British comedian Sam Nicoresti has become the first trans woman to win an award for Best Comedy Show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The show Baby Doomer explores life as a trans woman and won the Taffner Family best comedy show prize at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards.
The hour-long show was described as a ‘glistening new stand-up show’ from ‘burgeoning trans icon Sam Nicoresti’.
Nica Burns, director of the awards, said: ‘Sam Nicoresti’s Baby Doomer is a masterfully woven, polished and delightfully human show that captures an essential moment with, to paraphrase her words, laughs by the seconds.
‘Packed with relatable set pieces that linger long after, Sam is a fresh, bright voice that we need in 2025.’
Ayoade Bamgboye picked up the best newcomer award for her debut show Swings and Roundabouts.
Described as the most prestigious prizes in the world of comedy, the Edinburgh Comedy Awards have been running since 1981.
Ms Burns added: ‘Our 2025 winners capture the spirit of comedy right now: bold, brilliant, and deeply connected to audiences.
British comedian Sam Nicoresti (pictured) has become the first trans woman to win an award for Best Comedy Show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Pictured: The nominees for the Best Comedy Show award in the 45th Edinburgh Comedy Awards 2025 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
‘In very different ways, they’ve each created shows that feel utterly of this moment, sparking laughter while saying something lasting.
‘Together, they remind us why the Fringe matters, a place where the freshest voices can shine. The future of British comedy is in excellent hands.’
She continued: ‘Ayoade Bamgboye’s debut hour is electric, constantly keeping you on your toes.
‘What begins as an everyday anecdote about the Co-op unfolds into a rich, often surreal world, layered with profound emotional depth.’
The other shows nominated for the Taffner Family best comedy show gong were: Dan Tiernan: All In; Ed Night: Your Old Mucker; Ian Smith: Foot Spa Half Empty; John Tothill: This Must Be Heaven; Katie Norris: Go West, Old Maid; Sam Jay: We The People; and Creepy Boys: SLUGS.
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Trans woman scoops award for Best Comedy Show at the Edinburgh Fringe