If you’re searching for fresh, high-energy, and downright hilarious talent, these are the comedians to lookout for in 2025! From quick-witted crowd work to viral internet fame, these rising stars are making waves in stand-up and beyond. Whether they’re headlining clubs, performing at major festivals, or dropping new specials, these three comedians are must-see acts this year.

1. Derrick Knopsnyder

Derrick Knopsnyder brings his comedy to the mic with his podcast Bad Potato Salad! Alongside his co-host Mike, Derrick dives into the wildest corners of the internet, reacting to jaw-dropping Reddit stories, outrageous confessions, and bizarre relationship sagas. With razor-sharp wit and a flair for comedic chaos, Bad Potato Salad is a hilarious deep dive into the absurd—guaranteed to leave you laughing and wondering, “Did they really just say that?”

Derrick Knopsnyder has been cracking jokes since childhood, but his official stand-up career began at just 19 years old. Now one of the fastest-rising comedians in the industry, he’s the youngest regular feature act at the Pittsburgh Improv and has performed on Comedy Central’s New Talent Search, The OddBall Comedy Festival, and Stand Up To Cancer’s Comedy Festival.

Derrick’s quick wit and natural charisma make every show unique, often using crowd work to create an engaging and interactive experience. He’s performed at hundreds of colleges, clubs, and corporate events across the country, earning accolades like “One of the Highest Rated Comedians” by Campus Activities Magazine and being a National Comedian of the Year Finalist for the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities.

Beyond the stage, Derrick blends comedy with his love of golf in his YouTube series Comedians in Carts Making Bogeys, where he hilariously covers the PGA Tour. He’s shared the stage with legends like Bill Burr, Jim Jefferies, Bo Burnham, and John Mulaney, and his new comedy special, Everywhere But Famous, is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

Oh, and his biggest fan? His mom—who (totally unbiasedly) calls him “The Best Comedian Working Today!”

Bonus for college bookers: Ask your agent about Derrick’s Stuff-a-Buddy event! The first 50 audience members at his show get a free Stuff-a-Buddy!

2. Ryan Kelly (Youth Pastor Ryan)

Ryan Kelly, better known as Youth Pastor Ryan online, embraces his wholesome Midwestern charm and self-aware humor. With a name that fits his clean storytelling style, he has captivated audiences with tales of near-death experiences involving planes, skydiving, and scuba diving (maybe he should stay on land). From working at Disney to tracking down scammers with his Master’s Degree in Homeland Security, his experiences make for an endless supply of hilarious material.

Ryan’s comedy shines online as well, with millions of fans following his Scamming Scammers series on TikTok and YouTube. But one of his biggest viral hits came from his History Videos, where he humorously recapped historical events and the history of well know companies in a way that resonated with audiences everywhere. The videos took off, earning praise for its clever mix of comedy and education.. It even led to an invitation to perform at an exclusive party at the French Ambassador’s residence—a surreal and unexpected milestone in his comedy career.

Ryan’s ability to mix history, humor, and heart makes him one of the comedians to lookout for in both the digital and stand-up world. You can catch his latest jokes and adventures on TikTok and YouTube (@youthpastorryan) or Instagram (@ryankellycomedy).

3. Christian Escoto

Hailing from Washington, D.C., Christian Escoto is quickly making a name for himself in the comedy world. His sharp wit and engaging stage presence have led him to perform at top venues like DC Improv, Hotbed Comedy Club, and Howard Theater, opening for big names like Jordan Klepper, Jessica Kirson, and JR De Guzman.

As a Filipino-American, Christian brings a unique perspective to his storytelling, using humor to connect with audiences nationwide. “Making people laugh has always been the end goal,” he says, and his growing fanbase proves he’s doing just that. His performances have been featured on Sirius XM, solidifying his status as one of the comedians to lookout for in stand-up comedy.

If you love discovering fresh talent before they blow up, these are the comedians to lookout for in 2025. Whether you’re into quick-witted crowd work, viral internet humor, or heartfelt storytelling, Derrick, Ryan, and Christian bring something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to see them live!

Want to book one of these comedians for your next event? Contact your agent today!