(Even if he is from North Macedonia)

North Macedonian comedian Vlad Ilich has been crowned British Comedian Of the Year  – taking home a £10,001 prize.

The award is the biggest in comedy, just £1 more than the winner of the Edinburgh Comedy Award wins.

During his set, Ilich revealed he had become a British citizen earlier this year.

Tom Ward narrowly came second, based on the votes of the audience at the Comedy Store in London. 

The other finalists were  Harriet Dyer, Michael Fabbri, Mary Bourke, Joey Page, Tal Davies, Stephen Owen and Mike Reed.

Hundreds of comedians apply for the competition, which this year comprised 22 regional heats and seven semi-finals.

Last year it was won by Luke Toulson and Alistair Williams in 2023.

Published: 2 Dec 2025