Simon Kay: Sad Boi, Funny Guy – The Kiwi Comic Stirring Up Edinburgh’s Comedy Scene

Meet Simon Kay, a cheeky New  Zealand import now punching out laughs in Edinburgh. Over the last eight months, Simon’s been a staple in the club’s line‑ups—constantly proving he’s no one‑hit wonder. He’s previewing his solo show , Sad Boi, Funny Guy, alongside Shannon Brooke right here at The Comedy Cellar on the 17th July!

Simon is the kind of comedian who turns a quarter‑life crisis into a cracking set, seamlessly blending “sad boi” confessions with clever, off‑beat storytelling . he’s sharpening his quirk, writing jokes that are clever —maybe a bit too clever, he jokes himself .

Simon’s real talent? Keeping audiences on their toes —clever, unexpected lines that make folks laugh and think.

He’s carved a space for himself with an Edinburgh debut that’s earned buzz as a quirky, original stand‑up act  After eight months with the club, he’s not just gigging—he’s building something potent.

Stick around if you're after something grassroots, raw and refreshingly unscripted. Simon Kay’s here—and he's exactly the kind of alternative to the mainstream you've been craving.

Let’s kick off – who are you and where are you from?

Simon Kay, I'm all the way from New Zealand.

What first got you into comedy? Was it a moment, a meltdown, or just madness?

I always loved watching the Annual Comedy Gala in New Zealand on TV when I was growing up. I looked forward to it every year.

Who were your early comedy influences – the people who made you think, ‘I can do this’?

I loved watching Eddie Izzard and Danny Bhoy when I was younger. Danny Bhoy was part of the NZ gala a few times.

Describe your first gig – how bad was it? Or were you one of those annoying naturals?

It went surprisingly well. It was a pro line-up I had no business being on, but I knew someone who gave me the spot. The host did a great job and made it easy. It gave me a false sense of confidence about what comedy was going to be like.

What’s been your best gig moment so far – the one that reminded you why you do this?Probably my first ever solo show. It was a fantastic moment to get to the end and realise I entertained people for 45 minutes straight.

And your worst? The one you still wake up sweating about?

I try to forget those ones. The first 15-minute slot I did at a comedy club—I felt I was bombing so hard, I got off after 12 minutes. I really regret not pushing through to the end.

How would you describe your style of comedy for someone who's never seen you before?Silly and fun. I like to try to be a little clever with my jokes, cover topics that people aren't doing, and keep it a bit unexpected.

What’s your writing process like – notes on your phone, full scripts, or winging it on stage?I'm always well-prepared. My Google Drive is an absolute mess.

Do you think comedy is changing? Are things getting too safe or too sensitive?Comedy is always changing, but right now it's for the better. It’s becoming more diverse and I think it’s funnier. Comedians are more self-aware of the jokes they’re making and the effect those words have.

What’s the biggest challenge comedians are facing right now?

Tough one. Cost of living? Comedians need shows and audiences to develop, and it can be expensive to produce them. If shows are too expensive, a lot of people can’t afford to go, which is sad when people are priced out of enjoying live comedy.

Tell us about your Edinburgh Fringe show – what’s it called, what’s it about, and why should people come see it?

Simon Kay: Sad Boi, Funny Guy. It’s 45 minutes of all my best jokes. I’m always struggling with the problems in the world, and some of that shines through in the subject matter. The jokes always do end up being a bit silly, even if they are about a serious topic. I especially like to keep the audience guessing.

TICKETS

Finally – where can people find you online or in the pub afterwards? @simonkaycomedy on all your socials.

Grab tickets for Simon Kay & Shannon Brooke on the 17th July

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