New Comedy Stars Named in Variety's Annual Watch List

The New Stars

Variety has released its annual 10 Comics to Watch list for 2026, highlighting rising stand-up talents like Adam Friedland, Kyle Gordon, Wally Baram, and Usama Siddiquee. Since the year 2000, this franchise has spotted future comedy stars early. Past honorees include Zach Galifianakis, Maria Bamford, Patton Oswalt, Louis C.K., Nate Bargatze, and Nikki Glaser.

Festival Showcase

Honorees will perform live at a New York Comedy Festival showcase on November 12. The event takes place at the Hard Rock Hotel in Times Square. Veteran comedians such as Nikki Glaser, Hasan Minhaj, and Tim Robinson contributed endorsements for this year's selected acts.

Context

Spotting new comedy talent early has long been a tradition for entertainment publications looking at upcoming performers in the live circuit. Many artists on these lists go on to star in television specials, films, and streaming projects. Live showcases help connect these rising performers directly with wider audiences and industry insiders.