New Faces of Comedy : Creators
Program Overview
New Faces of Comedy : Creators
Program Overview
Just For Laughs is once again seeking bold, original voices who have mastered the art of engaging audiences on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram and are poised to take their comedy careers to the next level with New Faces of Comedy: Creators.
This initiative bridges the gap between digital and traditional comedy, connecting creators with industry professionals, including touring agents, TV and film executives, and top comedy mentors. Whether it’s making a greater impact online, transitioning to live performances, landing TV deals, or building brand partnerships, New Faces of Comedy: Creators provides direct exposure to key decision-makers who can help take your career further.
This year, JFL is once again teaming up with Smosh, the internet’s largest sketch comedy brand and a pioneer in creator-first entertainment, redefining comedy for the digital generation with over 75 million social followers. Creators will get the chance to connect with Smosh and may even have the opportunity to appear in Smosh programming at the festival or at their production hub in Los Angeles.
We are looking for creators who don’t just connect with their current audience — but who are positioned to expand it.
Guidelines
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Guidelines
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- Submission videos must contain material fully owned by the creator.
- Creators consisting of a group are admissible (please include the full names of all members in your submission). If selected, any travel stipend will be divided equally among group members. Hotel accommodation and other travel benefits will also be shared among group members.
- It is not required that the creator appear on camera in their own work.
- Past named New Faces (in any category) are eligible to apply.
- Submissions are open worldwide.
- All submitted video links must be in English.
- Selected candidates will be asked to curate a short sizzle reel for the 2026 Montreal showcase (this is separate from the Submission Video).
Submissions
What
Submissions
What
Submit one previously unreleased original 1–5 minute video, created specifically for this application. The content does not need to be related to JFL and should best represent your creative universe, including your format, tone, and unique point of view.
Note: If selected as part of New Faces of Comedy: Creators, this video will be released as a collaborative post with Just For Laughs in July.
Titre
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Titre
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Submissions should focus on content that is specifically made for the internet and can include (but is not limited to) the following: Shorts, Sketches, Animation, video-based talk shows or game shows.
Submissions should NOT include content that is filmed in front of a live audience or content primarily created for stage performances: Stand-Up Comedy, Improv, Audio Podcast Tapings, Live Concept Shows, or Talk shows recorded at comedy clubs or theaters.
Note: Please be mindful of other Just For Laughs programs like New Faces: Characters, Just For Laughs Shorts, Just For Laughs Pilots, etc. and make sure you are applying for the most applicable one.
Titre
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Industry Opportunity
As part of the Just For Laughs Montreal Festival,
selected Creators will:
Debut their unreleased Submission Video
Screen a short sizzle reel highlighting their most impactful work
Participate in a Q&A in front of key stakeholders
Development Opportunity
Being named a New Face: Creator goes beyond a single showcase.
Selected Creators may have the opportunity to develop an original concept with the JFL development team, pending mutual interest.
Timeline
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Timeline
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April 3rd, 2026
Submission Deadline
Mid-June
Notification of selection
End of June
Round 1 Sizzle Reel Due (notes provided)
Mid-July
Final Sizzle Reel Due
What Selected Creators Receive
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What Selected Creators Receive
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Each Creator will receive:
- A travel stipend for their travel to/from Montreal.
- Local ground transportation in Montreal.
- Up to three nights’ accommodation at a festival partner hotel.
- Group Note: If submitting as a group, members will split the travel stipend and hotel accommodations.
New Faces has long been a key part of the Just For Laughs experience. In 2026, we’re excited to continue discovering the next great digital talent.
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For more information on submission materials, you can contact:
Thank you for taking the time to submit! We look forward to your submissions.
Smosh
About
Smosh
About
Smosh is the internet’s largest sketch comedy brand and a pioneer in creator-first entertainment, redefining comedy for the digital generation. Founded in 2005 by viral comedy pioneers Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox, Smosh was one of the first creators on YouTube and helped shape it into what it is today.
Now an independent media and production company, Smosh continues to push the boundaries of digital-first comedy while fostering a diverse ensemble of talent. With over 75 million social media followers and 18 billion YouTube views, Smosh is a pop culture touchstone, producing a mix of scripted and unscripted content across its flagship channels – Smosh, Smosh Pit, and Smosh Games – as well as podcasts, livestreams, and interactive live event experiences.
In addition, Smosh has released two major studio films and became the first digital creators to have Madame Tussauds wax figures. Smosh is embracing its unique position as a sketch comedy collective for modern audiences, combining digital innovation with live entertainment to bring fans new, immersive experiences. To learn more, go to