Babatunde Aleshe Wins 2023 BBC New Comedy Award

Comedian and actor Babatunde Aleshe takes home Best Newcomer title

Shaparak Khorsandi and Lucy Beaumont short-listed and highly commended

Comedian and actor Babatunde Aleshe has been crowned the winner of the 2023 BBC New Comedy Award.

The 36-year-old was awarded the title at a ceremony in central London.

Shaparak Khorsandi and Lucy Beaumont were also shortlisted for the prize, which recognises the best new comedy talent in the UK,

Aleshe will now receive a development deal with BBC Studios, a monetary prize, and a slot on the BBC Radio 4 stand-up showcase. He will also appear on a special edition of Live at the Apollo, to be broadcast on BBC One.

Aleshe said he was "overwhelmed" to receive the award, and thanked his family, friends, and fans.

"This is a dream come true and I cannot wait to get started on the next chapter of my career."

Aleshe is a rising star in the comedy world. He has appeared on shows such as Mock the Week, Have I Got News for You, and Live at the Apollo.

He has also been nominated for several awards, including the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer in 2019.

The BBC New Comedy Award is one of the most prestigious comedy awards in the UK. It has been won by some of the biggest names in comedy, including Peter Kay, Lee Mack, and Russell Howard.