#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS TORONTO 2025 WRAPS

The 2025 edition of Just For Laughs Toronto marked a triumphant return to the city. From sold-out shows and doubleheader nights to late-night drop-ins and breakout sets, the Festival brought together comedy lovers, artists, and the city. See some of our highlights here!

Comedy heavyweights, viral sensations, and local favourites brought comedy energy to every corner of Toronto. Over the course of 10 days more than 150 artists performed across 9 venues, drawing an estimated 44,000 attendees. Across digital audiences, over 5 million engaged with Just For Laughs Toronto on Instagram, affirming the city’s demand for comedy is stronger than ever.

This year’s curated selection of headliners and fan favourites included Gabriel Iglesias, Sarah Millican, Ron Funches, Dropout Improv, Zarna Garg, Maria Bamford, Patti Harrison, Al Madrigal, and Connor O’Malley, alongside standout sets from local stars including Ashwyn Singh, Hamoodi, Alistair Ogden, and more. The festival footprint spread out across the city at Meridian Hall, Scotiabank Arena, Elgin Theatre, Bluma Appel Theatre, Randolph Theatre, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Second City and both Comedy Bar Bloor and Danforth locations.

Beyond the stage, Just For Laughs Toronto continued its mission to discover, develop, and deliver the best in comedy. The Festival serves as a launchpad for rising comedians from Toronto, across Canada, and around the world, offering opportunities to perform alongside established stars. Through a dynamic mix of live showcases, strategic industry partnerships, and filmed content, JFL nurtures emerging voices while delivering world-class comedy experiences to audiences both locally and globally.

“Toronto is a vital part of Canada’s comedy landscape and we are thrilled to be back ,” said Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President & CEO of Just For Laughs. “With the incredible support of local audiences, the dedication of exceptional world-class artists, and Toronto’s undeniable hunger for comedy, we witnessed a powerful resurgence of creative energy. We’re proud of this renewed momentum and deeply grateful for the unforgettable moments it brought to life.”

Just For Laughs Toronto would like to thank partners TO Live, Ontario Heritage Trust, Comedy Bar and W Hotel.

ABOUT JUST FOR LAUGHS

Created in 1983, Just For Laughs is a world leader in comedy. Just For Laughs organises numerous festivals, including the world’s largest comedy festival in Montréal. The company has launched the careers of many renowned comedians and entertained millions of spectators each year through its festivals and content broadcast in more than 150 countries. Just For Laughs manages the careers of artists and produces shows, musicals, television series and films. Just For Laughs is a leading brand of the Just For Entertainment Group which, since its foundation in 1997, has established itself as an international leader in creating a world of entertainment. Just For Entertainment was historically known as ComediHa!

Connect with Just For Laughs:
Facebook: facebook.com/justforlaughs
Instagram: @justforlaughs
YouTube: @justforlaughs
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/justforlaughs/

#JFLTORONTO: JUST FOR LAUGHS TORONTO 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Promising ten days of non-stop laughter, JUST FOR LAUGHS TORONTO is back finally and despite being a bit more humble this go, there are plenty of great entertainers – local and international – in-town to bring the laughter! The Festival runs September 18 to 27, 2025 and here are the names who defined the Festival! Check back daily as we add updated reviews to help in your planning!

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AL MADRIGAL

Former Daily Show “Senior Latino Correspondent” Al Madrigal delivered an extended set at the Bluma Appel Theatre. He mused on the cutoff for telling your son the truth about Santa and the Tooth Fairy, when to stop pranking your “little psycho” dad on April Fools Day, and what can happen when you pound a free can of ‘Go Girl’ in Rochester. He also shared his experiences buying unlicensed piñatas for his kids’ birthdays, and how best to “jack IN” your dog. – Nicholas Porteous

RON FUNCHES

Ron Funches returned to Just For Laughs Toronto with a hilarious and contagiously gleeful set about raising his second son, going through his second divorce, and his endless internal struggle over whether he should be a good parent or ‘just eat cookies and die.’ He gave touching insight into the kind of lasting love we all deserve, before ramping into extreme detail about his visions of the Obamas’ sex life. And taking his eldest son to Wrestlemania fuels some incredible laughs at legend John Cena’s expense. Funches performed two shows at Randolph Theatre (736 Bathurst Street). Our only regret is not catching him sooner! – Nicholas Porteous

GABRIEL “FLUFFY” IGLESIAS

Toronto had the absolute honour and pleasure of having Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias at Scotiabank Arena for one of the first stops on his 1976 Tour, which started with some openers including Matt Golighty and Martin Moreno, the latter a frequent opener and collaborator with Fluffy. After the openers, we were informed there was a signed (1/50) poster by Fluffy and a meet and greet opportunity backstage – rest assured, this is not a Diddy Party – they assured audiences.

Fluffy went on for an unprecedented two hours and went nearly 30 minutes past curfew, ensuring that everyone got their money’s worth at the show. He told us that he is being sued by singer Bobby McFerrin for $750k because his last tour was named ‘Don’t Worry Be Fluffy’ and he’s still working through it. – Justin Waldman

ZARNA GARG

Things are happening quickly for this Indian-American Queen of Comedy who not only recently opened for Tina Fey & Amy Poehler on their tour, she also starred in acclaimed 2025 film A NICE INDIAN BOY. Toronto got lucky this year to see Zarna Garg at Elgin Theatre two nights at JFL Toronto 2025, bringing her unique perspective and “Indian Auntie logic”, before the sold-out crowds, drawing big laughs from the audience. Whether she’s joking about the very specific needs of brown people versus white people, her mother-in-law or her now-adult kids’ dating lives, she promises an enlightened experience where the audience will leave the show enlightened and wiser. And wiser we are with her energetic wisdom! – Mr. Will

BRITTANY SCHMITT

On the first night of JFL Toronto, we went to the Comedy Bar on Bloor West to see Brittany Schmitt. Before her show started, she had two openers consisting of Karis Anderson and Crystal Ferrier, who both absolutely slayed and got us all amped-up for Brittany to grace the main stage. Anderson and Ferrier played to their strengths (gender stereotypes and cultural comedy), the laughter was uproarious.

Schmitt’s hilarious set consisted of a more crude and vulgar humour – but if you’ve seen her Comedy before, this is truly what is expected. If you haven’t, think a combination of the sexual jokes of Sarah Silverman and the depravity and darkness of Nikki Glaser. She delivered a 60-plus minute set that involved some crowd work, including ripping on some Gen Z audience members who thought ‘their phones were more entertaining’. The set was honest, hilarious, and dark, a name to look out for! – Justin Waldman

ABBY GOVINDAN

28-year old Abby Govindan described her completely self-inflicted viral fame in “Pushing 30”. From the day she issued a formal apology for calling people from the San Fransisco Bay area “annoying” to the extended saga when she pretended to be the creator of Emily in Paris. She also shouted out her dad’s copious use of emojis, everyone’s reluctance to publicly admit they know who Mia Khalifa is, and running into ‘Pakistani uncles’ all over the place. – Nicholas Porteous

SABRINA WU

This up-and-coming Comedian caught our eye first in the raunchy Comedy ROAD TRIP and we’ve been a huge fan since. While this isn’t Wu‘s first Just for Laughs Toronto run, we were eager to see more and they did not disappoint, back with one show at each Comedy Bar location on the west and east end of the City. Awkward sexual jokes and a blend of heartfelt personal anecdotes that explore the American-Chinese cultural conflict growing-up in the U.S. highlight the set, jampacked with supporting talent, including their coming out story to their grandma after a tragic accident! Need more Wu, who recently was seen in Apple TV+‘s MURDERBOT. – Mr. Will

JACOB BALSHIN

Things have taken off very quickly for local hero Jacob Balshin, whose viral food reels, which work both as deadpan satire and actual “influencing”. But does that translate to an actual live Comedy Show? The answer is a resounding yes! Balshin certainly knows how to bring the laughs with a range that spans from local humour, to raunchy jokes (he literally ad libbed a song about circumcision), commentary about the messed-up state of Toronto, to endearing family anecdotes. Very impressed he was able to fill his entire timeslot with polish, yet still have something for another show at a sister Comedy Bar on the opposite end of the City on a 30-minute turnaround. – Mr. Will

TODD BARRY

This veteran Comedian shone bright at Randolph Theatre, putting his mastery of crowdwork on full display. A fan in the front row taught him a new word “clown”, as in making a clown out of someone and he went to town with the word, sparing no victims in his vicinity! Barry, with his signature deadpan delivery, also amused the crowd with funny anecdotes about brushing his cat Michaeleen‘s teeth, which had the audience in stitches. – Mr. Will

CHLOE RADCLIFFE

Chloe Radcliffe has been tipped to be one of the next big breakout stars in Comedy. The New York native delivered a frenetic hour of Comedy at Comedy Bar, one of two shows, flexing her two-time national championship debate-winning skills with various audience members over what she should call her mailing list, and alternative names for Oakville. She also called out which parts of the body should be okay to stare at, jokes that are too mean to say in Canada, and why hooking up with a strange mailman is a kink unto itself. – Nicholas Porteous

PATTI HARRISON

Patti Harrison delivered an explosive, mind-bending set which morphed from jokes to heartfelt ruminations to a McDonald’s-coded powerpoint presentation, a PSA, and finally a podcast comprised of audience volunteers who “didn’t look like they wanted to do it”. She checked-in about the state of her Comedy, what defines “normal” looking people, the duality of porn and true crime, and why the venue probably didn’t trust her to have control of the lighting. She made sure at least a few people in the audience were high-fiving at the right moments. – Nicholas Porteous

COREY B

We first discovered Corey B during Covid with his food reels which made him a viral sensation. His commentaries and sometimes recipe duplications brought us great joy. Looking back, this proved a successful move, leaving audiences wanting more of his boisterous humour and quick wit and now they have a chance to see him live. Marriage jokes, a forced healthy lifestyle (after his wife overcame a terminal illness), and bidet humour highlight his act, playing at Randolph Theatre to a packed house of enthused fans who live for his bathroom humour! – Mr. Will

MARIA BAMFORD

Maria Bamford rocked the Bluma Appel Theatre on JFL Toronto 2025’s closing weekend. She brought her signature Comedy to a completely sold-out theatre, gave an audience member $20 Canadian because “the audience never gets paid for their participation”. Bamford delivered a well-rounded and great 60-odd minute set. She talked about everything from politics, briefly including apologizing for her country, doing jobs (weirdly for Grimace), and some jokes about her abode and where she resides in Los Angeles. If you’ve never seen Bamford before, check her recorded specials, she is a must-see! – Justin Waldman

DROP OUT IMPROV

Dropout Improv took over Meridian Hall and delivered a stellar evening of short form games, scenes and spontaneous songs. They explored a first date (or “big FD”) at a casino, a town hall regarding a turtle takeover (full of Torontonians with embarrassing names), and what happens when you find your old Tamagotchi in the attic—and it’s not happy to see you. They also staged a proposal at a haunted house in Niagara Falls, and spent a good chunk of the evening dissecting an unauthorized, AI-generated promo image for the show, as well as the mean comments in the group chat it inspired. – Nicholas Porteous

HIGHLIGHTS PART TWO:

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More here.

(Photo/video credit: Nicholas Porteous/Justin Waldman/Mr. Will Wong)

#JFLTORONTO: AN OPEN LETTER FROM SYLVAIN PARENT-BÉDARD, PRESIDENT & CEO OF JUST FOR LAUGHS

An Open Letter from Sylvain Parent-Bédard
President and CEO of Juste pour rire / Just For Laughs

Comedy and freedom of expression

When a comedian is silenced, it’s far more than a voice being muffled. It’s a fundamental right under threat. It’s freedom being gagged. It’s democracy being weakened.

I am Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President and CEO of Juste pour rire / Just For Laughs, a major cultural institution in Québec and Canada, and one of the largest comedy institutions in the world.

I have always stood for a value that is dear to me: freedom of expression. A precious freedom, sometimes unsettling, but absolutely essential. It is the cornerstone of every democratic society. Without it, dialogue fades, thought becomes uniform, and fear takes hold.

What is currently happening in the United States, with the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! following overt political pressure, is deeply troubling. It sets a dangerous precedent. An alarm that echoes far beyond American borders.

State censorship, under the direct influence of a political figure, is a disturbing drift. It chills anyone who still believes in democracy. This is no longer about the exchange of ideas. It is ideological repression. And when that repression targets humor, it strikes at one of the last bastions of raw freedom and unfiltered truth.

In response, we are seeing courageous voices rise from the cultural and artistic community; organizations like the Writers Guild of America, the Directors Guild of America, and many artists, including Jimmy Fallon; standing up to denounce the unacceptable and support Jimmy Kimmel.

And they are right.

This is not a simple dispute between a comedian and those in power. It is a global wake-up call. A warning to all free societies.

In countries where humor is no longer welcome, dictatorships often take root. Laughter is a counter-power. It asks questions. It disturbs. It exposes absurdities, abuses, and flaws. And that is precisely why it is essential. Humor is a high form of freedom. It is the mirror of our societies; sometimes distorted, but always revealing.

Let me say it loud and clear: At Just For Laughs, we will always defend the right to make people laugh. To provoke. To reflect. To shock, at times. To create. To speak the unspeakable. To give voice to what some would rather silence.

I salute Jimmy Kimmel’s courage, and I call on the entire comedy industry, around the world, to stand tall. Now more than ever. Comedians, writers, producers, agents, managers, broadcasters, unions, festivals: let us unite, because humor and laughter often have the power to change the world.

And to all the comedians I have the privilege of working with, admiring, and defending; you carry an immense responsibility, but also an incomparable strength. Keep speaking out. Keep making us laugh. Keep making us think. We stand with you. In solidarity. With resolve. Unshakably.

Moreover, I cannot help but think of comedian Mike Ward, right here in Canada. He fought for nearly a decade; all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada; to defend his right to humor, to provocation, to irreverence. Whether one agrees with the content of his jokes or not is beside the point. What he defended was the fundamental principle that humor must not be censored out of fear of offending or shocking. His victory was not personal; it was a victory for all artists, all creators, and all societies that value their freedom. It drew a clear line: humor is not a crime. It is a necessity.

When laughter is silenced, the light goes out. And a society that loses its humor loses its ability to speak the truth. It loses its humanity.

Freedom of expression is not a luxury. It is not a privilege reserved for those who think like us. It is a universal right. And that right is not up for debate. It must be protected. Proclaimed. Defended. Together. Now.

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#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS TORONTO EXPANDS 2025 LINEUP

Just For Laughs Toronto continues to expand with additional headliners and programming announced for the 2025 lineup. From acclaimed comedians to rising voices in comedy, JFL Toronto will welcome an exciting range of performers including viral superstars Zarna Garg, Mojo Brookzz, and Corey B, festival favourites Patti Harrison and Amanda Montell’s The Big Magical Cult Show, homegrown trailblazer Sunthar V, 2025 JFL New Face Chloe Radcliffe, hot off their success at JFL Vancouver Sabrina Wu, among others. Just For Laughs Toronto also announced the anticipated return of the iconic Alternative Show hosted by master of impressions, James Adomian, and Late Bad hosted by Laura Cilevitz, Ben Sosa-Wright and Mark Little taking place at Comedy Bar alongside a curated selection of the best of the Toronto scene including solo, mixed-bill and concept shows with top emerging talent. Just For Laughs Toronto takes place September 18–27 across multiple venues across the city. Tickets are available at TORONTO.HAHAHA.COM.

“We’re thrilled to unveil our second wave of incredible talent for Just For Laughs Toronto—this lineup brings even more excitement, energy, and world-class comedy to the city and spotlights some of the best from the Toronto comedy scene. We can’t wait to share the laughs,” said Nick Brazao, JFL’s Head of Programming and Talent

Newly announced lineup includes:

ABBY GOVINDAN: September 22 @ 8:30pm, Comedy Bar – Danforth
Abby Govindan is a stand-up comedian and writer based in New York City. She got her start in comedy at the age of 20, making her comedic debut at Caroline’s on Broadway in New York City in December of 2017. Since starting comedy, Abby has performed at venues all over the world and, in 2019, toured as a headliner for several colleges across the nation while being a college student herself. She’s opened for coveted comedians such as Russell Peters, Daniel Sloss, and Hasan Minhaj. A stand up show and solo act in one, “How to Embarrass Your Immigrant Parents” is a biting and irreverent storytelling experience that explores a pertinent universal theme: wanting to understand your parents but struggling to see eye-to-eye. Throughout the course of an hour, Abby takes the viewer on an intimate, hilarious, soul-bearing journey about her struggles with mental health, fitting in, and finding common ground with the ones you love even after they’ve hurt you. Most importantly, it is a love letter to Abby’s Indian heritage and her wonderful parents, without whom none of this would be possible. No gimmicky Indian accents, guaranteed.

AMANDA MONTELL (​​THE BIG MAGICAL CULT SHOW): September 27 @ 9:30 PM, Randolph Theatre
Join Amanda Montell, New York Times bestselling author and host of the Sounds Like A Cult podcast, for “The Big Magical Cult Show,” a raucous night of culty deviance featuring drag burlesque performances from the extra spicy Rara Darling & Theydy Bedbug and other surprise guests. In her newest book The Age of Magical Overthinking, Amanda tackles the world of irrational thinking in the modern age, like extreme celebrity worship and with TikTok manifestation gurus. Spend a night of nerdy, laugh-out-loud pop culture analysis, spicy performances, and more with Amanda & friends!

BIG JAY OAKERSON: September 21 @ 6pm, Randolph Theatre *Previously announced
Second show added September 21 @ 8:30pm, Randolph Theatre
Big Jay Oakerson is one of the most beloved and easily recognizable comedians working today. His laid-back style and dirty delivery are the signature marks of his comedy. Constantly touring the country, Jay has been a part of some of the biggest comedy festivals. Every week, Jay co-host’s The Bonfire alongside Bob Kelly on Radio Sirius XM 95 and two wildly popular podcasts Legion of Skanks with Luis J. Gomez and Dave Smith and The SDR (Sex, Drugs & Rock & Roll) Show with Ralph Sutton. On the screen, Jay has been featured on This Is Not Happening with Ari Shaffir, Comedy Underground with Dave Attell, FX’s Emmy winning Louie, Inside Amy Schumer, and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon & Conan O’Brien. This year, Jay released his newest hour, Dog Belly on YouTube already garnering over 1.7 million views.

CHLOE RADCLIFFE: September 25 @ 9pm & September 26 @ 7pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
Chloe Radcliffe is an NYC-based standup comedian, actor, and writer. In 2024, Chloe was named to both Deadline’s 15 Comedians Ready To Break Out in 2025 and Vulture’s Comedians You Should and Will Know. Most recently, Chloe wrapped production on Bradley Cooper’s upcoming feature Is This Thing On? opposite Cooper, Will Arnett, and Laura Dern. Her one-woman-show Cheat, about her history of serially cheating in relationships, led The New York Times’ recommendations for the 2024 New York Comedy Festival and had sold out runs in LA, NYC, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The show was featured in Deadline’s Comics to Watch, and Chloe is currently imagining Cheat for other mediums. Chloe starred in Steven Soderbergh’s Command Z and was a staff writer on the series with teleplay credit on 3 episodes. She was nominated for a 2024 WGA award for her work on Command Z. She recently created the YouTube interview series In Tandem, in which she talks with fellow comics while riding a tandem bike through NYC or LA…it’s like Comedians in Cars, but sweatier.

COLUM TYRRELL: September 26 @ 7:30 PM, September 27 @ 7:30pm & 9:30pm, Comedy Bar – Danforth
After beginning his career in his home country of Ireland, Colum Tyrrell moved to New York City and quickly became one of the fastest rising comics in the scene. He is a regular at The Comedy Cellar, The Stand Comedy Club and Stand Up New York. A staple in the New York Comedy Podcast scene he can be heard on The Legion of Skanks, You Know What Dude, Are You Garbage? and Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast. He launched The Colum Tyrrell Podcast in 2022 which is growing to be one of the more popular shows in New York and he recently made his television debut on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Catch him now before he blows up and becomes a household name.

COREY B: September 26 @ 9:30pm, Randolph Theatre
Corey B (Corey Bonalewicz) is a high-energy comedian and content creator with over 23 million followers and a reputation for making people laugh both onstage and online. Known for his sharp delivery, off-the-wall pranks, and brutally honest takes on everyday life, Corey blends stand-up chops with viral video instincts to create nonstop comedy that hits hard and spreads fast. From sold-out shows across the country to sketches that rack up millions of views, he’s built a comedy brand that’s raw, unpredictable, and always entertaining. Based in New York City, Corey also co-hosts the Cane and Corey podcast and regularly ropes in his fiancée and son for hilarious bits that give fans a glimpse into his chaotic, unfiltered world. Corey also co-hosts The Boy Friends podcast with Marcus Monroe and Matt Lopes, a comedy podcast about 3 boys that are friends.

HIDDEN GEMS HOSTED BY JACOB BALSHIN: September 24 @ 11pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
Following a year of consecutive sold out shows Hidden Gems returns to Comedy Bar. Host Jacob Balshin introduces you to some of his favourite comedians in all of Toronto. With stars from Just For Laughs, CBC & so much more.

JACOB BALSHIN: September 24 @ 9pm, Comedy Bar – Danforth
An award winning stand-up, Jacob was named one of Toronto’s Top 10 Influencers of 2025 by the Toronto Star and has also been featured on CBC’s New Wave of Comedy. His videos have amassed millions of views online and a loyal Canadian cult fanbase.

JAMES ADOMIAN (THE ALTERNATIVE SHOW): September 18 – 20 @ 11pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
The Alt Show is back! The legendary late-night showcase returns, this time hosted by the brilliant James Adomian (Comedy Bang! Bang!, MadTV). A yearly cornerstone of the JFL Toronto lineup, The Alt Show is known for its boundary-pushing, anything-goes energy. Comedians are encouraged to debut new material, take big swings, and push the limits of the craft in front of a game crowd. Expect chaotic brilliance and the kind of fearless comedy that only happens when the rules go out the window.

James Adomian is an actor/comedian who is well known for his characters and impressions. Conan O’Brien called him “a genius.” He can currently be seen almost weekly on Jimmy Kimmel Live! doing various impressions like Mike Lindell and Elon Musk. His podcast, The Underculture on the Forever Dog Podcast Network, had one of the best podcast episodes of 2019 according to Indiewire, and in 2020 James got to interview Bernie Sanders (as Bernie Sanders). He can be seen on the Netflix comedy special Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration and History Of The World 2, the Mel Brooks series and sequel on Hulu, playing Richard Nixon. In 2016, he portrayed Bernie Sanders in the wildly successful project Trump Vs Bernie, which resulted in a sold out international tour, a #1 comedy album, and two one-hour long comedy specials on Fusion.

JFL LIVE SESSIONS: September 18 – 20, 25 – 27 @ 7:30 PM, Comedy Bar – Bloor
JFL Live Sessions is a high-energy stand-up showcase featuring a handpicked lineup of some of the funniest voices from the festival. Filmed live at the Comedy Bar – Bloor, each set captures the raw, unfiltered magic of live comedy at its best.

JOHN MOSTYN: September 19 @ 8:30pm & 10pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
John Mostyn is a Toronto-based comedian originally from Glasgow, Scotland. Since moving to Canada, he has quickly established himself as one of the country’s most exciting and in-demand performers. His sharp storytelling and quick-witted, fish-out-of-water humour have made him a crowd favourite across the nation, where he regularly headlines top comedy clubs. His debut comedy special The Scotsman was released in 2022 by Cottage Country Digital, hitting #1 on the iTunes comedy chart and earning widespread critical acclaim. In 2024, John performed a sold-out run of his solo show Bawbag at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and appeared on CBC’s Accent on Toronto. He has opened for comedy heavyweights including Russell Howard, Gilbert Gottfried, Rosebud Baker, James Adomian, Tom Green, Randy Feltface, Amy Miller, Josh Gondelman, and many more.

LATE BAD: September 25 – 27 @ 11PM, Comedy Bar – Danforth
Late Bad is a party variety show full of carefully curated comedians and surprise special guests in town for the festival. The stage is covered in balloons filled with prompts for the performers to play off of, as well as 30 second dance parties, impromptu challenges, games and so much more. Hosted by Laura Cilevitz, Ben Sosa-Wright and Mark Little with Monsieur Sex – the pan sexual European DJ as their Musical Director.

LAUGH SABBATH: September 18 @ 10pm & September 25 @ 10pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
This beloved, long-running, madcap comedy show has been entertaining Toronto’s top laughers since 2006! LAUGH SABBATH is a different show every week featuring a rotating ensemble of radical and exciting comedians. Acclaimed by critics as one of the best comedy shows in the city and celebrated by fans as a cult favourite for over a decade. Come see where comedy legends are born!

MATTHEW BROUSSARD: September 23 @ 8pm & September 24 @ 9:30pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
Matthew Broussard is a disgraced financial analyst forced into stand up comedy. The byproduct of a Cajun chemist and Jewish microbiologist, he holds a degree in computational mathematics he always manages to bring up (just did it!) and is fully aware of how douchey he looks. His comedy is heady, self-effacing, and weirdly… educational? He’s performed on the Tonight Show, Conan, Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle, the Comedy Central Half Hour, and some stuff with MTV2 he doesn’t like to talk about. You can catch him in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The League, The Mindy Project, and alongside Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish in the film Here Today. He is the creator of the webcomic and puzzle app, Monday Punday.

MOJO BROOKZZ: September 25 @ 9:30 PM, Randolph Theatre
Dyon “Mojo” Brooks is an actor, writer, producer, and stand-up comedian that recently appeared in a leading role for Tyler Perry’s She The People on Netflix. As a comic, Brooks is nationally acclaimed and celebrated having toured with legends such as Mike Epps, Martin Lawrence, and Deon Cole to name a few. He recently wrapped his headlining nationwide Unhand Me Now Tour which sold out every single night with multiple added shows in nearly every location. This fall, Brooks will set out on his fourth headlining tour with stops at multiple different theatres across the nation. Additionally, Dyon can be seen on the most recent Season 21 of Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘n Out, having been hand selected by Cannon who is a fan of Brooks viral sketch comedy videos that can be found across his social media pages, which have amassed millions of views and over 28 million likes.

PAT THORNTON: September 27 @ 8:30pm & 10pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
Pat Thornton has been a comedian for a long time, known for his work on TV in both sketch and stand up. His first album, Chicken! was nominated for a Juno. His first special, Different Times is on Crave.

PATTI HARRISON: September 26 @ 7pm, Bluma Appel Theatre
Born and raised in rural Ohio, Patti Harrison began her career in the NYC comedy scene. After her first film role in 2017’s A SIMPLE FAVOR, she’s made fans for her sociopathic character “Ruthie” on Hulu’s Shrill and various appearances on I Think You Should Leave With Tim Robinson, Poker Face, High Maintenance, Search Party, and The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon. She’s written on multiple series including two seasons of Big Mouth on Netflix, and has even voiced the role of “Tail Chief” in Disney’s ensemble Raya And The Last Dragon.

SABRINA WU: September 23 @ 8:30pm, Comedy Bar – Danforth & September 24 @ 7pm, Comedy Bar – Bloor
Sabrina Wu is a New York based actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. They made their feature film debut in the Lionsgate comedy Joy Ride, from executive producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg and director Adele Lim. They’ve also guest starred in Abbott Elementary, and a series regular in the Apple TV+ show Murderbot starring Alexander Skarsgard. Wu was a writer on the critically-acclaimed FX limited series Dying For Sex starring Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate. On the stand-up side, they were selected as one of the New Faces of Comedy by the Just For Laughs Festival in 2022. Later that fall, they had their TV debut doing stand up on the Tonight Show. Variety named Wu one of the Top 10 Comics to Watch in 2023. In the same year, Vulture Magazine named Wu a Comedian You Should Know and Will Know.

SUNTHAR V: September 27 @ 4pm, Comedy Bar – Danforth
Sunthar V is a globally touring comedian who seamlessly blends sharp storytelling with cultural wit, performing in both Tamil and English. Born and raised in Scarborough, Ontario, he is the first openly queer Tamil comedian to take his work worldwide, building an independent career from the ground up and selling out shows across North America, Europe, and India to nearly 10,000 attendees annually. Now based in New York City, he’s focused on expanding his reach with new English material to connect with broader audiences while staying true to his roots. His online videos have amassed millions of views, with over 6 million monthly impressions, resonating with fans across the globe. Known for his ability to navigate identity, queerness, and the absurdities of modern life with humor and heart, Sunthar is carving out a unique space in the international comedy scene.

ZARNA GARG: September 19 @ 7pm, Elgin Theatre
Zarna Garg is a comedy trailblazing Indian immigrant mom from New York City. She masterfully infuses humor, wit, and fearless social commentary into her comedy special for Amazon Prime, One in a Billion, and her insightful podcast, The Zarna Garg Family Show, dissecting modern family dynamics. She headlined her sold-out Practical People Win tour and is the opener for comedy legends Tina Fey and Amy Poehler on their Restless Leg Tour. Zarna has also crossed over to the film world, starring in A Nice Indian Boy. Boasting a devoted social media following of 2M+, she passionately advocates for change and representation in comedy and is bravely vocal about criminalizing evil mother-in-law behaviors.

#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS MONTREAL RETURNS JULY 16-27, 2025

Today at a press conference in Montréal, Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President and CEO of Just For Laughs, announced the highly anticipated return of the Just For Laughs Festival in Montréal, running July 16 to 27, 2025. This year’s edition welcomes comedians Tom Segura, Russell Peters, Adam Ray, Fortune Feimster, Michelle Buteau, Kumail Nanjiani and Mae Martin, among others, marking the beginning of a bold new era for the Festival. 

With an incredible programming lineup featuring exclusive performances, international talent, major premieres and returning favourites, the 2025 Festival promises to be one of the most memorable in Just For Laughs’ renowned history. Montréal will once again serve as a global hub for comedy drawing acclaimed performers, standout comedic voices, rising stars, and fans from around the world to experience the transformative power of laughter and creativity. Performances will take place at the Quartier des Spectacles and iconic venues including Place des Arts, Le Gesù, L’Olympia, Théâtre Saint-Denis, Espace Saint-Denis, MTelus, Club Soda and Studio TD.

Previously announced media partnerships will see some of the Festival’s most popular programs, the JUST FOR LAUGHS GALAS and ROAST BATTLE CANADA, taped before live audiences to air on CBC and CTV Comedy Channel & Crave respectively, bringing the laughs to comedy fans across Canada. 

This year’s lineup also features can’t-miss solo performances from comedy heavyweights alongside returning favourites offering something for every comedy enthusiast.

Sylvain Parent-Bédard, Just For Laughs president and CEO had this to say about the announcement:

“Just For Laughs is back — and this moment is one of true gratitude. As we find our voice again, we do so with heart, humility, and profound gratitude. To all the artists, agents, managers, producers, broadcasters, sponsors, governments, and — more than anyone — the fans who support us and believe in the power of laughter: thank you. This return isn’t ours alone. It’s a collective achievement. A shared belief that comedy has the power to unite, soothe, and inspire — now more than ever. Let’s keep building, together. Let’s keep laughing, together.”

Highlights of the 2025 Just For Laughs Festival Montréal include:

TWO INCREDIBLE FREE OUTDOOR SHOWS AT PLACE DES FESTIVALS

TOM SEGURA: COME TOGETHER
Place Des Festivals
July 26 at 9pm

Actor/Comedian/Writer Tom Segura is one of the biggest names in the comedy business. Tom’s previous tour, I’m Coming Everywhere World Tour, played over 300 shows and his hit podcasts Your Mom’s House which he co-hosts with his wife, comedian Christina Pazsitzky, 2 Bears 1 Cave which he co-hosts with Bert Kreischer, draw millions of listeners each week.. He is currently selling out venues all over the world on his Come Together tour, andJust For Laughs is closing out the Festival with a bang with this amazing free show.

ADAM RAY IS DR. PHIL LIVE
Place Des Festivals
July 24 at 9pm

With over 10 million views online, Dr. Phil LIVE has become one of the most fun things to see in comedy. From comedian/actor Adam Ray (Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Barbie Movie, MadTV, Hacks, Pam & Tommy, The Heat) the live show provides a wild late night feel with crowd interactions, standup, huge celebrity guests, surprise characters, and hilarious moments you can’t see anywhere else.

EXCLUSIVE TV TAPINGS

JUST FOR LAUGHS GALAS in partnership with CBC
Théâtre Maisonneuve
July 25 – 26, 6:30pm – 9:30pm

The iconic Just For Laughs Galas deliver stand-up comedy’s biggest international nights. Hosted by Fortune Feimster (July 26 @ 6:30 PM) and Michelle Buteau (July 25 @ 9:30 PM) with two hosts yet to be announced, each Gala features a curated mix of global stars and breakout voices from across the comedy spectrum. Taped live at Théâtre Maisonneuve, the shows capture the electric energy, sharp writing, and international flair that have made Just For Laughs a premier comedy destination for fans and industry alike. Presented in partnership with CBC.

“The CBC Galas at Just For Laughs have long been a defining moment for so many Canadian and international comedians,” said Trish Williams, Executive Director, Scripted Content. CBC. “They offer a national platform for standout emerging and established talent, and a chance to be part of a celebrated comedy tradition that CBC is proud to play a part in. We’re excited to continue to share these performances with audiences across the country.”

In addition, Big Yellow Taxi Productions returns to Montreal this summer to curate Season 23 the of JFL Montreal TV series for Australia and New Zealand. Playing across multiple platforms including WBD, Paramount+ and Network 10, Just for Laughs continues to draw large TV audiences for its host broadcasters “down under”

ROAST BATTLE CANADA in partnership with Bell Media
Espace St-Denis
July 20 – 22, 5pm – 8pm – 10:30pm

Roast Battle Canada’s fifth scorched-earth season will be filmed for the first time ever this year at the Festival. Judges Russell Peters, Sabrina Jalees, and K. Trevor Wilson return with their signature mix of wit and brutal honesty. Hosted by the razor-sharp Ennis Esmer, the series sees Canada’s boldest comics go head-to-head in savage insult battles where no punchline is off-limits. Roast Battlers to be announced soon. Produced in association with Bell Media.

“We are excited to bring a new season of Roast Battle Canada to The Just For Laughs Montreal Festival,” said Carlyn Klebuc, General Manager, Original Programming, Bell Media. “Roast Battle Canada showcases and provides a platform for some of the sharpest and quickest minds in Canadian comedy, and filming during the Festival allows us to capture the incredible energy and spirit it creates.”

ACCLAIMED CONCERTS AND SOLO SHOWS

Some of the biggest names and most relevant brands in comedy will be making stops at the Festival this year, giving Montreal audiences and tourists alike a taste of whatever flavour of comedy they seek.

KUMAIL NANJIANI
L’Olympia
July 26 at 7pm

Following his sold out shows at JFL VANCOUVER, former JFL New Face turned Marvel movie star Kumail Nanjiani returns to perform stand-up in Montreal. Kumail is an Oscar-nominated writer, Emmy-nominated actor, and critically acclaimed producer and comedian. Catch him for one night only at L’Olympia this summer in Montreal.

MAE MARTIN & FRIENDS
L’Olympia
July 25 at 9:30pm

MAE MARTIN is an award-winning comedian, actor, writer, and producer who currently hosts the smash hit comedy podcast HANDSOME alongside Tig Notaro and Fortune Feimster, and can be seen in OUTSTANDING: A COMEDY REVOLUTION, a Netflix documentary which premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival that explores the history of LGBTQ+ stand-up comedy and its importance as an instrument for social change over the past five decades. They rose to fame as the star of their own Netflix series FEEL GOOD, and are back from hosting a Just For Laughs Gala in 2023 to present an amazing evening at L’Olympia, surrounded by some great, funny friends.

RUSSELL HOWARD LIVE
L’Olympia
July 24 at 7pm

After the global success of writing and starring in 182 episodes of The Russell Howard Hour (Sky) and Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC) combined, plus six stand-up specials, with clips amassing over 1 billion views on social media and selling 1.5 million tickets to his gigs worldwide so far, Russell Howard is back on the road once again with his fourth and biggest world tour to date, Russell Howard Live. Russell Howard Live has already seen him perform runs in the UK, Europe, America, Australia and New Zealand.

NICK MOHAMMED IS MR. SWALLOW: SHOW PONY
Le Gesù
July 23 – 26, 7pm – 9:30pm

Ted Lasso star and Taskmaster UK loser Nick Mohammed brings his critically acclaimed alter-ego Mr. Swallow to Just For Laughs Montreal for the first time with his brand-new show: Show Pony. Recently seen on Amazon Prime’s hit show Last One Laughing UK, Mr. Swallow has also appeared on numerous episodes of Channel 4’s 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown with many of his performances in Dictionary Corner going viral.

Show Pony has been described by Mr. Swallow as “a golden opportunity for anyone who didn’t come to the last tour” and “my most personal/libelous show to date” and will cover everything from not having his own sitcom to not having his own sitcom… and everything in between (critical race theory). Expect magic, music and a whole load of brand-new mistakes.

DANNY BHOY: DEAR WORLD
Le Gesù
July 22 – 27, 7pm – 9:30pm

Scottish comedy superstar Danny Bhoy returns to Just For Laughs Montreal! From his first appearance here back in 2003, Danny quickly became a favourite with Canadian audiences. He now regularly sells out some of the biggest theatres across the whole country with his unique observational storytelling style of comedy. In a comedy landscape littered with social media, Danny has built up a worldwide following largely through the most reliable platform of them all, word of mouth. In 2025, fresh from it’s completely sold out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, he brings his latest show ‘Dear World…’ to our shores. It’s the sequel to his 2015 smash hit show ‘Dear Epson…’ which he describes as a hybrid of stand up and theatre, and it’s sure to delight audiences in Canada as much as it did in his hometown.

DROPOUT IMPROV
L’Olympia
July 26 at 9:30pm

From the minds behind Dropout comes an evening of improv, minigames, and off-the-wall shenanigans. Hosted by Kurt Maloney, and featuring the improv talents of Kimia Behpoorni, Jeremy Culhane, Lou Wilson, Jacob Wysocki, and Scott Passarella.

SMOSH READS REDDIT STORIES
L’Olympia
July 26, 4pm

Smosh Reads Reddit Stories is coming to you LIVE in Montreal! Join host Shayne Topp (33m) and his friends from Smosh as they delve into Reddit’s wildest stories and updates, share their own hilarious commentary, and more. Mark your calendars & get your pancakes out – this is one live show you DON’T want to miss.

BRAD WILLIAMS
MTelus
July 24 at 9:30pm

Pound for pound, Brad Williams is the funniest comedian in the continent right now and has become one of the most in-demand comedians working today. Williams started doing stand-up comedy as a teenager and has been touring successfully ever since, routinely selling out prestigious venues all over the country and world.

In addition to stand-up and acting, Williams co-created and co-hosted one of the most successful podcasts in the world, with friend and fellow comic Adam Ray, entitled About Last Night, which was always a mainstay on the iTunes charts during their five-year run. (Fun fact: Brad has also received a standing ovation at every Just For Laughs Gala he has ever performed on)

RACHID BADOURI: THE TALE OF THE SYRIAN DRAGON
Club Soda
July 23 at 9:30pm

Celebrated French-Canadian stand-up comedian Rachid Badouri, renowned for captivating audiences in French across the globe with three specials and over 1 million tickets sold in 10 countries, is set to make his ground-breaking English debut. Known for his humour and captivating stage presence, Rachid brings a fresh perspective to stand-up comedy, blending cultural anecdotes with his vibrant energy.

UPDATING
Club Soda
July 25, 7pm

UPDATING is the critically acclaimed New York City-based live dating & comedy show bringing two singles on blindfolded first dates in front of live audiences. Dubbed “the most raw dating show in existence,” what follows is a hilarious show with audience participation, raw moments, and relatable feedback on modern romance in real-time with real people. Reality TV…unfolding & unedited on stage! Created, Produced, and Hosted by NYC-based comedians, Brandon Berman & Harrison Forman.

NINA CONTI
Studio TD
July 22, 9:30pm

Virtuoso ventriloquist, BAFTA nominee and British Comedy Award winner Nina Conti returns with a brand new live show ‘Whose Face Is It Anyway?’

Following countless five star reviews at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe where she debuted the show, and fresh from sell-out runs in London’s West End and New York, and a sold-out national UK tour this Spring.

With her beloved monkey in tow, join Conti for ‘Whose Face Is It Anyway?’ as she presents an unparalleled, unscripted new show that delves deep into who we are, hijacking faces to spark a bold, hysterical reality warp.

CAT COHEN
Studio TD
July 23, 9:30pm

Actress, comedian, singer and writer, the glamorous Catherine Cohen can be seen in Season 4 of the award-winning Hulu series ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING, as well as in the Netflix series GIRLS5EVA alongside Ashley Park and Sara Bareilles. She starred in THE FRENCH ITALIAN which premiered this year at The Tribeca Film Festival.

In 2022, Catherine dropped her first Netflix comedy special, called “The Twist …? She’s Gorgeous” to rave reviews and in August of 2019 won the coveted title of Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival.

CLUB SERIES: RETURNING FAN FAVOURITES

NEW FACES OF COMEDY: STAND-UPS AND CHARACTERS
Espace St-Denis
July 23 – 24, 7pm – 9:30pm

The New Faces showcase is one of the most anticipated events at the Festival, with a long-standing track record of launching comedy’s biggest stars, in both stand-up and sketch. Alumni include global icons like Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer, Ali Wong, Jo Koy, Tim Robinson, and Kumail Nanjiani, Saturday Night Live cast members like Jimmy Fallon, Pete Davidson, and Heidi Gardner, as well as Canadian Comedy Award winner DeAnne Smith, and Letterkenny’s K. Trevor Wilson. Recent New Faces include rising stars like Derrick Stroup, Leslie Liao, and Marcello Hernandez, whose stand-up sets have racked up millions of views online.

THE NASTY SHOW
Club Soda
July 16 – 22, 9:30pm – 11:59pm

The Nasty Show is back! A Festival staple for decades, this show once again promises to be its filthiest and most shocking show, pushing boundaries and encouraging audiences to check their political correctness at the door… let go, and laugh! This summer’s lineup is hosted by stand-up comedian and viral sensation Che Durena and features a killer lineup including Jiaoying Summers, Jay Jurden, Amos Gill, and more!

JFL CULTURE SHOW
Club Soda
July 16 – 22, 7pm

JFL’s long tradition of breaking stereotypes and boundaries with comedy continues with The Culture Show. Hosted by comedian and actor Asif Ali (Deli Boys, WandaVision, The Mandalorian) and featuring former New Face Andrea Jin, and from Frankie Quiñones (What We Do In The Shadows) and more, this cultural melting pot for comedy has become a Festival staple, hilariously tearing down barriers and bringing people closer together.

BRIT(ISH)
Studio TD
July 23 – 26, 7pm

Get ready to cross the pond (ish) without leaving the city. Brit(ish) is a comedy showcase celebrating the sharp wit, dry humour, and distinctive style of top-tier comedians from Britain, but could also include friends from Ireland, or elsewhere in the Commonwealth. Hosted this year by acclaimed UK comedian Ed Gamble, co-host of the award-winning mega-hit podcast Off Menu, the show offers a fresh, hilarious perspective from some of the funniest voices in comedy today.

MIDNIGHT SURPRISE
Studio TD
July 23 – 26, 11:59pm

The Midnight Surprise Show is one of the Festival’s most exciting and unpredictable events, offering a high-energy, spontaneous experience for both performers and audiences. As you might expect, the show is typically held at midnight and features a surprise lineup of top-tier comedians, many of whom may be performing impromptu sets or testing new material. You never know who might drop in!

Additional programming details—including the full festival schedule, free outdoor shows, daytime ComedyPRO sessions, The Just For Laughs Awards show, New Faces: Writers and New Faces: Creators showcases, fireside chats, keynotes, fan events, and screenings of Just For Laughs Shorts and Pilots—will be announced in the coming weeks. (a.k.a we’re just getting started!)

TICKET INFORMATION

EXCLUSIVE PRESALE – JUST FOR LAUGHS MEMBERS
Tickets are on sale now via exclusive presale for Just For Laughs Members. Members save 30% from Thursday, May 8 through Monday, May 12 at 12:00pm on select shows. Become a Just For Laughs Member at HAHAHA.COM.

GENERAL PUBLIC ONSALE
The general public can take advantage of a limited-time 20% discount on select shows from Monday, May 12 at 12:00pm to Monday, May 19 at 12:00pm.

All remaining tickets will be available at regular price beginning Monday, May 19 at 12:00pm.

Tickets can be purchased and the complete Just For Laughs Montréal schedule found at HAHAHA.COM.

JUST FOR LAUGHS PARTNERS
The Just for Laughs Festival Montréal is extremely thankful for the support of its partners: Énergir, Belle Gueule, Distillerie des Appalaches, YUL Aéroport de Montréal, and its official broadcast partners CBC, Crave, CTV Comedy Channel, Bell Media, ICI Télé, ICI TOU.TV, TVA, illico+, Noovo, TV5, UnisTV, Warner Bros Discovery, Paramount +, Network 10, CANAL+, France Télévision, and the Canada Media Fund. The Festival would also like to recognize the financial support of the Gouvernment du Québec, the Government of Canada, the Ville de Montréal, Tourisme Montréal, the Quartier des spectacles, Montréal centre-ville and la Place des Arts, without which none of this would have been possible.

ABOUT JUST FOR LAUGHS
Created in 1983, Just For Laughs is a world leader in comedy. Just For Laughs organises numerous festivals, including the world’s largest comedy festival in Montréal. The company has launched the careers of many renowned comedians and entertained millions of spectators each year through its festivals and content broadcast in more than 150 countries. Just For Laughs manages the careers of artists and produces shows, musicals, television series and films. Just For Laughs is a leading brand of the Just For Entertainment Group which, since its foundation in 1997, has established itself as an international leader in creating a world of entertainment. Just For Entertainment was historically known as ComediHa!

#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS SIGNS-ON TO PRODUCE BROADWAY MUSICAL ” REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES”

Just For Laughs has signed on as co-producer of the Broadway musical Real Women Have Curves, set to begin previews at Broadway’s James Earl Jones Theatre on April 1, 2025. Sylvain Parent-Bédard, new owner of Just For Laughs and CEO of Just For Entertainment Group – who produce the Montreal Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, the world’s largest comedy festival – and Jérôme Tremblay, producer for the group, are joining the producing team.

This collaboration with National Artists Management Company (NAMCO) and TruWorthy Productions marks a significant milestone for the Quebec-based company in the field of theatrical and musical productions. In addition to the amazing comedy festivals that Just For Laughs has been producing around the world, the company has also created French-language adaptations of beloved musicals such as Mary Poppins, Annie, Waitress, Chicago, and many more. It was after collaborating with Barry and Fran Weissler, along with NAMCO’s executive producer Alecia Parker, on the French adaptations of Waitress and Chicago in Montreal, that the company was approached for the co-production of Real Women Have Curves on Broadway.

“Collaborating once again with our Quebec partners at Just For Laughs, this time in New York, is truly exciting. We have built a wonderful relationship and it’s a pleasure to have them as co-producers on Real Women Have Curves. They are incredible and valuable partners.” says Barry Weissler, producer of Real Women Have Curves and founder of NAMCO, the New York-based company with an impressive track record of nearly 50 years of experience in producing world-class productions. Whether on Broadway, the West End, or with international tours, NAMCO’s productions have earned 93 Tony Award nominations and 8 Laurence Olivier Award nominations, winning 24 Tony Awards and 2 Olivier Awards.

“This new and exciting adventure confirms the position of Just For Entertainment as a leader in musical theater production in Quebec and marks a significant expansion for its Just For Laughs division, opening the door to new opportunities in New York, the United States, London, and internationally.” said Sylvain Parent-Bédard, president and new owner of Just For Laughs, a division of the Just For Entertainment Group. “Although comedy has always been our focus, we are convinced that theater—whether musical, comedic, or dramatic— can be an equally powerful unifying force. We are excited about expanding the Just For Laughs brand with musical productions on Broadway, and it is an honor to begin this new chapter for the company with trusted partners like Barry and Alecia.”

“Our involvement as co-producer of Real Women Have Curves is a natural extension of our successful collaboration with NAMCO for the world premiere of Waitress in French last year and now for the production of Chicago. I must also say that we were immediately captivated by this original musical. The songs by Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez are absolutely beautiful, and the show powerfully demonstrates that a heartfelt story about the real challenges faced by immigrants can also be a funny, inspiring, and uplifting celebration of family, community, and resilience. It’s truly a show that brings people together!” concludes Jérôme Tremblay, producer at Just For Entertainment.

Based on Josefina López’s acclaimed play that inspired the iconic HBO hit film by Josefina López and George LaVoo, Real Women Have Curves is a captivating new show that explores life’s unexpected turns with strength and emotion. This adaptation marks a historic first on Broadway: a musical where the entire creative team (book, music, choreography, and direction) is made up of Latin artists, including music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winning artist Joy Huerta and composer/lyricist Benjamin Velez, book by Lisa Loomer with Nell Benjamin, and direction and choreography by Tony and Olivier Award winner Sergio Trujillo. Music Supervision is by Nadia DiGiallonardo. The show will star Tatianna Córdoba in her Broadway debut, alongside Screen Actors Guild Award-winner Justina Machado, and has been cast by X Casting/Victor Vazquez, CSA and ARC/Duncan Stewart, CSA.

ABOUT JUST FOR ENTERTAINMENT

Since it was founded in 1997, Just For Entertainment/Juste pour divertir (formerly ComediHa!) has firmly established itself as an international entertainment leader in the world of live shows, television, film and festivals. In 2024, the acquisition of the Just For Laughs Group added to ComediHa’s strengths and values. We solidified our position as the benchmark in the comedy industry for “Making people laugh around the world”. Established in 1983, Just For Laughs is internationally renowned for organizing the world’s largest comedy festival, attracting millions of visitors to Montreal and Quebec City. It’s also celebrated for its role in promoting comedy worldwide and for catapulting the careers of countless comedy stars. Today, Just For Entertainment goes far beyond comedy to deliver a diverse range of content, including music, drama and much more. Our talented team is made up of nearly 200 permanent employees and 6,000+ temporary employees and collaborators, who always bring their shared passion and creativity to the table. Our mission is clear: Bring together talent to create a world of entertainment through inspiring brands and content. Our brands and products now captivate hundreds of millions of viewers around the world via our broadcast partners, festivals, social media, and digital platforms, which are followed by over 70 million engaged fans and have accumulated over 100 billion views so far.

ABOUT JUST FOR LAUGHS

Established in 1983, Just For Laughs stands as a global beacon of comedy, orchestrating the world’s grandest Comedy festival in Montreal. It has fostered the ascent of esteemed comedians and entertains millions of viewers annually through its festivals and content broadcast in over 150 countries. Just For Laughs also produces shows and musical comedies and organizes the “ComedyPRO” conference.

#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS MONTREAL ANNOUNCE NEW PARTNERS

Just For Laughs is proud to reveal Loto-Québec as a signature partner of the 2025 Just For Laughs Montréal Festival. Partners in laughter and happiness, Loto-Québec reinforces its commitment alongside the world’s biggest comedy festival, which has welcomed tens of millions of festivalgoers over more than 40 years, and whose group has now amassed over 70 million subscribers on its various digital platforms.

“This irreplaceable support from Loto-Québec consolidates our position as a leader in the comedy industry and allows us to prepare a memorable edition for 2025. Loto-Québec is a key partner in our mission: to make the world laugh, everywhere, and especially in Montréal,” declares Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Just For Laughs.

“It is with great pride that we will once again be supporting the Just for Laughs Montréal Festival as part of the Rendez-vous Loto-Québec in 2025. We are very pleased to play a role in showcasing Québec’s comedy and highlighting Montréal’s radiance by contributing to this world-renowned festival. Next summer, the Just for Laughs Montréal Festival will offer a unique opportunity to be entertained and to discover a multitude of local talent,” says Benoit Lefrançois, Corporate Vice-President of Responsible Commercialization, Social Responsibility and Public Affairs of Loto-Québec.

The Just For Laughs Montréal Festival is a world famous gathering for comedy, bringing together hundreds of artists and thousands of artisans from the English and French-speaking worlds each year. Together, they celebrate comedy in all its forms, in a unique spirit of festivity and collaboration, to the delight of all comedy lovers.

“This partnership promises a rich, exclusive, and diverse program, especially designed to bring families and friends together in a spirit of joy and conviviality. Thanks to the support of Loto-Québec, we will be offering a program combining stand-up comedy, visual comedy, musical

comedy, interactive shows and free outdoor events to provide memorable and unique moments for over a million festival goers,” states Josée Charland, head of French programming.

#FIRSTLOOK: COMEDIHA! TO OPERATE UNDER JUST FOR LAUGHS FESTIVAL – QUEBEC BRAND

Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President and Founder of ComediHa! and the new owner of Just For Laughs (acquired in June 2024) announces that ComediHa ! Fest-Québec will now operate under the Just For Laughs Festival – Quebec brand. This marks a new era for the comedy event in the city, where the head office of the Quebec entrepreneur’s new group is based.

“Last June, our group acquired the biggest comedy brand on the planet, Just For Laughs. I’m proud that the head office of the world’s number one comedy group will now be based in Quebec City. After careful thought and analysis, I decided that the Quebec City festival should bear the name of Quebec’s favourite comedy brand, Just For Laughs—the province’s favourite entertainment brand along with Cirque du Soleil” – Sylvain Parent-Bédard, President and CEO of Just For Laughs.

Quebec City now joins a prestigious global network of Just For Laughs venues that includes Sydney, Australia, Bermuda, Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, along with other major international cities soon to be announced as part of the brand’s new strategic plan.

This latest addition helps solidify Quebec City’s position as a must-visit destination for comedy, reinforced by the exceptional reputation of Just For Laughs (which will operate as the English-language brand of the Quebec City festival).

For more than 40 years, the Just For Laughs brand, a Quebec cultural institution celebrated by French- and English-speaking communities alike, has played a major role in promoting comedy worldwide, helping catapult the careers of many renowned French- and English-speaking comedians. Just For Laughs plays host to iconic events where up-and-coming talents meet the industry’s best-known artists.

This new chapter for the festival is testament to Parent-Bédard’s strong commitment to the Quebec City community and underscores the city’s potential as a dynamic cultural hub ready to shine on the international stage.

From August 6 to 17, 2025, the Just For Laughs Festival-Quebec City promises to captivate comedy fans, coming together to enjoy an experience worthy of the world’s leading comedy brand. The festival will also feature an impressive English-language lineup to welcome an increasingly diverse audience from around the world.

ComediHa! Group changes its name to Just For Entertainment Group

The ComediHa! Group is making a decisive shift by grouping all its activities under the new banner of the Just For Entertainment Group. This consolidation follows a period of significant growth, marked by a number of major musical events, including the relaunch of SuperFrancoFête, as well as several acquisitions in recent years. These acquisitions, including Les Boys, Les Productions Martin Leclerc and the Just For Laughs / Juste pour rire Group, have helped redefine the Group’s influence in the entertainment world. This evolution signals a new identity for its operations, inspired by the worldwide reputation of the Just For Laughs Group.

With the slogan “A world of entertainment,” the Just For Entertainment Group now offers a wide range of content that includes festivals, shows, tours, audiovisual content, digital platforms, artist representation, global content distribution and more.

About Just For Entertainment

Since it was founded in 1997, Just For Entertainment/Juste pour divertir (formerly ComediHa!) has firmly established itself as an international entertainment leader in the world of live shows, television, film and festivals.

In 2024, the acquisition of the Just For Laughs Group added to ComediHa’s strengths and values. We solidified our position as the benchmark in the comedy industry for “Making people laugh around the world”. Established in 1983, Just For Laughs is internationally renowned for organizing the world’s largest comedy festival, attracting millions of visitors to Montreal and Quebec City. It’s also celebrated for its role in promoting comedy worldwide and for catapulting the careers of countless comedy stars.

Today, Just For Entertainment goes far beyond comedy to deliver a diverse range of content, including music, drama and much more. Our talented team is made up of nearly 200 permanent employees and 6,000+ temporary employees and collaborators, who always bring their shared passion and creativity to the table.

Our mission is clear: Bring together talent to create a world of entertainment through inspiring brands and content.

Our brands and products now captivate hundreds of millions of viewers around the world via our broadcast partners, festivals, social media, and digital platforms, which are followed by over 70 million engaged fans and have accumulated over 100 billion views so far.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW JUST FOR LAUGHS COMEDY FESTIVAL DATES SET

ComediHa!, the new proud owners of the iconic international comedy brand Just For Laughs / Juste pour rire, are thrilled to announce several upcoming festival dates as the organization moves forward under new leadership. ComediHa! officially acquired Just For Laughs this past June, marking the beginning of a new era for the beloved comedy brand.

JUST FOR LAUGHS SYDNEY

Looking ahead, ComediHa! is pleased to announce the highly anticipated return of the 12th edition of the Just For Laughs SYDNEY festival taking place November 18 – 23, 2024. The festival, which has been a staple in the global comedy calendar, promises to deliver a stellar lineup of talent. This year’s lineup, announced this past Monday, features world-renowned comedians including Trevor Noah, Eric Idle, Brad Williams and the All-Star Gala hosted by Melanie Bracewell, and many more, ensuring an unforgettable experience for comedy fans.

JUST FOR LAUGHS BERMUDA

In addition to the return of the Sydney festival, ComediHa! is excited to confirm that Just For Laughs BERMUDA will be returning for its 17th edition from January 22 – 24, 2025, bringing world-class comedy to the beautiful island.

JUST FOR LAUGHS VANCOUVER

Following closely on its heels, the 9th edition of JFL VANCOUVER will make its much-awaited comeback February 13 – 22, 2025. These festivals will once again bring the best in comedy further solidifying Just For Laughs’ presence on the global stage.

JUST FOR LAUGHS MONTREAL

As the team gears up for these international festivals, one of ComediHa!’s top priorities remains making the next summer’s JFL MONTREAL festival, running July 16 – 27, 2025, one of the most memorable in the brand’s storied history. Returning to the city where this international brand was born, ComediHa! is committed to honouring the legacy of the festival and its profound impact on the world of comedy. With an eye towards the future, the new leadership promises to blend the festival’s rich traditions with the evolving landscape of comedy, ensuring a prosperous and exciting future for Just For Laughs.

Sylvain Parent-Bédard, president of ComediHa!, Just For Laughs’ new owner, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming festivals: “We couldn’t be more excited to present these incredible festivals under the new leadership of ComediHa!. Each of these festivals holds a long and significant history that we deeply respect and cherish. Working with our festival partners, we are bringing a new breath and vision into these events, which we believe will resonate with both long-time fans and new audiences alike. I’d also like to acknowledge our exceptional programming team, some returning and some new programmers, who are working swiftly and diligently to put together some truly remarkable lineups. Their dedication and creativity are at the heart of what will make these festivals a resounding success.”

Nick Brazao, Head of Programming at Just For Laughs, added, “Programming these festivals is an exciting opportunity to innovate while staying true to the core of what has made Just For Laughs so special for over four decades. We’re focused on curating a diverse mix of established names and emerging talent to platform and celebrate comedy’s best. We’re embracing the industry’s dynamic future, and we can’t wait for audiences around the world to experience what we’re putting together.”

Stay tuned for more festival news in the coming months as Just For Laughs will also unveil plans for live tours along with some exciting TV projects in the works.

#FIRSTLOOK: JUST FOR LAUGHS’ “SURROUNDED” BACK FOR SECOND SEASON

Just For Laughs announces today that season two of the immersive VR stand-up comedy series, Surrounded (60×6) will return for six new episodes starting December 29, 2023, with a very festive Holiday Special, exclusively on Meta Horizon Worlds. Filmed at the prestigious 2023 Just For Laughs MONTRÉAL comedy festival, Surrounded is a hilarious unscripted comedy show where the audience inspires the jokes, and everyone is fair game!

With their Meta Quest VR headset, viewers are transported into the comedy show through Meta’s Comedy Night Market, where they get to watch comedians performing improvised sets in the round, using the audience as inspiration. Viewers will be Surrounded with laughter!

Surrounded promises to deliver big laughs with this year’s host, Lil Rel Howery. Episodes will feature today’s top comedians including

Marlon Wayans, Jack Whitehall, Mae Martin, Fortune Feimster, Mark Normand, Chris Redd, Dan Soder, Jay Pharoah, Meg Stalter, Felipe Esparza, Rosebud Baker, Sam Morril, Joel Kim Booster, Hannah Berner, Nate Jackson, Brad Williams, Preacher Lawson, Sasheer Zamata, Brian Simpson, Steph Tolev, Annie Lederman, and Che Durena.

“Really excited about hosting season 2. I had so, so, so much fun. This is crowd work and freestyling at its best.” – Lil Rel Howery

Premiering with a Holiday Special on December 29, 2023 at 10:00 AM PT, additional episodes will drop every Wednesday in January 2024. Each week, be part of the audience and witness an unscripted barrage of crowd work like you’ve never seen before!

Marina Di Pancrazio, Chief Content Revenue Officer for Just For Laughs, shares, “Season two of Surrounded finds us once again at the intersection of entertainment and innovation with our exceptional partners, Meta. We’re always keen to outdo ourselves. This second season builds off the success of the first, delivering an elevated experience and incredible lineup of comedians to audiences.”

Spencer Griffin, the Head of TV Development at Just For Laughs adds, “Comedy shows in the metaverse are another way that Just for Laughs provides platforms for artists to showcase their hilarious talents. Surrounded not only offers an unparalleled experience for the artists but also for the audience who get to have the best seat in the house.”

Adapted exclusively for Meta Horizon Worlds, and filmed in VR, Surrounded originated as a stand-up comedy show created by Mike Falzone. The Just For Laughs MONTRÉAL festival is renowned as the world’s largest comedy festival, with a rich history and reputation for launching the careers of comedy legends. The iconic festival provides the ideal setting for this unscripted humor that defines this one-of-a-kind virtual comedy experience.

Filmed at the Just For Laughs Festival in Montréal in July 2023, Surrounded is executive produced by Marina Di Pancrazio, Bruce Hills, and Spencer Griffin of Just For Laughs; and Thomas Stockwell as Executive Producer for Meta, and Mike Falzone, who created the concept for the show.