The 10 most popular stand-up comedians in the UK right now
Unlike the olden days, comedy has become a well-paying career for many people. Notably, the British comedy industry has grown immensely, fostering talent globally. Renowned for their wit, charisma, and ability to elicit laughter, popular stand-up comedians in the UK have played a pivotal role in shaping the comedic landscape.
Russell Howard (L), Ellie Taylor (C), and Stephen Merchant(R) are among the well-known comedians in the UK. Photo: Dave Benett, Stuart C. Wilson, and Joseph Okpako (modified by author) Source: Getty Images
The British comedy industry is a vibrant and influential force within the entertainment landscape, renowned for its rich history and diverse comedic styles. With a tradition that spans from traditional sketch comedy to contemporary stand-up, the industry has consistently produced talent that resonates both domestically and internationally.
Most popular stand-up comedians in the UK
Popular comedians have naturally humorous postures and accents and have drawn admirers of all ages. They will make you eagerly anticipate the upcoming video release or their live events. According to YouGov, the following are the most popular stand-up comedians in the UK right now.
1. Ricky Gervais
Ricky Gervais attends a special screening and Q&A for the new Netflix series “After Life” at BAFTA in London, England. Photo: David M. Benett Source: Getty Images
Determining the UK’s biggest comedian is not easy. However, Ricky Gervais stands out in this list. Born on 25 June 1961 in Reading, Berkshire, Gervais has achieved significant success as a stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and producer.
One of Gervais’s most notable contributions to the comedy world is his creation of The Office, a groundbreaking sitcom that first aired in the UK in 2001. His other notable works are Ricky Gervais Live: Animals, Ricky Gervais Live 2: Politics, and the most recent Ricky Gervais: SuperNature.
2. Greg Davies
Greg Davies attends the House Of Fraser British Academy Television Awards 2016 at the Royal Festival Hall in London, England. Photo: Stuart C. Wilson Source: Getty Images
Greg is the writer and star of the critically lauded Channel 4 sitcom Man Down. He is among the top British comedians celebrated for his towering presence in the comedy industry. He hails from St Asaph, a city in Denbighshire, Wales.
He is also known for his roles in various films and TV series like The Horne Section TV Show and The Inbetweeners. Davies combines physical comedy with clever wit, earning him widespread acclaim. His unique blend of charisma and comedic talent has firmly established him as a standout figure among the top British comedians of his generation.
3. Sarah Millican
Sarah Millican during the filming of the Sarah Millican Show at Media City, Manchester. Photo: Martin Rickett Source: Getty Images
Sarah Millican is a prominent figure among female stand-up comedians in the UK. Known for her relatable and candid humour, she has carved out a successful career in the comedy industry, standing out in an industry dominated by men.
Born in South Shields, England, Sarah has gained acclaim for her stand-up comedy through various specials. Some of her notable stand-up comedy shows include Chatterbox Live, Thoroughly Modern Millican, Outsider, and Control Enthusiast.
4. Peter Kay
Peter Kay, winner of the Male Performance, poses in the Winners’ room at the House of Fraser British Academy Television Awards 2016 at the Royal Festival Hall in London. Photo: Stuart C. Wilson Source: Getty Images
Peter Kay is a highly successful British stand-up comedian known for his observational humour, relatable storytelling, and distinctive Northern English wit. His fame skyrocketed with the release of his stand-up specials, including Live at the Top of the Tower and Live at the Bolton Albert Halls.
Kay’s comedic style resonates with audiences due to its down-to-earth charm and cultural references. His remarkable growth in the comedy scene led to record-breaking tours, sitcoms like Phoenix Nights, and widespread recognition, establishing him as one of the UK’s most beloved and influential stand-up comedians.
5. Stephen Merchant
Stephen Merchant attends “The Outlaws” Emmy FYC Event at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills in West Hollywood, California. Photo: Michael Kovac Source: Getty Images
Stephen Merchant is a talented English comedian, writer, and actor. He is known for his collaborative work with Ricky Gervais, particularly on the groundbreaking sitcom The Office and the successful podcast The Ricky Gervais Show. According to Nme, Stephen is the highest-paid comedian in the UK.
His wealth stands at £26.6 million as of 2023, surpassing the wealth of his close competitors in the industry. Apart from being the star of The Office TV comedy series, he is known as the co-director, co-writer, and co-star of both Extras and Life’s Too Short.
6. Ellie Taylor
Ellie Taylor attends the Apple original series ‘Ted Lasso’ Season 3 red carpet premiere event at Westwood Village Theater in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Emma McIntyre Source: Getty Images
Ellie Taylor is among the young English comedians known for her sharp wit and engaging performances. While she has gained recognition through various TV appearances, Taylor is primarily known for her stand-up comedy.
Some of her notable stand-up specials include Ellie Taylor: This Guy and Ellie Taylor: Infidelliety, where she showcases her humour and relatable storytelling. Taylor’s comedic style has garnered appreciation.
7. James Acaster
James Acaster on stage for Stand Up For Shelter at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London, United Kingdom. Photo: Ollie Millington Source: Getty Images
James Acaster is among the famous stand-up comedians in the UK, celebrated for his unique comedic style and offbeat humour. He was born on 9 January 1985 in Kettering, Northamptonshire, England, UK.
Known for his witty observations and storytelling prowess, Acaster has gained widespread acclaim through various stand-up specials, including James Acaster: Repertoire on Netflix. He has also been featured in films like Cinderella, The Island, and We the Jury.
8. David Mitchell
Director David Robert Mitchell attends “Under The Silver Lake” Photocall during the 71st annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France. Photo: Dominique Charriau Source: Getty Images
David Mitchell was born on 14 July 1974 in Salisbury, England, to Ian (father) and Kathy Mitchell (mother). David is an outstanding force in the comedy industry. He is well known for That Mitchell and Webb Look and Magicians.
David Mitchell is also known for his role as Mark Corrigan in the popular sitcom Peep Show, a character that earned him critical acclaim for his nuanced and comedic performance.
9. Sara Pascoe
Sara Pascoe during the filming for the Graham Norton Show at BBC Studioworks 6 Television Centre, Wood Lane, London. Photo: Matt Crossick Source: Getty Images
Sara Pascoe is an English comedian known for her sharp wit and insightful stand-up comedy. Born on 22 May 1981 in Dagenham, East London, Pascoe brings a unique blend of intelligence and humour to her performances, making her a rising star in the UK comedy scene.
Her comedy often explores personal experiences, relationships, and social observations, making her a standout figure in the vibrant landscape of contemporary British comedy. Her stand-up specials include works like Sara Pascoe vs History and LadsLadsLads.
10. Russell Howard
Russell Howard performs on stage during Reading Festival day 2 in Reading, England. Photo: Joseph Okpakonow Source: Getty Images
Russell Howard is one of the most popular stand-up comedians in the UK, celebrated for his energetic and relatable comedic style. Born on 23 March 1980 in Bristol, England, Howard’s comedic talents have earned him widespread recognition and acclaim.
Apart from stand-up comedy, Russell is a well-known writer and actor. Russell Howard’s notable works include Russell Howard: Live, Russell Howard Live: Dingledodies, and Russell Howard’s Good News. He exemplifies the enduring appeal of stand-up comedy as a form of entertainment.
Final word
Stand-up comedians in the UK occupy a central and cherished position within the nation’s cultural identity. Their ability to craft laughter from the intricacies of life, coupled with a diverse range of comedic styles, underscores the enduring appeal of stand-up comedy in Britain.
Tuko.co.ke also published an interesting article about the funniest comedians in Nigeria. Comedy has become a money-minting venture in most countries, including Nigeria. Nigeria is not only known for its Nollywood blockbusters but also for its funny comedians.
These comedians have an incredible fanbase and massive fortune. Some of the names featured on this list include Basketmouth, AY, Gordon, I Go Die, Okey Bakassi, and others. The funniest comedians in Nigeria have gained fame and fortune because of their hilarious jokes.