Comedy Bloomers has officially opened applications for the 2026 LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year competition, inviting aspiring and emerging LGBTQ+ stand-up comedians from across the UK to apply for the opportunity to perform, develop their careers and compete for a place in the Grand Final at The Comedy Store, London.
Now entering its fifth year, LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year continues to grow as one of the UK's leading platforms for discovering and championing emerging LGBTQ+ comedy talent. Previous finalists and winners have gone on to secure representation from comedy agents, perform at major comedy clubs and festivals, appear on television and radio, and build significant online audiences.
The competition's role in helping comedians access industry opportunities is particularly significant in light of Comedy Bloomers' recent UK-wide survey, which found that 76% of LGBTQ+ comedians identified a lack of industry connections as a barrier to career progression, while only 4% felt access to agents and managers was accessible. By connecting emerging performers with audiences, industry professionals and career development opportunities, LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year aims to help bridge that gap and support the next generation of LGBTQ+ comedy talent.
The competition welcomes comedians from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, whether they are taking their first steps into stand-up or are already building momentum on the circuit. Entrants will perform in front of live audiences and industry professionals, with successful acts progressing through heats and semi-finals before reaching the Grand Final.
The 2026 Grand Final will take place at The Comedy Store in November, one of the world's most iconic comedy venues, providing finalists with the opportunity to perform on a stage that has launched the careers of countless comedy stars.
The Grand Final will be professionally filmed and released on YouTube, giving finalists the opportunity to showcase their talent to a global audience. By making the competition freely accessible online, Comedy Bloomers aims to increase visibility for emerging LGBTQ+ comedians and help finalists reach audiences far beyond the live event.
The winner of LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2026 will receive a £1,000 cash prize.
Simon Mason, Comedy Store commented: "The Comedy Store has always been about discovering and championing outstanding comedians, and LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year has established itself as one of the UK's most exciting platforms for emerging talent. We're delighted to host the 2026 Grand Final and celebrate the next generation of LGBTQ+ comedy.
Comedy thrives when fresh voices are given the opportunity to be heard, and this competition continues to uncover exceptional performers from across the country. We can't wait to welcome the finalists to our stage in November and see who will be crowned this year's winner"
Chris Smith, Founder of Comedy Bloomers and LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year, said: "LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year was created to give talented LGBTQ+ comedians a platform to be seen, heard and celebrated. Every year we discover incredible performers with unique perspectives and stories, and it is inspiring to watch them develop throughout the competition.
Our recent survey highlighted that access to industry connections remains one of the biggest challenges facing LGBTQ+ comedians. That's why competitions like this matter. They provide opportunities for performers to gain experience, build audiences, meet industry professionals and, in some cases, secure representation that can help take their careers to the next level.
Whether you've been performing for a few years or have only recently started your stand-up journey, we would encourage anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+ and has a passion for comedy to apply. Subject to eligibility criteria, this competition could be your opportunity to take the next step in your comedy career. We can't wait to discover the next generation of LGBTQ+ comedy talent."
The competition has previously featured judges including leading comedians, broadcasters and LGBTQ+ personalities, while finalists have performed in front of packed audiences and gained valuable exposure within the industry. The finals judging panel lineup will be announced at a later date.
Applications are now open, with comedians encouraged to apply before entries close on 29 July 2026.
https://www.comedybloomers.com/competition2026
