Rising Stars: The Most Promising Young British Comedians to Watch in 2025

British comedy is rolling into 2025 with a whole new set of faces. These young British comedians are popping up everywhere – from viral TikTok clips to sold-out Fringe shows and even on TV. They’re shaking up the scene, bringing new ideas, and making people laugh in ways that feel fresh. If you’re after someone new to watch, these are the names you’ll want to remember. Let’s take a look at who’s making waves this year.

Key Takeaways

• Young British comedians are finding new audiences through both online platforms and live shows.

• The Edinburgh Fringe remains a top spot for discovering breakout comedy stars, with acts like Caroline McEvoy and Rohan Sharma getting noticed.

• Social media, especially TikTok, is helping comedians like Charley Marlowe build big followings before they even hit the stage.

• There’s a real mix of voices coming through, including queer, multicultural, and neurodivergent perspectives, making British comedy more varied than ever.

• More comedians are branching out beyond stand-up, appearing on podcasts, panel shows, and TV, which is helping them reach even more people.

Breakout Stars of the Edinburgh Fringe

For anyone who loves discovering comedians before they get huge, the Edinburgh Fringe is the place to be. This year, it feels like a handful of newcomers are getting everyone talking—some with deeply personal stories, others with the sort of weird, unfiltered energy that’s hard to forget. You could argue the only predictable thing about the Fringe is that you never really know who’ll surprise you most.

Caroline McEvoy's Stand-Up Debut

Caroline McEvoy steps into the spotlight with "Train Man", a stand-up hour exploring her fierce sibling rivalry in post-Troubles Northern Ireland. She doesn't just tell jokes: her comedy winds through complicated family histories, her autistic brother’s obsession with trains, and the pressure to find her own space in a loud, messy world. The show is packed with quick, unexpected laughs, and she balances heavy moments with a light delivery that keeps things from ever feeling too heavy. The ability to make you laugh and then, suddenly, feel a stab of recognition or empathy is her real secret weapon.

• Winner: Chortle Award, Comedy Bandits

• 3-time Funny Women Stage Awards nominee

• Widely tipped as the most promising new comic out of Belfast this year

At her debut, you get the sense that McEvoy isn’t just recounting her life—she’s picking it apart, joke by joke, letting us see the chaos and the beauty right up close.

Ada & Bron’s Absurd Character Comedy

If you’re looking for something totally unhinged, Ada & Bron’s late-night show should be top of your list. Their double act, "The Origin of Love", is a midsummer fever dream and part myth, part parody, and part total carnage. The show moves at breakneck speed through surreal characters, daft romantic misadventures, and even some physical comedy that risks terrifying the front row. What makes them so watchable is how they take huge risks—sometimes flopping, but always with a style that’s impossible to ignore. Their willingness to look ridiculous is matched only by their offbeat sincerity.

Key Features of "The Origin of Love":

• Patchwork of bizarre vignettes

• Outlandish physical humour

• Characters you want to root for, even when they’re complete disasters

Rohan Sharma’s Multimedia Odyssey

Rohan Sharma’s Fringe debut is already being called one of the cleverest shows of the year. His style blends fast-paced stand-up, sudden changes of tone, and multimedia—so expect screens, music, and a lot of well-rehearsed chaos on stage. Sharma’s material swings from surreal gags about his Indian-British upbringing to sharp critiques of British society (sometimes in the very same sentence). There’s an unpredictability to the way he weaves through memories and digital detours, sometimes mocking, sometimes surprisingly warm. Few comics can switch from slapstick to social commentary so fast, but Sharma seems to do it naturally.

What sets Rohan Sharma apart?

1. Ruthlessly sharp one-liners

2. Creative use of projections, sound, and visuals

3. Stories where you think you know the punchline, only for him to twist it at the last second

Comedian	Debut Show	Unique Hook
Caroline McEvoy	Train Man	Sibling rivalry, heartfelt gags
Ada & Bron	The Origin of Love	Absurd character sketches, chaos
Rohan Sharma	Mad Dog	Multimedia stand-up, quick pivots

No one can say what will happen once these comics leave the wild energy of Edinburgh and face the wider world. For now, they’re the names everyone is arguing about in the queue for late-night chips.

TikTok Sensations Making the Leap to Live Comedy

TikTok’s grip on young comedy fans isn’t loosening any time soon. Some of Britain’s most exciting new comedians have traded their phone screens for stage lights, and the results have been surprising – in the best way.

Charley Marlowe’s Viral Rise

Charley Marlowe spent the past couple of years going from posting sketches in her childhood bedroom to showing up on BBC red carpets and scoring spots as a narrator on major TV shows. Her quick edits, razor-sharp observations, and unfiltered honesty have racked up millions of views and an audience that follows her everywhere. Marlowe’s move into live comedy surprised some, but she’s proved her material isn’t just for scrolling past – her on-stage delivery is sharp, and the observations land even harder in person. Fans and critics expect her to become a regular fixture in line-ups right through 2025 and beyond.

Discovering New Audiences Online

What sets these TikTok comics apart is how they’ve managed to build huge, loyal audiences before setting foot on stage. Instead of fighting for a five-minute open-mic slot, comedians can now connect directly with thousands – or millions – of viewers every week. Here’s a look at how TikTok stacks up when it comes to launching British comedy careers, compared to more traditional routes:

Platform	Average Follower Base	Typical "Discovery" Time	Opportunities for Live Gigs
TikTok	300k+	6 months	High
Local Clubs	500-2,000	2-3 years	Moderate
TV Showcase	10k-50k	1-2 years	High

For more options on growing an audience and picking the right platforms, have a look at these best online platforms for comedians.

Transitioning from Social Media to the Stage

Making people laugh online is one thing—doing it in front of a live, slightly unpredictable audience is another. The transition isn’t easy, but it can pay off quickly if you know what you’re doing. Here’s how many TikTok comedians are making it work:

• Adapting the best viral bits into longer, story-driven routines

• Managing hecklers and audience reactions, which don’t come with a comment filter

• Learning timing, as stage laughter is very different from likes and shares

Getting laughs on TikTok feels great, but you can’t beat the instant buzz of a live crowd—when a whole room erupts, it’s proof your material works anywhere.

2025 is looking to be a massive year for British TikTok comics willing to chase that thrill—and the stamp of success that only comes with standing under the spotlight.

Diversifying British Comedy in 2025

It feels like comedy in Britain is actually starting to look and sound more like the country itself. Stages are more open to different voices, and it’s showing—both in the kinds of stories told and in who’s telling them. Here’s a closer look at some of the comedians pushing British comedy forward this year.

Queer Perspectives With Steffan Alun

Steffan Alun’s material isn’t just about punchlines—it’s about honesty and connection, especially when it comes to sharing his own queer experience. Rather than sticking to old stereotypes, Steffan talks about day-to-day moments: weird family holidays, clumsy first dates, and the tiny misunderstandings that come with being Welsh and gay.

• He intertwines Welsh culture and LGBTQ+ topics, making them relatable to anyone.

• His shows often finish with a sense that, actually, everybody feels out of place sometimes.

• Alun’s grassroots gigs sometimes feel more like group therapy—you laugh, but you think too.

Sometimes the bravest thing in comedy is dropping the act and letting the real you onto the stage. Alun is doing just that, and audiences seem eager for it.

Rohan Sharma’s Multicultural Storytelling

Rohan Sharma’s sets jump from Bollywood to Birmingham in a heartbeat. His background gives him loads of funny angles—awkward family traditions, culture clashes at school, dodgy curries. But Sharma goes further than just poking fun at stereotypes; he also unpacks what it means to be British and South Asian today.

He’s not afraid to explore topics like identity, immigration, and generational divides, all with a killer sense of humour.

Topic	Audience Reaction	Number of Sold-Out Shows (2025)
Food & Family	Laughter + Nod	12
Culture Clash	Strong Applause	10
Immigration Stories	Thoughtful Quiet	8

For more on how the comedy scene has shifted, take a peek at this overview of comedy’s expanding diversity.

The Emergence of Neurodivergent Voices

This year, audiences are seeing more performers openly discussing neurodivergence—ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and beyond. What was once whispered about is now a source of strong, sometimes chaotic, super-funny stand-up. If you’ve ever felt like your brain was working against you, these comics will make you laugh in recognition.

Here’s why this shift is important:

• It challenges the idea that comics have to fit one mould.

• Bits about mental health blunders get real, raucous laughs, not sympathy.

• Performers are helping to erase stigma with humour, honesty, and the odd overshare.

This cross-section of talent is proof that in 2025, British comedy’s pulse has never been stronger—or more varied.

Scottish Comedy’s Freshest Talent

Scottish comedy is on a bit of a roll in 2025. Across venues big and small, there’s a wave of comics creating work that feels new, a bit strange at times, and surprisingly honest. The scene isn’t just about kilts and Braveheart bits anymore — it’s sharp, playful, and full of voices you won’t hear anywhere else.

Fern Brady’s Acclaimed Netflix Special

Fern Brady’s latest special, filmed in Glasgow, shows what happens when Scottish sharpness gets global attention. Her comedy weaves candid personal stories with deadpan punchlines that hit hard, especially when she talks about class and identity. It’s become a massive talking point, with many calling it the year’s must-watch comedy event. Brady’s knack for blending blunt comedy with real life makes her a stand-out, and this special has only boosted her already growing profile.

Steffan Alun’s Welsh Stand-Up

While Steffan Alun is proudly Welsh, he’s ended up something of a favourite across Scottish clubs this year. His mix of dry humour, daft observations, and jokes about identity struck a chord, especially with Scottish crowds who love a bit of self-deprecation. His new hour covers neurodivergence, queerness, and what it’s like being the only Welshman in a sea of accents — all with the kind of cheeky warmth that makes you want to see him again.

• Witty reflections on Welshness and identity

• Stories about growing up neurodivergent

• Honest, inclusive comedy that doesn’t talk down to anyone

New Scottish Voices on the Circuit

There’s no shortage of up-and-comers lighting up open mics and festival showcases. In fact, here’s a quick look at some names people are buzzing about:

Comedian	Notable Show	Venue
Isla McIntyre	"Broad Street"	Stand Comedy Club
Yusuf Din	"Stolen Curry"	Monkey Barrel
Moira Findlay	"Gran’s Ashes"	Gilded Balloon

Each brings something different: Isla turns small-town awkwardness into big laughs, Yusuf’s stories mix Scottish banter with family tales, and Moira’s dark wit gets the loudest groans and giggles. It’s an exciting time.

Scottish comedy keeps moving forward, unafraid of new ideas or awkward truths. The next wave of comics is proving you don’t need to imitate anyone to make people laugh—just speaking honestly about your own world is more than enough.

Podcasts and Panels: Young British Comedians Expanding Their Reach

Podcasts have become a way for young comedians in the UK to build loyal followings outside the usual comedy venues. Many of them host shows that mix interviews, sketches, and just friends having a laugh. In 2025, the scene is buzzing more than ever, with fresh podcasts topping streaming charts and even turning their leads into minor celebrities. Here’s a quick look at how podcasts are making an impact:

Podcast Name	Hosts	Weekly Downloads
Mad Dog Audio	Rohan Sharma	52,000
Girls Don’t Gag	Caroline McEvoy	44,500
Chaos Club with Ada & Bron	Ada & Bron	33,800
Steffan Says	Steffan Alun	24,200
Scottish Banter Show	Fern Brady	47,000

Comedians on Panel Shows and Radio

Getting regular spots on radio or a seat on a panel show is still a big deal for comics. It gets their voices into people’s living rooms and cars. In 2025, more under-30s are getting invitations to classic BBC panels and newer streaming experiments.

• Panel shows offer a proving ground for quick wit and improvisation.

• Podcasts are now even being adapted into radio specials, giving talented hosts extra airtime.

• Even short guest slots can lead to increased ticket sales for live gigs.

Younger comedians are using radio panels not just to get laughs, but to test material and build a name fast, even before they’ve toured major venues.

Building a Brand Beyond Stand-Up

These days, simply hitting the open mic circuit is not enough. The most successful young comics work hard on their presence, both online and off. Here are some ways they’re growing their brand:

1. Launching their own podcasts, often self-produced on a budget, reaching thousands each week.

2. Regular appearances on panel shows, radio, or as guests on bigger comedy podcasts.

3. Collaborating with other comedians for live podcast tapings, panel events, and pop-up festivals.

All in all, podcasts and panels are a launchpad. For up-and-coming British comics, these platforms are as important as the clubs themselves, creating dedicated fan bases and opening up chances for bigger projects. If you’re looking for the next household name in British comedy, chances are you’ll hear their voice before you see them on TV.

Female Comedians Challenging the Status Quo

British comedy in 2025 is bolder—and, frankly, funnier—thanks to a new wave of sharp, fearless women smashing old stereotypes. These comedians aren’t just fighting for a spot on the line-up; they’re bringing new formats, stories, and voices centre stage. Whether it's clever one-liners, wild creativity, or running their own nights, they're shifting what audiences expect from live entertainment.

Caroline McEvoy’s Award-Winning Comedy Night

Caroline McEvoy isn’t waiting for permission. Her monthly night in Manchester just picked up a national award, which isn’t surprising. She’s got a knack for finding fresh, magnetic acts (including herself) and makes her club a genuinely welcoming space for women, queer performers, and anyone who loves a good laugh.

• Regularly books first-time stand-ups alongside circuit veterans.

• Tackles awkward issues head-on with self-deprecating stories and awkward charm.

• Audience numbers have doubled over the past year, outgrowing its original venue.

Year	Audience Size (avg)	Playing Venue
2023	40	The Cheeky Pint (back room)
2024	75	The Cheeky Pint (main hall)
2025	110	Old Chapel Theatre

When comedy breaks down barriers, the whole room feels lighter—and isn't that the point?

Ada & Bron’s Unconventional Double Act

Ada & Bron didn’t set out to reinvent the double-act—it's just the only way they know how to work. Their skits have a weird rhythm: sometimes slapstick, sometimes monologue, always unpredictable. For them, pushing the status quo means never apologising for being "too much" on stage. It's physical, it's cringey, it's oddly moving, and it's attracting a loyal crowd. Some nights, you’ll laugh so hard it hurts, and some nights it’s chaos.

They consistently challenge:

• What counts as "mainstream" comedy.

• Who gets to command a stage—their act is proudly messy and unfiltered.

• The expectation that women must be likable, neat, or reserved.

Fern Brady’s Trailblazing Perspective

You can’t talk about British comedy’s new shape without mentioning Fern Brady. Fresh off her Netflix special, Fern’s outlook is (still) sharp, blunt, and absolutely original.

• The first Scottish woman in years to headline a global streaming special.

• Candid about topics people avoid, from social class to mental health.

• Praised for writing that’s both witty and no-nonsense, she’s got critics and fans talking in equal measure.

You’ll find Fern's influence in the newer generation that pushes for honest, messy, real stories—especially those that don’t often get airtime. For more on how British comedy is opening up to different identities, check out what Sam Nicoresti brings to the scene, especially around trans visibility.

What we’re seeing now isn't just a trend, but a sign that comedy feels more honest—and maybe, finally, the industry is catching up with what audiences actually want.

Ones To Watch on British Television

The next wave of British comedy is popping up all over the box in 2025. As streaming, social, and mainstream channels clamour for fresh faces, young comedians are threading their voice into talk shows, original series, and panel gigs. Their unfiltered outlooks and unique humour are giving British TV its sharpest edge in years.

Charley Marlowe on BBC and Beyond

Fresh off the wild ride that social media handed her, Charley Marlowe is now making her mark on mainstream TV. She first got noticed for her off-the-cuff interviews on red carpets—especially at events like the TV Baftas—where she simply cut through the usual small talk and made things genuinely funny. After narrating the BBC’s latest dating show, Marlowe’s name is suddenly on everyone’s lips in development meetings across London. Expect:

• Irreverent behind-the-scenes specials

• Guest spots on panel shows and chat shows

• A new late-night project in discussion

There’s a good buzz that Charley could anchor a new sketch series or even host her own talk show by the end of 2025. Either way, TV comedy feels a bit less predictable now she’s in the mix.

Fern Brady’s Television Takeover

This year, Fern Brady is everywhere. After her stand-up special hit Netflix, she popped up on favourites like The Last Leg and Live at the Apollo. But it’s her knack for sharing her real story—the challenges around her autism diagnosis, her Scottish roots, and all the messiness in between—that’s winning her TV roles beyond just comedy slots. She’s:

• Pitched scripts for scripted comedies and autobiographical dramas

• Frequently seen as a panelist on quiz and current affairs shows

• Bringing her wit to documentary work

Look at her career so far—she wrote for Fest Magazine, then became a stand-up herself, and now dominates comedy podcasts. It’s no wonder broadcasters are keen to see what she does next.

Rising Talent Gracing Panel and Variety Shows

2025’s British panel shows feel refreshed with so many new faces. It’s gone beyond the usual bookings—now, producers are pulling in:

• Comedians with viral sketches from TikTok and Instagram

• Winners and finalists of major comedy festivals

• Performers with backgrounds as musicians, podcasters, and even former dancers like Sharifa Butterfly

Here’s a quick look at young comedians and their TV appearances so far this year:

Name	Most Recent TV Appearance	Notable Feature
Charley Marlowe	Narrator, BBC’s I Kissed A Girl	Red carpet viral hits
Fern Brady	The Last Leg	Netflix special
Sharifa Butterfly	Panel Guest, Comedy Now	Dance-comedy fusion

• We’re seeing a steady overlap between digital content creators and classic TV formats

• Roundtable quiz and comedy panel shows are adding both diversity and younger energy

• Long-running shows are booking more first-timers to keep things unpredictable

The feeling is clear – Britain’s comedy on TV in 2025 is anything but old-fashioned. From sketch pilots to podcast-to-series spin-offs, the freshest acts are not just passing through—they’re here to shake things up.

Wrapping Up: The Future Looks Bright for British Comedy

So, there you have it – a bunch of new faces and a few familiar ones, all set to make us laugh in 2025. It’s honestly a great time to be a fan of British comedy. Whether you’re into sharp one-liners, weird and wonderful stories, or just want to see someone absolutely lose it on stage, there’s something for everyone. These comedians are popping up everywhere – on TV, at the Fringe, and all over social media. Who knows, maybe your next favourite comic is just about to break through. Keep an eye out, grab some tickets if you can, and don’t be surprised if you see these names everywhere soon. British comedy isn’t slowing down any time soon, and honestly, I can’t wait to see what these rising stars do next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are some new British comedians to watch in 2025?

Some of the most exciting young British comedians to watch in 2025 include Caroline McEvoy, Ada & Bron, Rohan Sharma, Charley Marlowe, Steffan Alun, and Fern Brady. They are making waves with their fresh styles and funny stories.

How are comedians using TikTok to become famous?

Many comedians are sharing short, funny videos on TikTok, which helps them reach a huge audience quickly. When people enjoy their videos, they often go to see these comedians perform live, helping them grow even more popular.

What makes the Edinburgh Fringe Festival important for new comedians?

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the biggest arts festival in the world. It gives new comedians a chance to perform in front of large crowds, get noticed by talent scouts, and even win awards. Many famous comedians started their careers at the Fringe.

How is British comedy becoming more diverse in 2025?

British comedy is changing by including more voices from different backgrounds. This means more comedians who are women, LGBTQ+, people from different cultures, and those who are neurodivergent are sharing their stories and jokes on stage.

Are there any female comedians breaking new ground in 2025?

Yes, comedians like Caroline McEvoy, Ada & Bron, and Fern Brady are challenging old ideas and showing that women can be just as funny and bold as anyone else. They are leading comedy nights and starring in popular shows.

How can I watch these rising comedians on TV or online?

You can find these comedians on TV shows, panel shows, and even on streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Many also have podcasts or post clips on social media, so you can enjoy their comedy from anywhere.