'This award opened up so many doors' says 2024 winner Marty Gleeson

Entries have opened for the LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year.

Run by the Comedy Bloomers club, the title has previously been won by Marty Gleeson, pictured, Victoria Olsina and Charlie George

There’s no cash prize, but organisers say 'the competition offers exposure and industry opportunities. The final is filmed at broadcast standard with celebrity judges, creating a high-quality showcase for emerging talent.’

The final will be live-streamed on NextUp and an edited special will be available internationally on OutTV. Clips from last year’s show have already racked up more than 8million

Last year’s winner Marty Gleeson said: ‘This award opened up so many doors for me in my comedy career. While it gave me visibility, it also was a huge boost of confidence in my craft. It's a vital competition for queer voices in comedy.’ 

Entries are open until February 25 with heads beginning in April in London, Edinburgh and  Manchester with semi-finals in May. Apply here. 

Published: 11 Feb 2025