Sam Taunton

Sam Taunton is an electrifying presence in Australian comedy, known for his sharp wit and engaging storytelling. After becoming a RAW National Finalist in 2015, handpicked by the Melbourne Comedy Festival for The Comedy Zone (2016), Sam burst onto the scene in 2017, earning a nomination for Best Newcomer at the Melbourne Comedy Festival with his debut solo hour, ‘Taunts Down For What’. This performance not only garnered him numerous accolades but also a nomination for Best Comedy at Perth Fringeworld, setting the stage for his booming career.

Sam's rise continued with his 2019 solo show, Straight From The Shoulder, which charmed audiences across Australia and led to a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe. This show earned him the prestigious Pinder Prize at the Melbourne Comedy Festival, solidifying his reputation as one of Australia’s hottest young Aussie comedic talents. His comedy has taken him far and wide, with tours across Australia, Asia, and India as part of the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. He is also a fixture at major events such as Splendour In The Grass and the Falls Festival.

In addition to his festival successes, Sam has been a dynamic force on the comedy circuit. His performances have graced prominent venues including the Sydney Opera House as part of ‘Just For Laughs’. He has appeared on various television and radio platforms, including Channel 10’s ‘The Project’, ABC2’s ‘Comedy Up Late’, MTV, SBS, Channel [V], ABC Radio, HIT Networks, NOVA, and triple j. In 2018, Sam also recorded an hour-long stand-up special for ABC TV's highly coveted ‘Comedy Next Gen’ series.

Sam’s versatility can also be seen through his role as a roving reporter for The Project and as a host on a weekly segment on Triple J Breakfast. His role as a VJ for MTV involved interviewing major stars like Mark Ruffalo, Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, and Chris Hemsworth. Notably, he made Zac Efron apologise for his less-than-stellar Aussie accent, a testament to his sharp comedic edge.

Before comedy, Sam was a junior golf champion with a scratch (zero) handicap at just 16 and holds a degree in political science. Despite his diverse talents and accomplishments, including a brief and humorously downplayed stint hosting a show about ‘Geordie Shore’, Sam's passion for comedy remains at the forefront of his career. He often draws on his eclectic background to bring fresh perspectives and humour to his performances.

Sam’s quick-fire punchlines and captivating stage presence have made him one of the most in-demand comedians in the country. As he continues to captivate audiences and pursue critical acclaim, Sam’s shows promise a unique blend of personal anecdotes, cultural commentary, and comedic brilliance. With his relentless drive and distinctive comedic style, he is poised to make his mark with what he hopes will be his award-winning breakthrough show.