Comedians Choice Awards shortlists announced

Shortlists for the Comedians Choice Awards 2025 highlight best show and best newcomer as chosen by performers at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Edinburgh Fringe Comedians Choice Awards Shortlists Unveiled

The nominees for the Comedians Choice Awards 2025 were released at the Edinburgh Fringe. The Best Show shortlist includes a wide mix of acts such as Alison Spittle with the show BIG, Garry Starr with Classic Penguins, Lorna Rose Treen with 24 Hour Diner People, and Ozzy Algar with Speed Queen. The list also features Trygve Wakenshaw with Barnie Duncan for Different Party and Nate Kitch with Something Different among others.

Best Newcomer nominees include Ada Player and Bron Waugh, Ayo Adenekan, Ed Mulvey, Jessie Nixon, Molly McGuinness, Sofia May, and Ozzy Algar. The winners will be announced late tonight and could shape who gets a bigger platform in the coming season.

The shortlist shows a mix of established voices and rising talents. The format of peer voting inside the Fringe can boost acts that have strong networks among fellow performers, helping to lift careers quickly.

Across the lineup the trend leans toward risk and variety rather than safe stand up. That mirrors the festival's role as a testing ground for new formats and stage personalities who can stand out on a crowded calendar.

Highlights

The results will shape the fringe's next wave of acts.