Bangladeshi-American comedian Usama Siddiquee has been selected for Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch for 2026, joining nine emerging performers recognised for their rising profiles and impact on the comedy scene.
The annual list was announced by the US entertainment magazine on 4 November. Comedian Hasan Minhaj, who endorsed Siddiquee, praised his dedication, perseverance and commanding stage presence, describing him as a standout talent whose success has been years in the making.
Minhaj, who said he has known Siddiquee for nearly a decade, reflected on the comedian’s rise from performing at open-mic events to appearing on major stages. He highlighted Siddiquee’s participation in Kevin Hart’s Funny AF comedy competition, noting that audiences were chanting his name even before he took the stage. Minhaj also recalled Hart crowning Siddiquee during a live recording at New York’s Village Underground.
Siddiquee joins fellow honourees Wally Baram, Olivia Carter, Aaron Chen, Adam Friedland, Kyle Gordon, Shapel Lacey, Eilise Patton, Josh Ocean Thomas and Lucas Zelnick on this year’s list.
Launched in 2000, Variety’s annual initiative has spotlighted a number of comedians who later became leading figures in the industry, including Zach Galifianakis, Maria Bamford, Patton Oswalt, Nate Bargatze and Nikki Glaser.
The 2026 honourees are scheduled to perform at a special showcase during the New York Comedy Festival on November 12 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Times Square.
