Anyone making a plan for a night at the Comedy Cellar has those secret hopes that celebs like Chris Rock or Rachel Feinstein will make an appearance. But holding out for the stars might leave you missing what’s right in front of you: some of the best fresh comedic talent in the country.
Thanks to the megaphone that is social media, we’ve all got access to the work of more comedians than ever before. From stand-ups to sketch writers, impersonators and mimes, the content is endless. So to break through the noise, we’ve used our expertise to narrow it down to New York City’s finest four. They each have their own skills and specialties that have landed them on Time Out’s nationwide list of 12 up-and-coming comedians to watch in 2026.
While there is no shortage of hillarious comedy to be seen in and around the city these days, this is our list of of the best and brightest newbies this year we think you should look out for.