Ireland’s comedic talent is experiencing a surge, with a new generation poised to follow in the footsteps of its celebrated exports.
Here are ten rising stars in the Irish comedy scene you should know…
Cork-born, London-based comedian Roger O’Sullivan has been building momentum for several years, racking up awards along the way. He recently won the Comedians’ Choice Award for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe. O’Sullivan’s stand-up draws heavily on his Irish heritage, but his lo-fi ‘80s video game series on social media has also garnered a dedicated following.
Dubliner Rachel Galvo, also based in London, initially gained traction on TikTok. Now 25, she’s being hailed for her quick wit and self-deprecating humor, showcased in her debut show, The Shite Feminist. Her perceptive parodies of figures from her own privileged background are also well worth a follow.
Aidan Greene, a Cavan native, boldly embraces his stammer as a central element of his comedy. His 2024 Edinburgh Fringe show, Stop! Stammer Time, received positive reviews, and he’s currently working on a short film, Stutterbug, aimed at challenging stereotypes surrounding stammering.
Katie Boyle, a Dubliner performing in New York, expertly mines humor from her Irish upbringing and experiences in the U.S. She’s headlined venues across both countries, tackling topics from dating American men to navigating therapy. Her star is undoubtedly on the rise.
Galway native Aoife Dunne’s viral videos have quickly propelled her to prominence. Her debut show, Good Grief, explored a period when she paused her comedy career following her mother’s death, and she’s now back with a sold-out tour in 2025. Expect even bigger things from Dunne in 2026.
Comedian John Spillane, not to be confused with the musician, has established himself as a skilled improviser. His show, 7even, which explored the seven deadly sins, won the Spirit of Wit award at the 2024 Dublin Fringe festival, and his online sketches are consistently high-quality.
Tralee native Shane Clifford remains somewhat under the radar, but has been steadily building a following through online content and stand-up performances. He fearlessly tackles complex themes like masculinity, childhood trauma, and depression with a comedic touch. His latest show, Shane of Fools, demonstrates his readiness for wider recognition.
Kate Moylan, from Kilkenny, has quickly become a name to watch, particularly through her co-hosting role on the MATE Comedy podcast with Mikey Fleming. Her background in theatre informs her versatile physical comedy, showcased in projects like Hoes of Tralee and performances with Club Valentine. She also wrestles!
London-based Dubliner Grace Mulvey began her comedy journey at age 30. She has since received the BBC’s Galton & Simpson bursary for comedy writing and now hosts two podcasts, The Jump and Fad Camp. Mulvey’s insightful wit on topics like Irish identity, millennial anxieties, and the challenges of life in one’s thirties is particularly sharp.
Meg Reilly (aka Few Cans), a young Dubliner, has been making waves with viral videos on TikTok and is now bringing her comedy to the stage. Her new show, The Drama Queen, recently debuted. With a self-proclaimed “superstar” attitude, Reilly is one to watch in 2026.
Lauren Murphy hosts the culture podcast Get Around To It.
Worth a look
