History of the San Francisco Comedy Competition

The very first San Francisco Comedy Competition happened in the Bicentennial year of 1976. The winner was Bill Farley. The guy who came in second place was Robin Williams. Since that time, the competitors have emerged who have changed the face of entertainment. Surprisingly, it’s not always the champ that go on to to a prestigious career.

Over the years the San Francisco Comedy Competition has become a showcase for emerging talent. The acts you will see on stage may not be household names yet, but past comics who became household names include Ellen Degeneres, Patton Oswalt, Doug Stanhope to name a few.

We’ve published the names of the Top Five from each year on our Past Winners page.