The Humor Mill

The Minority Comedians Who Are Dominating The Entire Comedy Scene In 2025

Posted Jul 19, 2025

From viral specials to sold-out tours and Emmy nods, African American comedians are leading the charge in 2025’s comedy renaissance. Whether through stand-up, streaming, or social media, these artists are reshaping the landscape with bold storytelling, cultural insight, and undeniable charisma.

Stand-Up Vets

ComedianProject(s)Highlights
Dave ChappelleThe Dreamer (Netflix), Summer Camp Tour17.4M views; sold-out shows in Ohio and Europe
Jamie FoxxWhat Had Happened Was… (Netflix)Emotional comeback; Golden Globe-nominated
Katt WilliamsArena Tour, Podcast AppearancesProvocative and packed performances
Ali SiddiqDomino Effect series, In the Shadows Tour40M+ views across specials; 34-city tour expansion
Deon ColeAverage Joe (TV), Stand-up TourBlending acting chops with sharp observational humor

TV & Streaming Leaders

ComedianShow/PlatformAccolades & Buzz
Quinta BrunsonAbbott Elementary (ABC)Emmy-nominated for acting & writing
Ayo EdebiriThe Bear (FX), Prodigies (Apple TV+)Lead Actress and Directing Emmy noms
Jessica WilliamsShrinking (Apple TV+)Supporting Actress Emmy nominee
Nicole ByerSummer of 69 (Hulu), Nailed It!Joyful irreverence meets hosting excellence

Writers, Directors & Multifaceted Voices

NameWork & Impact
Josh JohnsonTouring Flowers, writing Daily Show, podcast host
Sam JayWe the People (Fringe Festival), HBO special Salute Me or Shoot Me
Langston KermanBust Down, podcast My Momma Told Me

Digital & Viral Stars

ComedianPlatforms & Projects
DC Young Fly85 South Show, solo stand-up tour
Desi BanksElevation Tour, Desi Banks Productions
DruskiSkits, tour dates TBA
Tacarra WilliamsStand-up special My Favorite Season Is Men

Spotlight: Ali Siddiq & Marcus D. Wiley

Ali Siddiq

  • Released four new specials in 2025, including My Two Sons and Rugged, each racking up millions of views.
  • Expanded his In the Shadows Tour to 34 cities across North America.
  • Executive produced Marcus D. Wiley’s special Marriage Is Major Surgery, showcasing his commitment to uplifting fellow comedians.

Marcus D. Wiley

  • Touring nationwide with over 80 dates in 2025, including stops at Funny Bone, Improv, and Comedy Zone venues.
  • His special Marriage Is Major Surgery went viral with over 3 million views, blending clean comedy with heartfelt messaging.
  • Known for his motto: “Laughter is good, but the Message is better,” Wiley’s style resonates across generations.

The Cultural Impact

These comedians aren’t just making people laugh—they’re shaping conversations around race, identity, and representation. From Emmy stages to YouTube specials, African American comedians are proving that Black comedy is the heartbeat of the industry.

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