Jorvik Comedian of the Year 2026 to be held in York

Thirty-six up-and-coming comedians from across the UK will compete in this year’s Jorvik Comedian of the Year 2026, a competition that spotlights emerging talent and crowns an “ultimate Viking comedy champion!”

Hosted by comedy veteran Tony Vino, the contest will unfold over four heats at Friargate Theatre in York, culminating in a grand final on June 11.

Jorvik Viking Centre is supporting the event, with the first heat forming part of the Jorvik Viking Festival Fringe pre-event programme.

Each heat will feature nine comedians delivering 10-minute sets packed with gags and punchlines, with just two from each night advancing to the final, as decided by audience vote.

Heat one kicks off on February 12, followed by heats on March 12, April 9, and May 14.

The full line-up of contenders includes Marty Riley, Ben Robinson, Stuart Thomas, Fil Milton, Alex Camp, Graeme Rayner, Rob, Louis Etienne, Diane Fitton, Liam Alexander, Daniel Colbeck, Josh Sedman, Wendy King, Jake Breeze, Edi Johnson, Laurence Tuck, Rex Purnell, Mikey Milligan, Alfie Carter, Henning Nilsen, Ravi Saini, Jonathon Kiernan, Fred Carver, Stephen Catling, Bobby Jethro, Maxine Wade, Lewis Howard, Charlie Lewis, Tim Biglowe, Michael Carter, Benny Shakes, Halls of Ridiculous, Matt Wheelwright, Dom Hutchins, Kie Carson, and Debra Holt.

With only one comedian taking home the title, competition is expected to be fierce.

Organisers said: “If you want to see the brightest stars of the future before they get expensive, this is where it starts!”

“No safety nets. No sympathy laughs. Just jokes that land or die trying.”

The organisers have also advised attendees that some acts may include adult themes or language.

Tickets are priced at £9.50 and are available via the Friargate Theatre box office.

The venue is hosting a range of other comedy events, including the monthly Right Here Right Now improv show, the Tony Vino-hosted Get Up Stand Up, and Alfie Moore: Fair Cop Live – Radio Warm-Up, a preview for Moore’s BBC Radio 4 comedy series It’s a Fair Cop.

More information and ticket bookings are available at www.friargatetheatre.co.uk.