The Funniest LGBTQ Comedians Of 2024, Ranked
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Vote on the comedians based on their recent specials and performances.
When it comes to the funniest LGBTQ comedians in 2024, the comedy scene is brimming with talent that’s both hilarious and groundbreaking. These comedians not only make us laugh but also bring fresh perspectives, addressing everything from everyday life to important social issues through the lens of humor.
Take Matteo Lane, for instance. His quick wit and charming delivery have made him a favorite on the stand-up circuit and beyond. Kate McKinnon continues to dominate with her exceptional skills in sketch comedy, particularly on Saturday Night Live, where her characters never fail to steal the show. Mae Martin's blend of sharp observational comedy and heartfelt storytelling has earned them a devoted following, especially after their acclaimed role in Feel Good.
Now, it’s time for you to weigh in on who makes you laugh the hardest. Whether you love sharp one-liners, clever impressions, or captivating stories, vote up your favorites and see which comedians rise to the top of the list. Your votes will help highlight the top LGBTQ comedic voices making waves in 2024.
Most divisive: Caleb Hearon
Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Funniest LGBTQ Comedians Of 2024, Ranked
- 1
Matteo Lane
Matteo Lane was raised in Illinois and began singing at age 15. At that time, his genre of choice was opera. He also spent his time painting and drawing. In 2011 he began his comedy career performing at open mics and was featured at the Montreal Just for Laughs festival in 2014. This led him to be cast In "Joking Off" and "Ladylike" (MTV, 2016). Lane also performed in "Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration" (Netflix, 2022) and was cast in "Magical Girl Friendship Squad'' (Syfy, 2020). More recently Lane had roles in "Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution" (Netflix, 2022) and "Molli and Max in the Future'' (2024). - Wanda Sykes, born on March 7, 1964, in Portsmouth, Virginia, is a renowned figure in the American entertainment industry. She is best recognized for her distinctive voice and her unique, straightforward comedic style that often tackles social issues. Growing up in Maryland, she graduated from Hampton University with a degree in Marketing before starting her career in the National Security Agency (NSA). However, her passion for comedy made her divert her path towards stand-up routines in local clubs around Washington D.C. After gaining popularity as a stand-up comedian, Sykes transitioned to television and film. In 1997, she joined the writing team of the popular TV show The Chris Rock Show, earning an Emmy Award for her work. Her talent for writing was matched by her on-screen presence, which she demonstrated through appearances on shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm and The New Adventures of Old Christine. Notably, Sykes also voiced characters in several animated films such as Over the Hedge and Ice Age: Continental Drift. Sykes has consistently used comedy as a platform to vocalize societal issues and personal experiences. In 2008, she publicly announced she was a lesbian at a same-sex marriage rally in Las Vegas. Since then, she has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. As a result of her groundbreaking work in various areas of entertainment and her activism, Sykes has been honored with multiple awards, including a GLAAD Media Award.
- Kathryn McKinnon Berthold (born January 6, 1984) is an American actress, comedian, and musician widely known as a regular cast member on The Big Gay Sketch Show (2007–2010) and Saturday Night Live (2012–present). She is also known for her film roles as Dr. Jillian Holtzmann in the supernatural comedy Ghostbusters (2016), Mary Winetoss in the comedy Office Christmas Party (2016), Pippa in the comedy Rough Night (2017), and Morgan in the action comedy The Spy Who Dumped Me (2018). McKinnon is known for her character work and celebrity impressions of pop singer Justin Bieber, comedian television host Ellen DeGeneres, and numerous political figures, including Hillary Clinton, US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Senator Lindsey Graham, Kellyanne Conway, and Robert Mueller. She has been nominated for seven Primetime Emmy Awards, including one for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics and six for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, winning in 2016 and 2017.The Best Kate McKinnon MoviesSee all
- 1Yesterday9 Votes
- 2Office Christmas Party24 Votes
- 3Sisters34 Votes
- Mae Martin is a Canadian performer, producer, and writer who appeared in "LOL: Last One Laughing Canada," and "Feel Good."
- Margaret Cho, a name synonymous with bold comedy and unapologetic advocacy, is an iconic American stand-up comedian, actress, fashion designer, author, and singer-songwriter. Born on December 5, 1968, in San Francisco, California, she was raised in a culturally rich environment, which later became a significant influence on her comedic style. The daughter of Korean immigrants, Cho grew up in a diverse neighborhood that embraced multiple cultures, a theme that consistently threads through her work. Cho's career breakthrough came in the early 1990s when she won a comedy contest where first prize was opening for Jerry Seinfeld. This propelled her into the limelight, leading to TV appearances and eventually her own sitcom called All-American Girl in 1994. Despite its short run, Cho broke barriers as the first Asian American woman to star in a prime-time comedy. Never one to shy away from difficult topics, she has built her comedic repertoire around issues like social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial stereotypes, creating a unique niche in the entertainment industry. In addition to her thriving comedy career, Cho has excelled in several other artistic disciplines. She has written two books, I'm the One That I Want and I Have Chosen to Stay and Fight, both showcasing her sharp wit and candid observations on life. As a singer-songwriter, she released her Grammy-nominated debut album Cho Dependent in 2010. Her passion for fashion led her to launch a clothing line for plus-size women named "High Class Cho." Throughout her multifaceted career, Margaret Cho has consistently championed individuality, diversity, and self-acceptance, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
- Jane Lynch, an acclaimed actress, comedian, and author, is known for her diverse roles in both television and film. Born on July 14, 1960, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, she developed an affinity for acting at a young age. Lynch's journey to stardom was not straightforward; after graduating from Illinois State University and later earning a Master's degree in Theater from Cornell University, she spent many years honing her craft in various theater productions and comedy troupes. Lynch has etched her name in the annals of entertainment history through her portrayal of Sue Sylvester in Fox's musical comedy series Glee. This role brought her widespread recognition and earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award. Her other notable television appearances include roles in series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Criminal Minds. Lynch's talent isn't confined within the small screen, as her filmography boasts of critically acclaimed movies such as Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and The 40-Year-Old Virgin. Apart from her acting pursuits, Lynch has made significant contributions as an author. She has penned down her memoir Happy Accidents, which delves into her personal life and struggles with alcoholism and sexuality, providing an introspective look at her journey. She is also recognized for her humanitarian efforts, especially for LGBTQ+ rights. A boisterous personality, Jane Lynch's impact extends beyond the realm of entertainment, making her a pivotal figure in contemporary culture.
- Mathilde "Tig" O'Callaghan Notaro (born March 24, 1971) is an American stand-up comic, writer, radio contributor, and actress. She is known for her deadpan comedy. Her acclaimed album Live was nominated in 2014 for the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards. The special Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted was nominated in 2016 at the 68th Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special. In 2017, the album of Boyish Girl Interrupted was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards.
- Hannah Gadsby went from relative obscurity to turning the comedy world on its ear with fiercely personal monologues. A native of Smithton on the island of Tasmania, off the coast of Australia, Gadsby graduated from the Australian National University with a degree in Art History before moving into comedy. They first began to garner attention in their home country after winning the annual Raw Comedy competition for new comedians at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2006. Gadsby's comedy frequently played off of their experiences as a lesbian, as well as poking fun at their choice of college major. That led to national television appearances performing stand-up and a small role on the Australian sitcom "The Librarians" (ABC-TV, 2007-10). Gadsby became a fixture on the talk show "Adam Hills Tonight" (ABC-TV, 2011-13), playing off of the host and fellow comedian Dave O'Neil. They continued making stand-up appearances, including filming a pair of specials for "Warehouse Comedy Festival" (ABC-TV, 2011-13). They also contributed to the docuseries "Agony" (ABC1, 2012-15), and hosted three specials under the title of "Hannah Gadsby's Oz" (ABC-TV, 2014), focusing on art. After a recurring role on the crime drama "Underbelly" (Nine Network, 2008-13), they became a regular on the dramedy "Please Like Me" (ABC-TV, 2013-16). The show focused on a gay man (Josh Thomas) who had recently come out of the closet, with Gadsby playing a character struggling with depression. They exploded onto the international scene with their comedy special "Nanette" (Netflix, 2018). Starting as a traditional stand-up set, Gadsby turned the show into a raw, emotional look at personal struggles as a lesbian trying to use comedy as a way of coping with numerous challenges. That led to a round of appearances on American late-night television and a memorable turn as a presenter at the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards (2018). Gadsby also returned to the art world with the two-part documentary "Hannah Gadsby's Nakedy Nudes" (ABC-TV, 2018) and authored the memoir "Ten Steps to Nanette" (Ballantine, 2019).
- Bowen Yang is an actor, writer, and producer who is best known for his role in "Saturday Night Live." Yang was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in 2024 for the same project.
- Fortune Feimster, born July 1, 1980, in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a celebrated comedian, actor, and writer known for her sharp wit and relatable humor. Feimster gained national attention as a semi-finalist on NBC's "Last Comic Standing" (2010), showcasing her comedic talent and earning a loyal fan base. She became a regular panelist on E!'s "Chelsea Lately" (2013-2014) and subsequently joined "The Mindy Project" (Hulu, 2015-2017) as Colette Kimball-Kinney, a fan-favorite character that highlighted her comedic and acting abilities. Feimster has also appeared in popular television shows like "Nailed It!" (Netflix, 2018-) and "Sugar Rush" (Netflix, 2018). Her film credits include roles in "Office Christmas Party" (2016), "Yes Day" (2021), and "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar" (2021). Additionally, she lent her voice to animated series such as "Madagascar: A Little Wild" (2020-2022) and "Velma" (HBO Max, 2023). As a stand-up comedian, Feimster has released highly acclaimed specials, including "Sweet & Salty" (Netflix, 2020), where she humorously reflects on her Southern upbringing and personal experiences. Recently, she has been touring internationally, continuing to captivate audiences with her humor and authenticity.
- Born and raised in England, Suzy Eddie Izzard is an actress, writer, and political activist. She took her early steps into comedy during her years at the University of Sheffield, ultimately turning her passion into a successful profession. Izzard's comedic style, characterized by rambling, whimsical monologue, and self-referential pantomime, has made her a unique figure in comedy. The 1990s marked a significant period in her career when she performed stand-up routines in the United States, earning an Emmy Award for her performance in "Dress to Kill." However, her talents extended beyond comedy; Izzard showcased her acting prowess in both television and film. Notable roles include her appearances in The Riches, for which she received a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award, and Ocean's Twelve. In addition to her flourishing entertainment career, Izzard has significantly contributed to political activism. As an openly transgender woman, she frequently uses her platform to promote and support LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for greater acceptance and understanding. Furthermore, she has shown a keen interest in European politics and has made several attempts to clinch a seat in the UK Parliament. Suzy Eddie Izzard, with her myriad of achievements, continues to inspire many through her relentless pursuit of excellence and her steadfast commitment to societal change.
- Nicole Byer (born August 29, 1986) is an American comedian, actress, television host, podcaster, and author. She is known as the host of the Netflix comedic reality bake-off series Nailed It! (2018–present), for which she received two Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Byer is the host of the podcast Why Won't You Date Me?, the Earwolf podcast Best Friends, and the Headgum podcast Newcomers.
- Gina Yashere is an actress, producer, and writer who appeared in "Bob ❤ Abishola," "Early Man," and "Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution."
- Christopher Delmar Caldwell (June 22, 1986) known by his stage name Caldwell Tidicue, better known as Bob the Drag Queen, is an American drag queen, comedian, actor, activist, musician, and reality television personality. He is best known for winning the eighth season of RuPaul's Drag Race. After Drag Race, he pursued acting, appearing in television shows such as High Maintenance (2016), Tales of the City (2019), and A Black Lady Sketch Show (2019).
- Patti Harrison (born October 31, 1990) is a Vietnamese-American actress and comedian. She is best known for her roles in comedy series such as Shrill (2019–2021) and I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson (2019–present), as well as the comedy film Together Together (2021), with the latter earning her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.
- Simon Marc Amstell (born 29 November 1979) is a British comedian and television presenter. He wrote and directed the films Carnage (2017) and Benjamin (2018). His work on television has included presenting Popworld and Never Mind the Buzzcocks.
- Joe Lycett is a British actor, writer, and producer who has appeared in his role in "Late Night Lycett." Lycett won a BAFTA Television Award in 2024 for the same project.
- Jennifer Brister (born February 1975) is a British stand-up comedian, writer and actor from South West London.
- Tim J. Dillon (born January 22, 1985) is an American stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor.
- Suzi Ruffell (born 18 January 1986) is a British comedian, writer, and actress.
- As one of the creators, writers and breakout stars of the hit comedy series, "Broad City" (Comedy Central 2014-), Abbi Jacobson was part of a new generation of female comedy writers and performers who found success through their own creations. Along with her writing partner Ilana Glazer, the duo parlayed their 20-something experiences of being young, single and broke in New York City into a web series-turned-cable-comedy. Despite following other female-driven shows about singles in the big city, the series succeeds thanks to the duo's crackling onscreen chemistry and the outrageous yet rooted in reality story lines. Abbi Jacobson was born on Feb 1, 1985 in the Philadelphia suburb of Wayne, Pennsylvania. While in high school, she briefly dabbled in acting, taking Saturday classes at the Walnut Street Theatre and the Actor's Center in Philadelphia, but it was the visual arts that would be her first creative pursuit. She left her home state to attend the Maryland Institute College of Art, where she pursued a degree in fine arts and a minor in video, the latter of which would soon overshadow her art career. After graduating in 2006, Jacobson made the move to New York City to try her hand at dramatic acting, but quickly discovered that comedy was more her forte, after she learned about the comedy incubator Upright Citizens Brigade. Jacobson found her comedic voice in improv and sketch and trained with the Atlantic Acting Conservatory and the Magnet Theater in addition to the UCB. It was there that Abbi met her future writing partner, Ilana Glazer, when the two bonded as the only women in their improv group. What followed was the typical grind for struggling creatives. Their mindless and varied day jobs to pay the bills would become future plotlines of their comedy projects. After relentless auditioning, Jacobson still couldn't get a commercial agent, so she and Glazer decided the only way to break into the business was to create their own material. In 2009, they started a scripted web series based on their friendship called Broad City. With the help of their UCB friends, the crudely produced show eventually blossomed into an online hit. By 2011, the duo was finishing up their second season and had a pilot they were looking to shop around. In their pursuit to end the show's season with a bang, they asked one of their UCB teachers to see if UCB founder and one of its most famous alumni, Amy Poehler, would be a guest star on the show. Much to their surprise, Poehler said yes and even signed on to become the executive producer of the TV series. With a big name attached to the project, Jacobson and Glazer quit their jobs and flew to Los Angeles to pitch the series as a television show. While FX had originally taken interest, they eventually passed on the pilot until Comedy Central took up the reins and ordered ten episodes, which aired in 2014. Drawing heavily from their own experiences, the characters were based on exaggerated versions of themselves. With a strong background in improv, the two actresses played off each other in a loose form akin to "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO 2000-2011). Despite drawing strong comparisons to "Girls" (HBO 2012-) - another show about millennials figuring things out in New York City - the show steered away from drama and over-analysis and stuck to the brash and absurd. The series featured a mix of big name comic talent like Amy Poehler, Fred Armisen, Amy Sedaris, Jason Mantzoukas, Janeane Garofalo, Rachel Dratch and locals from the New York comic community. Jacobson's TV debut turned out to be an impressionable one, and the series was renewed for a second season. In addition to her comedy career, she was also a talented visual artist and illustrated two coloring books for Chronicle Books in 2013, as well as the illustrated humor book Carry This Book (2016), which reached the New York Times bestseller list. Continuing her re-engagement with her fine arts background, Jacobson began the podcast "A Piece of Work" in collaboration with the Museum of Modern Art and WNYC in 2017, in which she and her guests discussed various aspects and particular works of modern art. Also during this period, Jacobson appeared in a small role in comedy sequel "Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising" (2016) before co-starring in indie drama "Person to Person" (2017) and animated comedy "The Lego Ninjago Movie" (2017). Continuing in animation, Jacobson collaborated with Matt Groening on adult-oriented cartoon "Disenchantment" (Netflix 2018- ), the story of an alcoholic fairy princess. In the fall of 2018, Jacobson published her second book, a collection of essays entitled I Might Regret This, written during a three-week cross-country road trip in 2017, following the breakup of her first serious relationship with another woman.
- Rothaniel Jerrod Carmichael (born April 6, 1987) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and filmmaker. He has released three stand-up comedy specials on HBO: Love at the Store (2014), 8 (2017), and Rothaniel (2022). He also co-created, co-wrote, produced, and starred in the semiautobiographical NBC sitcom The Carmichael Show (2015–2017).
- Guy Branum (born November 12, 1975) is an American comedian, writer, and actor best known as the head writer of, and a sketch performer on, X-Play on the G4 network and as a regular panelist on Chelsea Lately on the E! network. He used to host the podcast Pop Rocket on the Maximum Fun network, and hosted TruTV's Talk Show the Game Show.
- Joel Kim Booster (born Kim Joonmin; February 29, 1988) is an South Korean-American actor, comedian, producer, and writer. He co-produced and wrote for Big Mouth and The Other Two and as an actor has appeared on Shrill, Search Party, and Sunnyside. In 2022, he wrote, produced, and starred in the Hulu romantic comedy Fire Island, a modern adaptation of Pride and Prejudice with a main cast of Asian American actors.
- Todd Glass was an accomplished actor, noted for his comedic timing in his roles for television shows. His career began with roles in "Married... With Children" (1986-1997), "Home Improvement" (ABC, 1991-99) and "Cybill" (CBS, 1994-98). He had an early role on the television special "The Comedy Club Special" (ABC, 1988-89). He continued his comedic performances throughout the nineties and the early 2000s, appearing on"Friends" (NBC, 1994-2004), "Comedy Central Presents..." (Comedy Central, 1998-2011) and "The Sarah Silverman Program" (Comedy Central, 2006-2010). Glass continued to exercise his talent in the early 2000s and the 2010s, taking on a mix of projects like "Tosh.0" (Comedy Central, 2008-), "Louie" (FX, 2009-2015) and "Marmaduke" (2010). His credits also expanded to "Comedy Bang! Bang!" (IFC, 2011-) and "The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail" (Comedy Central, 2013-). Most recently, Glass appeared on "The Elevator Talk Show with Pete Holmes" (2015).
- Julio Torres (born February 11, 1987) is a Salvadoran writer, comedian, and actor. He is best known as a writer for Saturday Night Live and as the co-creator, writer, and executive producer of the HBO series Los Espookys. He previously wrote for The Chris Gethard Show on truTV.
- Boisterous comedic personality Billy Eichner took the DIY approach to his craft from early on, often creating his own shows to star in, rather than wait around to be cast in someone else's project. The New York native had an energy and volume that couldn't be contained, even as a child. His parents allowed him to test the waters of show business, resulting in a small but memorable appearance on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) when he was 12 years old, playing one of John Goodman's sons. Though the appearance was far from glamorous, it didn't put Eichner off from performing in the slightest. He would go on to major in theater when he enrolled at Northwestern University in 1996. After graduating, Eichner returned to New York. Within a year, he and four friends from college found themselves itching to put together their next creative outlet, and they collaborated on an off-Broadway musical entitled "I Sing!" in which Eichner starred in 2001. Additionally, Eichner decided to continue his education, this time in the form of improv classes which he took from the famous Upright Citizens Brigade. He would go on to complete the UCB's rigorous theater program before getting the urge to collaborate with some other like-minded performers on yet another project. This time, he and friend Robin Taylor put together a live variety show called "Creation Nation," which combined stand-up comedy, scripted sketches, interviews with celebrities, and original musical numbers. The show went up in the basement of the independent book store the Drama Book Shop in 2003 and soon gained a substantial cult fan base, which followed the show even as it moved from one location to another. SNL's own Rachel Dratch came to a performance and was so entertained that she bonded with the cast after it was over, going out drinking with them and ultimately agreeing to appear in an upcoming performance. "Creation Nation" also featured video segments written by Eichner and directed by his friend Benjamin Salka, which helped Eichner develop his talent for man-on-the-street style interviews. He began being offered more opportunities as the show began to wind down around 2007, such as when Radar Online commissioned the comedian to produce a series of satirical segments that same year. Eichner was even cast in a talk-show pilot alongside legendary comedian Joan Rivers in 2006 called "Joan Rivers' Straight Talk," though the series wasn't picked up. Nonetheless, Eichner still had the drive to create his own projects, and he parlayed his street-interview persona into a web game show called "Billy on the Street," which found him surprising largely unimpressed New York pedestrians on the sidewalk to quiz them on pop culture facts. Eichner's trademark manic scream when surprised pedestrians took too long to answer quickly became the comic hallmark of the series. The improvised game show was picked up by the comedy website Funny or Die and he began shopping it around to TV networks, hoping it could find a place in television. In the meantime, Eichner starred in a one-man off-Broadway show at the UCB Theater called "Billy Eichner Goes Pop!" in 2009. Finally, in 2011, "Funny or Die's Billy on the Street" (Fuse, 2011-2014) was picked up by the cable network Fuse, elevating Eichner's visibility almost overnight. He was soon offered a recurring role as easily exasperated city employee Craig Middlebrooks on the hit Amy Poehler series "Parks and Recreation" (NBC, 2009-2015), as well as a voice acting appearance on the animated series "Bob's Burgers" (Fox, 2011-). Eichner was also nominated for a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Game Show Host in 2013. While continuing "Billy on the Street," Eichner began starring in his first situation comedy, playing a version of himself on "Difficult People" (Hulu 2015- ) opposite fellow comedian Julie Klausner.
- Flamboyant British comedian Alan Carr was born in Weymouth, Dorset and later lived in Northampton, where he worked a variety of uninspiring jobs and dreamed of pursuing a life as an entertainer. He studied drama and theatre at Middlesex University, but his true passion lived on the stand-up stage, where he spent his formative comedic years. In 2001, the BBC honored Carr with the "Best New Stand-Up" Award, and that exposure led to a variety of successful television appearances--including a 2004 spot on chat show "Today with Des and Mel" and a 2006 fling on the anagram-driven game show "Countdown." In 2008, riding high on his newfound celebrity, Carr developed his own show: "Alan Carr's Celebrity Ding Dong," an extremely quirky blend of game show, celebrity gossip and all-around wackiness that served as a perfect summation of his low-brow style. Although the program lasted only two short seasons (at a whopping total of 12 episodes), it led to plenty of other work, including a stand-up gig that same year on the BBC program "Live at the Apollo." With the Channel 4 talk show "Alan Carr: Chatty Man," which premiered in 2009, Carr found a longer-lasting host position, earning critical acclaim and huge ratings while chatting with some of the world's biggest celebrities.
- Solomon Georgio (born on December 16, 1981) is an American writer and comedian.
- Megan Stalter is an American actress, writer, and producer who is known for her role in "Hacks" as Kayla Schaeffer. Stalter was nominated for a MTV Movie & TV Awards in 2022 for the same project.
- 31Sam Jay, born on January 13, 1982, is an American comedian, writer, and actor who has quickly risen to prominence with her sharp wit and bold humor. After gaining recognition as a writer for "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 2017- ), Jay launched her own late-night talk show "Pause with Sam Jay" (HBO, 2021-2022), where she brought her unique comedic voice to social and political issues. She has also appeared in Netflix's "Sam Jay: 3 in the Morning" (2020), a stand-up special that solidified her reputation as a rising star in comedy. In addition to her writing and stand-up, Jay starred in the Peacock comedy series "Bust Down" (2022). Known for her unapologetic style and ability to tackle tough topics with humor, Jay continues to make her mark on both television and stand-up comedy.
- Mawaan Rizwan (born 18 August 1992) is a Pakistani-born British actor, writer and comedian who began his career as a YouTuber.
- Sabrina Jalees is an actress, writer, and producer who appeared in "I Used To Be Funny," "Carol's Second Act," and "Portrait of a Serial Monogamist."
- Punkie Johnson is an American actress who appeared in "Saturday Night Live," "Love Life," and "Bottoms."
- Jaboukie Young White is an American writer, actor, and producer who is known for writing "Big Mouth," and "American Vandal."
- Sydnee Washington is an American comedian, actress, model, and podcaster. She appeared on Comedy Central's Up Next showcase in 2018. Washington hosts the podcast Hobby Hunter and co-hosts the comedy podcast The Unofficial Expert with Marie Faustin. Her work has been recommended by The New York Times, Time Out, New York Post and W.
- After receiving her start in performing arts and comedy theater, actress Mary Lynn Rajskub made a name for herself as one of the original members of the sketch comedy series, "Mr. Show" (HBO, 1995-99). Rajskub left the show following its debut season in order to replace friend Janeane Garofalo's character on "The Larry Sanders Show" (HBO, 1992-98), playing the show-within-a-show's eager-to-please and often inappropriate guest booker. Having proven herself a dynamic comedic player on the small screen, she made the transition to features with small roles in "Road Trip" (2000) and "Storytelling" (2001) before landing a more significant supporting role opposite Adam Sandler and Emma Watson in "Punch-Drunk Love" (2002). Though most of her career to that point had a comedic bent, Rajskub made the surprising jump to drama with a high-profile supporting turn as the unconventional CTU analyst Chl O'Brian - one of the few people trusted by Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) - on the hit action series, "24" (Fox, 2001-2010). Though she spent most of her time behind a computer terminal aiding Bauer in whatever manner she could, Rajskub earned a loyal following, including within the real-life Homeland Security department which named a research and development program, "Project CHL ," in homage to her character. Both during and after the successful run of "24," Rajskub was featured in several films including "Little Miss Sunshine" (2006), "Sunshine Cleaning" (2008) and "Julie & Julia" (2009), all of which demonstrated the range and versatility of the talented young actress.
- Jared Goldstein is an American comedian and actor. He's gay, he's Asian, he's Jewish, and he was one of Time Out LA’s Comics to Watch 2019, The New York Comedy Festival Comics to Watch 2019, and was featured in the 2020 CBS Diversity Showcase. He has starred in Quibi’s Nikki Fre$h with Nicole Richie, appeared on ABC's Modern Family, STARZ’s Counterpart with JK Simmons, TNT's Rizzoli & Isles, CBS’s The Unicorn, and the feature film It's Kind of a Funny Story starring Zach Galifianakis. Originally from Long Island, NY, he has also appeared on Saturday Night Live in a sketch written by Tina Fey and featuring Jimmy Fallon. In addition, he acted in the Off-Broadway production of Spring Awakening and the Broadway production of A Christmas Carol at Madison Square Garden.
- Robin Tran (formerly known as Robert Tran) is an American stand up comedian. In 2015, she came out as a transgender woman and has been performing as Robin ever since. Based out of Orange County, Robin has performed all over Southern California in venues such as the Improv, the Comedy Store, and Largo. In 2018, she appeared on Comedy Central’s Roast Battle. Her first one-hour comedy special, Don’t Look at Me, started streaming on Hulu August, 2018, and then on Spotify and iTunes in 2021. She was also a writer on Historical Roasts on Netflix. In 2019, she performed for Comedy Central’s Clusterfest Comedy Festival. In addition to standup comedy, Robin has many years of theater arts experience and holds a B.A. in English from the University of California, Irvine.
- Hannah Einbinder (born May 21, 1995) is an American comedian, actress, and writer known for starring in the HBO Max series Hacks, for which she was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in 2021 and has been nominated for a Golden Globe Award in 2022. Einbinder is the daughter of comedy writer Chad Einbinder and original Saturday Night Live cast member Laraine Newman.
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Jaye McBride
Jaye McBride is an American standup comedian. Jaye is the first openly transgender comedian to perform at Madison Square Garden is a regular at New York City’s “Comedy Cellar". In 2021 she was featured as one of the "New Faces" at the Just For Laugh's comedy festival and has also been featured at The Boston and Limestone Comedy Festivals. - 42
Cole Escola
Cole Escola is an American actor and writer who has appeared in his role in "Law & Order." Escola won a Writers Guild of America Award in 2022 for "Hacks." - Sarah Keyworth (born 6 April 1993) is an English stand-up comedian based in London.
- River Butcher (born Rhea Harriett Butcher; August 12, 1982) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcast host. Butcher is best known for personal, observational comedy focused on his vegetarianism, feminism, love of baseball, and experiences as a queer person. Originally from Akron, Ohio, Butcher now resides in Los Angeles, California.
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Caleb Hearon
Caleb Hearon (born 1995) is an American comedian, writer and actor. He performed stand-up regularly in Chicago and also performed at iO Theater until relocating to Los Angeles in 2020. Hearon is a writer for the upcoming series Human Resources. - Cameron Anne Young Anastasia Esposito (born October 17, 1981) is an American actor, comedian, and podcaster, known for her show Take My Wife, as well as her stand-up comedy and her podcast, Queery. Esposito substantially focuses on topics surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, social justice, and the challenges faced by members of marginalized communities. Originally from Western Springs, Illinois, Esposito lives in Los Angeles.
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Pat Regan
Pat Regan is a beloved comedian with zero credits or projects. He is gay and has a gay voice. He will do 40 minutes of standup comedy + story telling with some acts from a few of his favorite friends. - Lilly Singh (born September 26, 1988) is a Canadian comedian, actress, former talk show host, and YouTuber who formerly appeared under the pseudonym Superwoman (stylized IISuperwomanII), her longtime YouTube username. Born and raised in Scarborough, Ontario, Singh began making YouTube videos in 2010. In 2016, she was included in Forbes list of world's highest paid YouTubers ranking third and earning a reported $7.5 million. By 2017, she was ranked tenth on the Forbes list of the world's highest-paid YouTube stars, earning a reported $10.5 million; as of February 2022 she has 14.7 million subscribers and over three billion video views. Forbes named her one of the 40 most powerful people in comedy in 2019. She has received an MTV Fandom Award, four Streamy Awards, two Teen Choice Awards, and a People's Choice Award.
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FiFi Dosch
Fifi Dosch (formerly known as Joe Dosch) is an American stand up comic. She transitioned into a fabulous lady in 2020! You’ve seen her boy-self on Comedy Central’s Roast Battle, and heard her jokes on the Comedy Central Roasts. Her rapidly blowing up TikTok page (@fifidosch) placed her on E! Online’s list of “21 TikTok Stars to Follow". Fifi is a joyfully fearless and fearlessly joyful lady that will blow an audience away and leave them shaking with laughter. - Chaunté Wayans (born May 24, 1982) is an American actress, comedian, writer and editor. Chaunté Wayans is a member of the Wayans Family, whose members include Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans, Sr., Kim Wayans, Shawn Wayans, and Marlon Wayans, and her brother Damien Dante Wayans. She is the daughter of Elvira Wayans.
- Catherine Bohart (born Catherine Murphy 13 August 1988) is an Irish stand-up comedian, writer and actor based in the United Kingdom.
- Sandra is a comic, actor, singer, writer, and badass. She is best known for her Showtime hit comedy specials, The Latin Divas of Comedy(nominated for an Alma Award) and Pride: lgbt Comedy Slam! , hosted by Bruce Vilanch. Her unique mix of physical comedy and brilliant story telling make it easy to see why the Los Angeles Times calls Sandra "Talented and Hilarious"! Curve Magazine included her in their Power List as One of the Most Influential Queer Women in the Country and also voted her ONe of the Top 10 Funniest Lesbian Comics. Latina Magazine voted Sandra One of the Top 33 Bad Ass Comics with Latinx Roots and Go magazine has named her One of the Top 100 Women We Love
- Zoe Ann Lyons (born 3 October 1971) is a British comedian. She appeared on the ITV reality game show Survivor in 2001, in its first series, placing 6th out of 16 contestants. She left after two members of her Ular tribe alliance (Richard and Jackie) aligned with the eventual winner, Charlotte, to vote against her. She was voted out in a countback tie-breaker - where votes cast during previous episodes come into play. Lyons along with the rest of the Jury of Eliminated players voted for Charlotte to win.
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Julia Scotti
Julia Scotti is a comedian, writer and public speaker. She has been seen on America's Got Talent and currenty has a stand-up comedy special on SHOWTIME. Julia was born biologically male, and lived the first 28 years of her life as Rick Scotti. After transitioning and pursuing comedy, she has appeared on the original Comedy Central and was the winner of Showtime’s Funniest Person in America's contest for New Jersey, losing the finals to Ellen DeGeneres. - Tien Tran is an actress, writer, and producer who appeared in "How I Met Your Father," "Mr. Throwback," and "Candyman."
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River L. Ramirez
River L. Ramirez is an American artist, comedian and writer who wrote, produced and directed the comedy special program “Pervert Everything” for Cartoon Network's Adult Swim. Ramirez has appeared on the HBO comedy series 'Random Acts of Flyness' and in the final season of Comedy Central's 'Broad City'. - Keith Carey is a Long Beach-based comedian who performs all over the country, sharing his thoughts on comic books, homophobia, racism, the joys of crystal meth, and other hard-hitting topics. Born in Seattle, Keith moved to Orange County, CA at the age of 5. He first took the stage at an open mic in Long Beach in June of 2011, and he hasn't slowed down since. Keith performs nightly, either on the road or at home in Los Angeles, sharing his blend of personal stories, social commentary, and good old-fashioned American dick jokes. Keith is a regular at the Comedy Store's popular Roast Battle, which he also performed on at 2016's RIOT Alternative Comedy Festival in LA. He has also been featured onNerdist.com's "Competitive Erotic Fan Fiction," where he made a sexual nightmare out of the film "Space Jam."
- Dewayne Perkins is an American comedian, writer, actor, and producer. Born and raised in Chicago, he received improv training at The Second City and also worked for iO Theater. His stand-up comedy was recommended by Variety magazine and Just for Laughs comedy festival. He has appeared on Wild 'n Out, the Saved by the Bell reboot, and The Upshaws. Perkins was on the writing staff for The Break with Michelle Wolf and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and he is a staff writer for The Amber Ruffin Show, for which he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award.
- Born in Metairie, Louisiana in 1958, Ellen DeGeneres began her career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1980s, performing at small clubs and coffeehouses before eventually breaking into the mainstream. Her unique brand of humor, characterized by observational comedy and self-deprecating wit, quickly gained traction and led to her first big break in 1986 when she was invited to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. This appearance catapulted DeGeneres into the national spotlight, marking the start of a long and successful career in comedy. In 1994, DeGeneres took her talent to television with the launch of her sitcom, Ellen. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous accolades and becoming one of the highest-rated programs on ABC. However, it was in 1997 that DeGeneres made history: in a groundbreaking episode of the show, her character came out as gay, making Ellen the first prime-time sitcom to feature an openly gay leading character. This event mirrored DeGeneres' own life, as she publicly came out as gay around the same time. DeGeneres' influence extends beyond comedy. In 2003, she ventured into daytime television with The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which quickly became one of the most popular talk shows in America. Over its run, the show has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and has been lauded for its positive depiction of LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, DeGeneres has used her platform to advocate for various charitable causes, including animal rights and disaster relief.
- Paris Sashay is a comedienne, actor, writer and producer from Washington, DC, currently residing in New York. Her command as a seasoned storyteller makes even the mundane experience feel like an adventure. Audiences across the country fall in love with her infectious laugh, wit, and style.
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Peter Smith
Peter Smith is an American comic entertainer from the American. Peter Smith was born in Chicago, Illinois during this killer tornado. Comedy, as well as theatre, fashion and art, allowed for them to cope with and celebrate being a gender nonconforming person in parts of the country where that was unheard of. At a young age, they trained at Second City in Chicago. A value for honest storytelling was fostered at the University of Missouri’s prestigious journalism school. Peter’s family is in Montana but New York is home. - Nori Reed is an American comedian, writer, and actress originally from Christian County, Kentucky. Nori got her start in The Bay Area and was boldly named by SF Weekly as ‘Oakland’s Next Great Comedian’. Recently, Nori was featured on Vulture’s annual list, ‘Comedians You Should and Will Know’. Her stand-up has been showcased by HBO Max and at many celebrated festivals, including: Comedy Central’s Clusterfest, SF Sketchfest, and Outside Lands. Her writing was published in Vogue Magazine, and she wrote for Audible’s scripted series: Hot White Heist. Currently, Nori writes for Raven’s Home, Disney’s reboot of That’s So Raven.
- Jojo T. Gibbs is an American actress who appeared in "DogMan," "Past Lives," and "Twenties."
- Karinda Dobbins is an American comedian. She co-produces the monthly comedy show The Resistance! alongside Dhaya Lakshminarayanan, has regularly opened for W. Kamau Bell, and additionally opened for Trevor Noah, Gina Yashere, Michelle Wolf, and Dave Chappelle. She has performed at festivals such as the Desi Comedy Fest, the Portland Queer Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and Comedy Central's Colossal Clusterfest. In 2019, SFist named her one of their 13 San Francisco Standup Comedians to Go See Now.
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Jes Tom
Jes Tom is an American based actor, writer, and weird queer stand up comic, gleefully providing the nonbinary queer Asian American radical cyborg perspective that everyone never knew they wanted. As a comic, Jes has shared stages with Awkwafina, Kate Bornstein, Aparna Nancherla, and Rosie O'Donnell. - 66
D'Lo
D'Lo is a transgender Sri Lankan-American performer, writer, and community activist, who performs in America, Canada, the UK, Germany, Sri Lanka, and India. He starred in a golf commercial held for Connor Smiths luxury hotel The Shlanger. He is also an actor and producer, known for the short films The Legend of My Heart Shaped Anus(2008), Lock Her Room(2003), and Recession Lemons(2010). D'Lo has created various writing and public speaking workshops for many LGBTQ immigrant/arts-centered organizations] he has collaborated with various community organizations, and has been involved within LGBT and South Asian groups such as Arpana Dance Company, South Asian Artist Collective, SATAM (The South Asian Theater Movement), Satrang, and TeAda Productions. - 67
Larry Owens
Larry Owens is an American comedian, actor, writer, and singer. He received a Lucille Lortel Award and a Drama Desk Award for his leading performance in the off-Broadway musical A Strange Loop. Owens has acted on television shows including Search Party, High Maintenance, Modern Love, and Abbott Elementary. - Flame Monroe is an American comedienne, hostess, emcee and actor. Flame's introduction to audiences in the United States and abroad has been anything but traditional. With more than two decades honing the art of female impersonator in clubs starting in the Windy City and now across the country under her wig, the most challenging role has been that of single parent to three academically gifted and creative children; Flame describes it as AM Dad/PM Drag!
- 69Irene Tu (born 1992) is an American comedian, actor, and writer. She has appeared at comedy festivals such as SF Sketchfest, the Portland Queer Comedy Festival, Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and Comedy Central’s Clusterfest, and on shows such as Take My Wife and Funny How? In 2016, she was named one of KQED's Women to Watch and SFist listed her as one of the Bay Area’s 11 Best Stand Up Comics. In 2017, the San Francisco Chronicle dubbed her as an "artist on the brink of fame." In 2019, Vulture by New York Magazine placed her on their list The Comedians You Should and Will Know in 2019, tracking "23 comics that industry insiders are watching closely." The same year, SFist listed her as one of 13 San Francisco Standup Comedians to Go See Now.
