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LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 finalists

Tuesday 27th May 2025, 3:13pm

LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 finalists. Image shows left to right: Ciara Barnes, Dom McGovern, Chloe Reynolds, Esther, Josh Sedman

The line-up has been confirmed for the LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 final.

The following acts progressed through the semi-finals to earn a place on the Clapham Grand stage on Tuesday 10th June.

The biographies have been written by the comedians themselves.

Ciara Barnes: "A worrying level of good" - Shane Daniel Byrne.

Sean Barnham: Goes with the flow because they're not a good swimmer.

Esther: Gay & tired.

Jack Henry: A triple threat - gay, anxious and exhausted.

Sydney May: Blind queer woman shares unique stories and observations.

Dominic McGovern: Gregarious and flirtatious comedian from London via Australia.

Chloe Reynolds: Universally niche, self depreciating wry storytelling.

Josh Sedman: "Josh is quick witted, cheeky, charming and comedically brilliant".

Rhys Thorne: A comic with a walk as limp as his wrist.

LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 finalists. Image shows left to right: Sean Barnham, Sydney May, Rhys Thorne, Jack Henry
LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 finalists. Image shows left to right: Sean Barnham, Sydney May, Rhys Thorne, Jack Henry

Now in its fourth year, the LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year competition, presented by Comedy Bloomers, has become a well-known platform for showcasing the UK's brightest queer comedic talents.

Chris Smith, founder of Comedy Bloomers, says: "This year's finalists are a brilliant reflection of what makes queer comedy so exciting right now - they're smart, bold, and unapologetically themselves. The range of acts truly represents the spectrum of our LGBTQ+ community, with no two voices the same. Audiences are craving storytelling that's inclusive and original and that's exactly what these comics deliver. Comedy Bloomers has always been about championing fresh, authentic talent, and this line-up is proof that the future of queer comedy is in very good hands. We can't wait to see them all take to the stage at the final - it's going to be a brilliant night."

The final will be hosted by Matthew Ali and headlined by 2024 winner Marty Gleeson. Drag Race star Tia Kofi, Zoe Lyons, Jessica Fostekew and James Barr are confirmed for the judging panel.


The LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 final is on Tuesday 10th June. Tickets are available via outsavvy.com

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