Reality show airing next year

Netflix is to make a new competition series to crown the next big name in stand-up.

Kevin Hart will front the as-yet untitled series, which comes ten years after American reality show Last Comic Standing aired on NBC.

Eight episodes are to be made, promising a ‘look behind the curtain of comedy’ from open mic nights to rewriting material.

Netflix says it is an ‘unfiltered, uncensored, and unapologetic competition that pulls back the curtain on the gritty, hilarious, and often unpredictable path of a stand-up career.

‘Contestants from all over the US will face rigorous tests that mirror the real-life journey of a comedian, from brutal open mics to bombed sets and rewrites to the pressure of big-stage performances. 

‘The competition will give viewers an unvarnished look at comedy’s darkest corners and brightest spotlights with challenges inspired by some of the comics’ actual career trajectories.’

Big-name comics – to be announced later – will act as judges on the show, which will air next year. It is being made by Hart’s company Hartbeat and Project Runway makers Alfred Street Industries.

A call-out has been made to comedy hopefuls wanting to take part in the ‘unfiltered and uncensored comedy competition series’ series, but it is open only to US residents. The application form asks: ‘Do you have the explosive and razor sharp talent to impress comedy's biggest titans? Prove it.’

Last Comic Standing ran for nine series and helped launch the careers of stand-ups including Gabriel Iglesias, Iliza Shlesinger and Have I Got News For You US host Roy Wood Jr. Brits took part  in some series, including Matt Kirshen, Paul Foot and Gina Yashere – who launched her American career on the back of it.

Published: 13 Aug 2025