Shes supposed to be still reeling from her divorce and sad that shes a childless single woman, living on her own at age 40 who will get discovered dead in her bathtub with her face eaten off by a cat. All Welcome! Which British female stand up comedians do you love? He is also a BBC New Talent winner and a regular at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. You can check out her comedy by clicking, Jo Caulfield is a comedian and actress who you may be familiar with from her appearances on shows like Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Mock the Week, Have I Got News For You, Argumental, The Politics Show and Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow. Flanagan has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and toured Britain with stand-up shows. Lest we forget hilarious British television presenters like James Corden, John Oliver, and Dara Briain. (Nearby, a pug snores.) 1. Crowd work in televised sets tend to be one-offs to audience members, who are briefly spotlighted and occasionally used for a callback. He is known for writing and starring in the sitcom Not Going Out, for being a team, James William Acaster (born 9 January 1985) is an English comedian, writer, and presenter. Here is the list of some of the best British female stand up comedians. Shappi Khorsandi You can check out some of her comedy by clicking here and here. Her stand-up shows Te Glitter Room and Trouble are a big hit. Female comedians have some of the funniest stand-up comedy specials available to stream. Byer discusses the emotional toll of life in the pandemic and popular response to COVID-inspired recommendations and regulations, chiefly through anecdotes about her own experience. Katherine Ryan is a comedian, actor, writer and presenter based in London. Sarah Millican is noted for her observational comedy, covering a variety of topics including relationships, issues facing women and body image. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You can check out her comedy by clicking, Shappi Khorsandi is noted for her observational and Black comedy, as well as dealing with topics such as Iranian culture, British politics and culture and everyday life. You can check out some of her comedy by clicking, Sara Pascoe is an comedian and actor, noted for her roles and appearances on The Thick of It, Mock the Week, The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret, Campus, Being Human, Twenty Twelve, QI, Have I Got News For You, Would I Lie to You and W1A. Shappi Khorsandi Shappi Khorsandi is noted for her observational and Black comedy, as well as dealing with topics such as Iranian culture, British politics and culture and everyday life. Jen Brister Saffron, June Whitfield as Edina's sarcastic and thieving mother, and. The service now has several stand-up specials from female stand-up comedians like Ali Wong and Nicole Byer. But with a new interview intended to promote the show, the former Saturday Night Live cast member did quite the opposite. Society was under a garb of misbelieve, which tagged men with the sense of wit while women were believed to be more melodramatic. Pages in category "British women comedians" The following 38 pages are in this category, out of 38 total. Jon Richardson (comedian), British comedian The title refers to the state of the nation under Trumps presidencyIts not normal that I know that Im smarter than the president, she saysand material about Trump dominates the first section of the hour. Here and Now is a lot more wholesome than most stand-up specials, but still hilarious. 1. Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com The actress, voice actress, writer, and comedian is best known for her voice roles on Bob's Burgers and Toy Story 3. The female protagonists of the journalism rom-coms that followed How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days were somewhat more soulful than Andie, especially Jenna Rink from 13 Going on 30. All of these women comedians are activists with an explosion of humor in their words. Drag his ass talks about the essential thing that seemed to have ruined our early adulthood- the culture of the fuckboys. Since then, she has gathered up 6.3 million supporters and just begun presenting the Podcast For You, discussing everything TikTok stuff and interviewing its most exciting content makers. You should also check out her podcast Maureen & Jen, by clicking here. She produced a rap video that got around 5 million views, and she found herself pushed into the limelight out of the blue. His father owned a farm, where Rowan grew up with his two older brothers, Rupert and Rodney. Plaza became a worldwide crush when she played the role of April Ludgate (Parks and Recs) and Riley (Happiest Season). Dark, Female-Led British Comedies Are Taking Over America Culture TV How Dark, Female-Led British Comedies Are Taking Over America From Fleabag to This Way Up, TV that brings lightness to dark. #improv #comedy #secrets Her original Seeso series with wife Rhea Butcher Take My Wife; Several appearances on the late night circuit including Conan & Chelsea Lately; An awesome episode of Drunk History and BuzzFeed's video series "Ask a Lesbian"; Why she's on the cusp Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for BRITISH COMEDY ACTOR, JACK HULBERT autographed Tuck & Sons Real Photograph at the best online prices at eBay! In this special, she continues to discuss married life and the horrors of motherhood, everything from breast-feeding to smelling a babys diaper. In fact, Not Normal is more about universal topics like family and aging. He left school to work in the shipyards, becoming a welder, and joined the Territorial Army (in the parachute regiment) at around the same time. This show is a true gem of British comedy, and its cast is one of the funniest and most talented groups of actors out there. She won the Nivea Funny Women Award, a comedy competition in the UK, and was runner-up in the Amused Moose Laugh-Off competition in 2008. You may be familiar with her from her appearances on Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow, Im a CelebrityGet Me Out of Here! They're different. Shes the bawdy aunt that wont mind if you take a drag off her cigarette or a sip from her wine glass while your parents arent looking. These women show that they are bold, vibrant, and brave when it comes to observing, commenting, and helping everyone laugh at this crazy world. She delivers her routine to her husband. Ali Wong was a writer on ABCs Fresh Off the Boat for a few seasons. Iliza Shlesinger has a wonderfully weird way of doing her comedy that combines voices and characters. She addresses difficult topics like the prejudices faced by the LGBTQ community, assault, and mental health. Its just another day, and I still felt the need to turn down the volume in my headphones going home earlier when a man was walking too close behind me. One of the most underrated British comedians ever, Rosie Jones doesn't let cerebral palsy get in the way of her career. You can check out her comedy by clicking here and here. Lucy Porter Elder Millennial depicts Iliza Shlesingers life at 35 as a newly engaged woman. I also urge you to buy her book The Other Mother which you can purchase on Amazon via this link. as well as her presenting on Jo Brand Through the Cakehole and Jo Brands Big Splash. Heavy-drinking, drug-abusing best friends Edina Monsoon and Patsy Stone were the perfect creations for the boozy nineties. He is now determined to spend more time with his wife Heather and daughter Molly, or Little Mo as he calls her. as well as her presenting on Jo Brand Through the Cakehole and Jo Brands Big Splash. She delivers her routine to her husband. So, having trouble in ranking female stand up comedians? Even though we know it'll probably be short-lived, it'd likely be interesting. The film choice will ensure you that you wont miss the hilarious Awkwafina there. So, if you are tired and yet feel guilty of being tired without doing anything, tune in to these female comedians shows. During her stay at Studio 8H, Leslie Jones was very funny. I also urge you to buy her book The Other Mother which you can purchase on Amazon via this, . 1. by Kyle. 31:17. Early Television roles include Vera alongside Sir John Gielgud in The . Marina Franklins Single Black Female hilariously examines the pressures and struggles of being black and a woman in todays politically driven society. She may not exactly engage in crowd work but, as Slate puts it, she is essentially [flirting] with 400 people. Shes so damn excited to see the audience that its difficult not to radiate that elation back at her.Clare Martin, Wanda Sykes has never been one to dance around a point, and lands many direct hits throughout Not Normal. Whitney Cummings 4. On this platform, many comics, experts, and celebrities give their interviews. The United Kingdom has also produced some of the finest female stand up comedians. Stream Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted HERE. Considered to be one of the most pivotal stars of the early days of Hollywood, Charlie Chaplin lived an interesting life both in his films and behind the camera. British stand up comedians like Josh Widdicombe, Sarah Millican, and James Acaster, have their claims to the 'funniest British comic' title as well. Shes a familiar name for fans of Broad City, which she wrote for, and the podcast 2 Dope Queens, on which shes often appeared. These are some of my favorite. She is trained in competitive dancing, sings opera,. Ali Wongs comedic style is often raunchy, unapologetic, and physical. He appeared at the Eric Morecambe was born on May 14, 1926 in Buxton Street, Morecambe, Lancashire, England, UK. 3. What to Do When I Dont Know What to Do With My Life? She treats the dating world like a fairytale with old hags, and fantasy stories like Lord of the Rings, where a womans engagement ring taunts others. You will receive a verification email shortly. Lena Dunham DFree / Shutterstock.com Dunham is best known for her work on HBO's Girls. Aubrey Plaza 3. He was afforded a private . Popular opinion suggests that on Saturday night Live Kate McKinnon can be one of the funniest individuals. You can check out some of her comedy here and here. Born on 2 December 1983, she is one of the most promising actresses in Hollywood and among the new black female comedians. He was taught metal work at school by the actor Steve Coogan's dad, and like Coogan he was an altar boy. And, like most comics, she pokes fun at herself for her lack of a fitness regimen beyond lifting her arm to drink wine and fool her Fitbit.Robert Ham, Ms. Pats led a rough life, to say the leastshe had two children, fathered by a man eight years her senior who had sexually abused her since she was 12, and by age 15 and started selling crack to support them. She tackles all the big things like sex, violence, religion, and racism. Caroline Aherne Actress | The Royle Family Her physical comedy is slight, but effective: the occasional flourish here and there to punctuate a bit, but nothing ever too over-the-top. Karl Wiggins (Goodreads Author) (shelved 4 times as british-comedy) avg rating 4.15 182 ratings published 2015. Please refresh the page and try again. Many stand-up comedians incorporate their experience as members of the LGBTQ community into their sets. She is also a famous face on the silver screen as she recently acted in Blackish, the ABC show. She has also criticized misogyny through her show Douglas. You can watch both the shows on Netflix. Iliza Shlesinger made her comedic debut by winning Last Comic Standing in 2008. Her first book, How to Be Champion, was released in 2017, and Millican has performed on various tours mainly throughout the United Kingdom over the years. She then went on to star in and produce NBCs short-lived series Whitney, which she based loosely on her own life. She's worked on Channel 4 shows like The Last Leg and 8 Out . Thank you for signing up to CinemaBlend. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. the best British female comedians of 2023! If you want to catch up with her, follow her on every streaming platform. Thomas & Friends Tokyo maintenance factory for unique toys RiChannel. Charisma doesnt even begin to describe how magnetic and electrifying her presence is. Whether youre just looking for a laugh or want a hilarious take-down of the patriarchy, theres something for you in these 20 Netflix specials by women comedians. He died on June 10, 1993 in Manchester, England, UK. Unfortunately, though, institutional sexism once again came to the fore (if it ever really went away) in 2009 when British comedian Jo Brand made the claim that female comedians on the panel show Mock the Week struggled to "get a word in edgeways" and that they . Have I Got News For You and QI. Also, if you loved watching American Housewives, you know Ali Wong was the main starrer there. Stream Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles HERE. 2. You can check out some of her comedy by clicking, Lucy Porter is an English comedian and actress, who you may be familiar with from her appearances on shows such as Annually Retentive, Have I Got News For You, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, QI and Mock the Week. If you want to know more about them and draw your inspiration, read this article till the end. It may contain familiar material for those who have been following Bamfords work for a while, but is nevertheless an hour of material that delights. Harry Enfield was born on May 30, 1961 in Horsham, Sussex [now West Sussex], England, UK. 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars. As an actress she has appeared in the Channel 4 sitcom Campus, BBC Two sitcom Episodes and Don't Sit in the Front Row with Jack Dee. This list may not reflect recent changes . You can check out her comedy by clicking. The panel show sees Lemon and two team captains, Laura Whitmore and Emily Atack, participate in various games and challenges that include pop culture references throughout the show. One of Britain's most beloved eccentric comedians, the irrepressible, gap-toothed Terry-Thomas was born Thomas Terry Hoar-Stevens in Lichfield Grove, Finchley. Spent most of my life in various parts of Illinois, including attending college in Evanston. Nowadays, she has started her podcast, the site of making fun of her romantic life. She was an actress and writer, known for The Royle Family (1998), Mrs Merton & Malcolm (1999) and The Fast Show (1994). Known mainly from the Girl Code, Nicole Bye is one of the stand-up industry risen stars. These comedians have proved that British Asian comedy has provided Britain with some of the best television, film and stand-up. He has become one of Britain's most famous, versatile and respected actors, who is most famous for his role in Only Fools and Horses (1981) as Del Boy. Add this name at the top! Screenrant has ranked Hannah Gadsby as the top 1 comedian on Netflix. 21. It's Harry and Paul (2007). It was during this time that he met Glenn Melvyn, who taught him how to stammer Often credited as the greatest comedian of all time, Peter Sellers was born Richard Henry Sellers to a well-off acting family in 1925 in Southsea, a suburb of Portsmouth. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa and named Solomon Joel Cohen, James arrived in England in 1946, second wife Sir Norman Wisdom has become the great British clown in the mold of Sir Charles Chaplin with his little man in the ill fitting suit and cloth cap. But scanning through the list of unfunny sitcoms and sketch show misfires, broken only here and . Top 10 British Comedians The Top Ten 1 Russell Howard Russell Joseph Howard is an English comedian, television and radio presenter and actor, best known for his TV show Russell Howard's Good News and his appearances on the topical panel TV show Mock the Week. She has starred in her T.V. Hicks material includes a wide range of religion, politics, and philosophy. Many a millennial comedian tries to deconstruct the traditional comedy formula; Tomlinson decides to work within that frame, but make it entirely her own with gut-busting goofs.Clare Martin, In her Netflix special Joke Show, Michelle Wolf jumps into her set immediatelyno introductions, no opening goofs to ease us in, just straight into an otter rape bit. He was born Alfred Hawthorn Hill. He is an actor and writer, known for Kevin & Perry Go Large (2000), Harry & Paul's Story of the 2s (2014) and Ruddy Hell! The star of the Carry On series of films, Sid James originally came to prominence as sidekick to the ground breaking British comedy actor Tony Hancock, on both radio and then television. Going for a song: Comedian Benny Hill was inspired by British singer Alma Cogan for his new look. Maria Bamford delivers her routine into a mirror. Well, does the name suggest something of a revolution? His parents worked in an acting company run by his Spike was born an 'Army Brat', the son of an Irish Captain in the British Raj in India. He was the son of Agnes Doreen "Peg" (Marks) and William "Bill" Sellers. Actress, comedian, writer. She's also performed at comedy festivals around the world. You currently stream The Duchess season 1 on Netflix. Jo Brand is an English comedian and former psychiatric nurse noted for her observation and alternative comedy, especially on the topics of marriage and politics, as well as body image. Also, did you know her brother is also the co-founder and CEO of Buzzfeed? Vote up the best British stand up comedians of 2023, and help decide who are the funniest English comedians this year! The dirtiness of her jokes is only matched by her creative use of language and enthusiastic physical comedy. So with that in mind, I decided to do a Top 10 list of my favourite comedians working in the UK today, Ive broken them down into Male and Female, you are currently reading the female version and you can click here to check out the male version. Another Wonder-woman of Netflix lot of female comedians is Wanda Sykes. The best music, movies, TV, books, comedy and more. Gang Show. If you read this article, you will log in to your Netflix account right after binge-watching their shows! His 2012 television series Kevin Bridges: What's the Story? She entered into the world of stand-up comedy by making an appearance in the 2010 TV show Africa Laughs. Matt Wolf, writing in The New York Times, said . You may be familiar with her from her appearances on Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow, Im a CelebrityGet Me Out of Here! Maria Bamford: Old Baby. Roisin Conaty (born 26 March 1979) is an English comedian, writer, and actor. She quickly became a favorite with fans who enjoyed her earnest portrayal of the iconic character, putting her own twist on Wonder . With multiple successful podcasts, roles on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Unicorn, and the reboot of Rugrats, and a slew of other voice and live credits to her name, it is high time the world gets to experience an hour of Nicole Byers stand-up. Part of why this works is her quick connection with the audience. Dont expect anything like a traditional stand-up show, which is one of its strengths. Stream Marina Franklin: Single Black Female HERE (opens in new tab). You could call her the Goldilocks of comedy, the way that she ensures that everything, from the set up to the punchline, is just right. Most people recognize Wong for her roles in the Netflix movie Always Be My Maybe and the sitcom American Housewife. She hosted the Saturday Live Show episode as the first woman of color. So if you want to list the famous female comedians on the internet, you must not miss her name. Ali Wong is only 37, but she already has two hit standup specials she recorded while pregnant: "Baby Cobra" and "Hard Knock Wife." She stars in the Netflix romantic comedy, "Always Be My Maybe". Lucille Ball. She has given her voice in that film. Rosie Jones. Jo Brand He is most recognized as an icon of the silent film era, often associated with his popular character, the Little Tramp; the man with the Ronnie Barker's remarkable versatility as a performer can be traced back to his time in repertory theatre, where he was able to play a wide range of roles and develop his talent for accents, voices and verbal dexterity. Who are the funniest British female comedians of 2023? Mindy Kaling 9. Margaret Cho has been nominated for awards in music, television, and film. However, she didnt have to look back after this breakthrough. She delivers her routine to four . Marco Signed Young Women Kathleen With Red Flowers In Her Hair Tuck Postcard. Wanda Sykes showed off her sharp wit as a writer on The Chris Rock Show. You can check out her comedy by clicking here and here. Mindy Kaling acted in The Office as Kelly Kapoor, the famous drama queen. (Photos via Netflix) Chelsea Peretti: If you miss Chelsea Peretti as Gina Linetti on Brooklyn Nine-Nine as much as we do, take this opportunity to watch her Netflix stand-up special, One of the Greats. Sara Pascoe Hannah Gadsbys most prominent work is being a co-writer and a recurring character on the comedy series Please Like Me. Wanda Sykes was born on December 6, 1964, in Portsmouth, Virginia. Such is the framework of Maria Bamford: Old Baby. So, without further ado, here's 15 Female Led British Sitcoms You May Have Missed: 1. You may be familiar with her from her appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Have I Got News for You, Mock the Week, You Have Been Watching, Would I Lie to You?, QI and Never Mind the Buzzcocks. Following her video of her first trying of Kombucha, Brittany Broski went up the path of becoming the most memorable comedic stars of TikTok. Have I Got News For You and QI. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. She also has a role in the 2018 family comedy Instant Family, which stars Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne. She started to gain even more recognition and fame when Netflix released her special Nanette in 2018. The bench segues back inside a house. Ranking the best, funniest, and most original stand-up comedians and comic actors. Educated in a series of Roman Catholic schools in India and at Lewisham Polytechnic in England, he spent his formative years playing the fool and playing the trumpet in local jazz bands.He joined the British Rik Mayall, one of the first and foremost alternative comedians in the UK, was born in a village called Matching Tye, just outside Harlow in Essex. The Daily Sleeper Clothes: Stay Fabulous and. He found that he enjoyed it tremendously, but when he raised the possibility at home of becoming an actor, his father forbade it. The Grammy and Emmy nominated Boyish Girl Interrupted is Tig Notaros first special with HBO. Comedy World Cup She delivers her routine to four individuals sitting on a bench outside her house. The entire series of Please Like Me is available on Hulu. If a woman conquers the comedy stage, you wont be able to leave your seat for the next few hours. Stream Whitney Cummings: Im Your Girlfriend HERE. So, when the debate of who performs better comedies has come up, the pendulum has automatically shifted towards the males. When I'm not writing about pop culture, I can be found channeling Gordon Ramsay by kicking people out the kitchen. He was a writer and actor, known for Demob (1993), The Loner (1975) and Sounds Like Les Dawson (1974). Stream Iliza Shlesinger: Elder Millennial HERE (opens in new tab). The BBC's comedy czars have put out their wares at online to celebrate the best of British comedy. If you want to witness her performance online, switch your tv to comedy central and watch Awkwafina is Nora from Queens. He developed an interest in folk music, eventually being an accomplished banjo player and a His father Ken was born in Co Durham, he married Vera and together took over her family's greengrocers shop in Quick Road, Chiswick, London. You may be familiar with her from her appearances on QI, Have I Got News for You and Would I Lie to You? College is a thrilling time in every students life. Since the dawn of civilizations, laughter has been predominantly associated with men. You can check out some of her comedy by clicking here and here. Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. It also basically eschews the rock star comedian treatment that can get a little exhausting and rob the special of its intimacy. Women of British Comedy - Part 1 Wesley McCammon 3.21K subscribers Subscribe 107 Share Save 38K views 8 years ago I have loved British Comedy since I was a boy. Variety ranked her in the top 10 comics. 9. I strongly urge you to check out her podcast with the talented Tom Allen, which you can do by clicking, . The recent show is a Netflix hit titled Stage Fright. Everyone loves to laugh, Ive always enjoyed comedy, not just for its capacity to make people happy, but also for its ability to poke and prod at the social fabric, and tackle topics which otherwise might be taboo. View all posts by Tom Neil. Opening the show as her own warm-up act, she dances with the audience as if shes in a crowded bar buying everybody a round of shots. Tig Notaro never misses a beat as she uses physical comedy and snapshots of her life to bring the audience into her world. Its a method thats as hilarious as it is jarring, propelling her humor to new heights.Clare Martin, What makes this hour of material so refreshing is that, unfortunately, everything Jen Kirkman discusses are the sort of subjects that women are supposed to be ashamed about in our culture. Everyone has had that sense of pure dread as they wave at a friend only to learn seconds later that its a complete stranger. Female British comedians like Katherine Ryan, Kerry Godliman and Sarah Millican have their claims to the title as well. Yes, Slate laughs at her own jokes, but you dont mind because it feels like youre listening to your funniest friend relay stories (just, you know, very casually under a spotlight). Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, Nearly 70% of retirees will need long-term care. If you wait for celebrity cameos of Maya Rudolph or Megan Thee Stallion, then wait for her to appear on your screen! It was only the tip of her kingdom of humor. Shappi Khorsandi is noted for her observational and Black comedy, as well as dealing with topics such as Iranian culture, British politics and culture and everyday life. The event happened in a 1997 episode called The Puppy Episode." He was educated at Durlston Court, Swanage, and Bradfield College, Reading. Yvonne Orji is a Nigerian-American actress and comedian. and Never Mind the Buzzcocks to name a few. Im Your Girlfriend is a 2016 HBO special--her first for the premium network. You can even tune in to her podcasts. Happy International Womens Day or, as I like to call it, March 8. He toured with British comedian Dave Gorman from 2011 to 2012. Most, if not all comedians, use their own personal experience to construct their comedy, but its unique in how it feels. She was also a writer on the HBO series Divorce. Jackie "Moms" Mabley, born Loretta Mary Aiken, was a comedy pioneer credited with being the first female standup comedian. Celebrity guests join in on the fun each week. who I also really enjoyed but didnt quite make the top 10 list. Ali Wong makes you fall down laughing with her oversharing approach to motherhood woes. Like much of Sarah Silvermans career, We Are Miracles dives head first into taboo topics. You can check out her comedy by clicking here and here. What Does an Expat Management Package Include? Whether a British comedian is observational, dark, situational, absurdist, blue collar, abstract, alternative, or a long form storyteller, all of the funniest UK comedians are unique, hardworking, and hilarious. Stream Hannah Gadsby: Nanette HERE (opens in new tab). Elder Millennial is the fourth of Iliza Shlesingers five Netflix specials. The queen of indie comedy announced herself as a sweet-natured woman-child, making not so much shows as scrapbooks of the things that made her big heart burst. Madigan has a lot of fun early on in the hour throwing her home state of Missouri, and the people in it, under the bus for their redneck-leaning ways, like the debate that went on for two weeks in the state senate about the legality of noodling (catching catfish in muddy rivers using just your hands). The way in which the special cuts from crowd to crowdsoftly, subtly, without making much of a deal about it at allis wonderful. She premiered her first special on Netflix in 2014. sitcoms, primetime shows, and specials. List Gallery Activity Black British women comedians 14T format_list_bulleted expand_more English women comedians 202T format_list_bulleted expand_more Scottish women comedians Popular on Netflix Katt Williams: World War III The Standups Theo Von: Regular People Jeff Dunham: Beside Himself Dave Chappelle: The Closer Best of Stand-Up 2022 Mike Epps: Only One Mike 2. Acaster has performed for several consecutive years at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where he has been, Jon Richardson may refer to: 8. Hanna Gadsby 15. Sarah Jane Millican (ne King; born 29 May 1975) is an English comedian. Bill Hicks. Buy Now. Becoming a great stand-up comic is tough and there's plenty of competition these days. The Best Shows That Star Stand-Up Comedians, Ricky Dene Gervais (born 25 June 1961) is an English comedian, actor, director and writer best known for co-creating, co-writing and acting in the British television mockumentary sitcom The Office, Michael John Flanagan (born 7 October 1962) is an English comedian.