Irish comedian gets a full Edinburgh Fringe run

Ashlee Bentley has won a fully-funded run at the Edinburgh Fringe after triumphing at the final of the Magners' Share the Craic competition in London last night.

The Irish comic wins a full run at Underbelly at next month’s festival, including accommodation, travel and professional support in a package worth more than £15,000.

On receiving the news she thanked judges for the vote of confidence, saying: ‘I almost quit comedy because I felt I wasn’t good enough… and sure, I might not be. Come to Edinburgh and find out!

‘This is unbelievable – ridiculous! I couldn’t afford to go to Edinburg any other way. I’m really grateful.’

Bentley was a finalist in the 2018 Funny Women competition and has performed tour support for Ed Byrne and Fern Brady. She previously attended the Fringe with a  50-minute show, which she performed for two weeks in 2015.

More than 500 comedians entered the Magners' competition, with Tim Biglowe, Adam Jones, Murph and Catriona Paterson also making the final.

Marina Dixon, head of programming at Underbelly, said before the event: ‘It’s been brilliant to see the quality of the talent entering the competition and we can’t wait to help support the winner as they take that all-important next step in their career at the Edinburgh Fringe.’

Full review to follow.

Published: 1 Jul 2026