely multi-talented.
Frankie Monroe (Joe Kent-Walters): Character Comedy’s New Face
It’s not every day you see a comedian invent a grotesque, face-painted character who claims to run a supernatural working men’s club, but Joe Kent-Walters did just that with Frankie Monroe. After winning the Chortle Student Comedy Award as himself, Joe shifted gears for the BBC New Comedy Award and took the top spot in 2023 as Frankie. There’s nothing else like it on the scene right now, and he’s proof that taking a risk can really pay off.
Sallyann Fellowes: Neurodiverse Charm and Dark Humour
Sallyann Fellowes calls herself a misfit, and honestly, her sets are a joyful mess of neurodiverse observations, weird tangents, and dark jokes. She swept up both the Leicester Square Theatre New Comedian and the New Forest New Comedian of the Year in 2023, plus almost bagged the Southport title too. Sallyann’s act is about finding humour in all the odd corners of life, and it's connecting with a lot of us who feel like outsiders.
Major Comedy Competitions Shaping UK Talent (2024 - 2025)
Competition | 2024 Winner | 2024 Notable Finalist | 2025 Winner (so far) |
|---|---|---|---|
BBC New Comedy Award | Frankie Monroe | Chantel Nash | TBC |
Chortle Student Comedy Award | Riki Msindo | Kie Carson | TBA |
So You Think You’re Funny? | Joshua Bethania | Paddy Young | TBA |
Leicester Square Theatre New Comic | Sallyann Fellowes | Alexandra Haddow | TBA |
Competitions are often the first way industry bookers and TV producers find new comics.
Many previous winners have gone on to huge national (and sometimes global) careers.
Even a finalist spot can mean a packed diary at the Edinburgh Fringe the next year.
All it takes is one good routine in the right room, and suddenly everyone in British comedy knows your name. That’s why competitions matter so much—it’s not just about a title, it’s how the whole scene regenerates itself, year after year.
Innovative Styles Shaping the Future of British Stand Up
Comedy in the UK is changing shape right before our eyes, with performers exploring fresh styles and making space for new voices. Emerging comics aren’t just delivering punchlines—they’re putting parts of themselves on stage, bringing personal stories and clever twists to the microphone. It’s the mix of honesty, identity and experimentation that’s driving British stand up forward in 2025. So, who’s at the forefront of this innovation?
Kie Carson: Queer, Working Class Stories with Heart
Kie Carson brings a refreshingly open perspective to the scene, weaving tales about life as a queer, working-class person.
Audiences appreciate the balance between warmth and sharpness in each performance.
Carson’s comedy often flips expectations, speaking honestly about identity, money struggles, and family.
Sometimes the sharpest insights come wrapped in the unlikeliest stories—from a struggle to pay rent to a moment of unexpected joy on a night bus. Carson’s sets stick with you because they come from lived experience, not just a clever script.
Chantel Nash: Quick-Witted Breakthrough Performer
Chantel Nash is all about speed and spontaneity.
Known for bouncing off both audience and other comedians at gigs like those at the Camden Eye pub, her wit is immediate—she turns a room in her favour with a single comeback.
Nash has become a name to watch after making the finals at two top UK comedy contests.
Bulleted List: What Sets Chantel Nash Apart
Lightning-fast improv skills
Sharp, relatable punchlines
Fearless tackling of tough topics
Urooj Ashfaq: International Edge and Best Newcomer
With roots in India and now working across London and the festival circuit, Urooj Ashfaq brings a global flavour to British comedy.
Ashfaq’s material pokes fun at everyday cultural missteps, language mix-ups, and the chaos of adapting to new cities.
Her shows attract a noticeably diverse crowd, eager for comedy that jumps borders as easily as punchlines.
Raul Kohli: History Meets Stand Up
Raul Kohli takes things even further by blending history and stand up on stage.
Audiences come in for laughs and leave with stories about forgotten rebellions, odd monarchs and why today’s messes weirdly mirror the past.
His comedy is both educational and funny—without ever feeling like homework.
Here’s a little snapshot of how these comics are leading the way in 2025:
Comic | 2025 UK Shows | Festival Headliner Spots | Unique Style |
|---|---|---|---|
Kie Carson | 32 | 4 | Queer/work-class stories |
Chantel Nash | 28 | 3 | Rapid-fire wit |
Urooj Ashfaq | 22 | 2 | Global viewpoint |
Raul Kohli | 19 | 2 | Comic history lessons |
The next big thing in UK stand up probably isn’t going to sound—or look—like what you’re used to. These comedians are proving that being different isn’t just allowed; it’s actually what makes today’s comedy scene ring true.
Diverse Voices Redefining British Stand Up Comedians
British stand up has morphed into a comedy circuit that looks and feels different from even five years ago. More comics from every kind of background—race, gender, class, sexuality, neurodiversity—are grabbing the mic, and for many fans, this switch-up feels overdue. There’s never been a more exciting time to see what new voices are doing to British comedy. Let’s break it down by three big areas.
Women at the Forefront: Pascoe, Christie and More
Sara Pascoe is often the first name that comes to mind, always mixing sharp jokes with reflections on womanhood and the industry itself.
Bridget Christie crafts routines that stick the landing on politics and gender, but she’s definitely not alone—rising stars like Alexandra Haddow and Lindsey Santoro are selling out shows and keeping crowds roaring.
The circuit is also seeing more women headlining mainstream venues or running their own gigs, giving other fresh voices a place to be heard.
More women sharing the bill means wider-ranging stories and fewer tired old stereotypes—audiences are genuinely getting something different every time.
Black and Asian British Stand Up in 2025
British comedy now features comics with roots in Africa, the Caribbean, South Asia and beyond, and their sets break away from standard topics. For comics like Riki Msindo, Romesh Ranganathan, or distinctive voices such as Isma Almas, identity isn’t the punchline, but part of the story.
Here are some stand-out ways things are changing:
Comics are weaving in languages, heritage, and experiences not seen on telly a few years back.
Black British comics like Mo Gilligan and emerging talents have packed out arenas and TV specials.
South Asian and other British Asian comics are seeing more prime slots, not just on the line-up’s edge.
Comedy Addressing Neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ Themes
There’s been a shift in how comics talk about brains and sexuality. Sallyann Fellowes, for example, jokes openly about being neurodiverse and how baffling she finds the world. Kie Carson, an out and proud working-class comic, champions stories of queerness, especially those far from big-city stereotypes. It’s opened the door for audiences who felt left out—and for comedy built around honesty, not cliché.
Representation by Type (2025)
Group | Estimated Share of Club Headliners (%) |
|---|---|
Women | 28 |
Black/Asian/Minority | 24 |
LGBTQ+ | 20 |
Neurodiverse | 10 |
Working-class/Regional | 38 |
Suddenly, there’s room for comedians to be themselves without having to explain—or apologise—for it. British stand up is finally shaking up who gets a laugh, and why.
The Influence of British Stand Up Comedians on Global Stages
British stand-up comedy has stopped being just a local fix for a night out at your nearest pub. In 2025, comics from the UK are shaping global conversations and cracking up audiences in every time zone. Some credit international streaming services, but honestly, it's the adaptability and dry wit of these performers that’s allowed them to cross borders.
British Comedians Taking Over Netflix and Streaming
Let's be real—Netflix and streaming platforms have been a proper game-changer. Not only do they make it easier for fans everywhere to catch the latest stand-up shows, they’ve also flung British humour right into living rooms across the world. Chances are, if it’s on the recommended page, a UK comedian’s face will pop up at least once a week.
Here's a quick look at some UK stand-up specials topping Netflix charts in early 2025:
What’s interesting is how British stand-up comics mix old-school club material with sharp takes on current issues, and this recipe translates well no matter where you live. Some have even become regulars at events backed by initiatives like Get Off Live Comedy, which features line-ups that have conquered both TV and the world’s streaming platforms.
International Tour Successes and Festival Highlights
British comedians are not just Netflix celebs. They’re clocking serious air miles. From New York’s comedy cellars to major festivals in Sydney, they’re greeted by packed houses. In 2025, several UK comics have made headlines with their international tours.
Touring has become a rite of passage for stand-ups after their big streaming break. In fact, fans now expect these global runs, citing appeal like:
Wide-ranging topics—from British politics to sitcom-worthy family stories
Acclaimed improvisational skills and quick crowd work
Stand-up styles blending satire, surrealism, and storytelling
Comics like James Acaster and Bridget Christie have doubled their tour stops abroad, often selling out faster in Canada or Germany than in London. And don’t get me started on the buzz around the Edinburgh Fringe—it’s now peppered with international scouts.
Cultural Exchange: British Humour for Global Audiences
Earning laughs in another country is no easy win. Yet, British comedians have worked out how to adapt without ditching what makes them unique. They’ve found a knack for exploring universal themes—awkwardness, family, dodgy politics—and tweaking pop culture references for new crowds.
More UK acts are collaborating with comedians around the world
Co-hosted podcasts and streaming show crossovers are on the rise
Global comedy festivals now feature themed nights for British humour
Most Brits on the global stage don’t just export jokes—they invite everyone in on the laugh, no matter where they’re from. Audiences are picking up British slang, and at the same time, comics bring back wild stories and punchlines influenced by their travels.
In 2025, it feels like British stand-up is a passport as much as a profession. The worldwide appetite isn’t slowing down, either. As more streaming services spring up and festivals keep opening new doors, the laughter just keeps spreading wider.
Conclusion
So, that's the state of British stand-up in 2025. The old favourites are still packing out theatres and making us laugh till it hurts, but there’s a whole new wave of comics coming up who are just as sharp, weird, and quick on their feet. It’s honestly a great time to be a comedy fan in the UK. Whether you’re into the big names like Greg Davies and Sara Pascoe, or you’re more about catching someone new at a tiny club, there’s something for everyone. And with all these rising stars, you never know who’ll be headlining next year. If you’ve not been to a live show in a while, maybe now’s the time to grab a ticket and see what all the fuss is about. Laughter’s one thing we can all agree on, and right now, British comedy’s got plenty to go round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are some of the most famous British stand-up comedians in 2025?
Some of the top British stand-up comedians in 2025 include Greg Davies, Sara Pascoe, Romesh Ranganathan, James Acaster, and Bridget Christie. They are well-known for their unique styles and have made big impacts on the comedy scene.
Which new comedians should I watch out for this year?
Keep an eye on rising stars like Paddy Young, Lindsey Santoro, Adam Flood, and Alexandra Haddow. They have been getting lots of attention at festivals and online, showing lots of promise for the future.
How are comedy competitions helping new comedians?
Comedy competitions like the BBC New Comedy Award and Chortle Comedy Awards give new comedians a chance to perform in front of big crowds and judges. Winners and finalists often get noticed by agents and get more gigs, helping them build their careers.
What makes British stand-up comedy different from other countries?
British stand-up often mixes clever wordplay, dry humour, and jokes about everyday life. Many comedians use their own backgrounds and experiences, making their acts feel personal and relatable. There’s also a big focus on satire and poking fun at society and politics.
Are there more diverse voices in British comedy now?
Yes, the British comedy scene in 2025 is much more diverse. There are more women, people from different cultural backgrounds, and comedians who talk about topics like mental health and LGBTQ+ life. This makes the comedy richer and more interesting for everyone.
How can I see British comedians perform live or online?
You can catch British comedians at comedy clubs, festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe, and on streaming platforms such as Netflix or YouTube. Many comedians also share clips and shows on their social media pages, so you can watch them even if you can’t go to a show in person.