Sydney May has been crowned the winner of Comedy Bloomers' LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2025 competition. She triumphed at the live final at London's Clapham Grand, beating eight other finalists in front of an audience of over 500 comedy enthusiasts.

Hailing from Brighton, Sydney's style is a blend of personal insight and bold, original observational humor. Her set focused on her lived experiences as a blind and queer person, earning her praise for her "razor-sharp delivery, original material, and undeniable stage charisma."

Sydney expressed her gratitude, saying, "I can honestly say I did not see this coming. I'm beyond thankful for my awesome family and friends who have supported me from the beginning and for the unbiased strangers who somehow find me funny. This award means the world - not just as recognition, but as a reminder that laughter really does break down barriers."

The judging panel consisted of Zoe Lyons, Jessica Fostekew, James Barr, and Tia Kofi. James Barr was particularly impressed, commenting, "All of your jokes are perfectly constructed, so funny, brilliantly written and surprising. I honestly think you're ready for Live At The Apollo right now!"

The judges chose Sean Barnham and Dominic McGovern as the runner-up positions. The final marked the culmination of a nationwide search for the UK's freshest queer comedy talent, following six live nationwide heats and two semi-finals, hosted by Matthew Ali.

The competition will return in 2026, with applications opening later this year. The final will be broadcast on the streaming channel OUTFlix on 31st July.