Sydney May wins LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025

Hundreds turn out for a dazzling night of queer comedy and to celebrate the UK’s rising stars

Sydney May has been crowned the winner of Comedy Bloomers’ LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025, following a glittering Grand Final at the iconic Clapham Grand on Tuesday 10 June. The rising star beat off fierce competition from eight other finalists to take home the coveted title in front of a packed audience of over 500 comedy fans.

Hailing from Brighton, Sydney's style blends personal insight and bold, original ‘observational’ humour, often touching on identity and her lived experiences as a blind and queer person, through fearless storytelling. 

Sydney May said: "I can honestly say I did not see this coming. I’m beyond thankful for my awesome family and friends who have supported me from the beginning and for the unbiased strangers who somehow find me funny. This award means the world - not just as recognition, but as a reminder that laughter really does break down barriers. Comedy has given me a voice, a stage, and now, this surreal moment. Thank you for coming on this wild ride with me - I don’t know where life is going, but I can’t wait to find out!” 

Sydney impressed the judging panel - Zoe Lyons, Jessica Fostekew, James Barr, and Tia Kofi - with razor-sharp delivery, original material, and undeniable stage charisma. 

James Barr said: “All of your jokes are perfectly constructed, so funny, brilliantly written and surprising. I honestly think you’re ready for Live at the Apollo right now!”

Jessica Fostekew, said: “Timing, writing, delivery – such strong f****ing jokes! That was absolutely brilliant!” 

Tia Kofi said: “Fantastic, so funny, some good misdirection moments – and there’s something about the rhythm and the way you deliver the jokes that was really satisfying to listen to” 

Zoe Lyons said: “Just brilliant word-class jokes with so little space between all of the gags – a professional and absolutely stunning performance”

The final was hosted by the brilliant Matthew Ali, and marked the culmination of a nationwide search for the UK’s freshest queer comedy talent, following six live nationwide heats and two hotly competed semi-finals. Now in its fourth year, the competition is the UK’s only dedicated comedy award for emerging LGBTQ+ stand-up performers and has quickly become a vital launchpad for new voices on the scene.

Chris Smith, founder of Comedy Bloomers, said:“Sydney absolutely lit up the room - her set was rich, sharp and original. This year’s finalists were all phenomenal, and the sheer range of styles and stories on stage shows just how vibrant and essential queer comedy is right now. We’re so proud to be part of building that future.”

Comedy Bloomers’ LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year will return in 2026, with applications opening later this year.

Image credits: Mariana Feijo