A new streaming service dedicated solely to the biggest and best stand-up comedy from across the UK has launched in a move that could force Netflix to seriously up its game.
NextUp will give viewers the chance to enjoy stand-up from some of the biggest names in comedy including familiar favourites like Stewart Lee and Richard Herring among others.
Priced at around £3.50 a month, with a 30-day free trial offer also available to first-timers, the service will also give subscribers the chance to sample some of the most exciting up-and-coming acts on the UK scene.
In one notable coup, the service will also allow users to not only stream entire sets but also download them – a feature that has so far been missing from Netflix.
Founded by YouTube stand-up channel ComComedy, alongside Stuart Snaith and producers Turtle Canyon, co-founder Sarah Henley told Chortle the new service was put together out of a desire to give UK comedians greater levels of exposure.
“We found it exceptionally sad that we would come to the Edinburgh Fringe every year and see incredible, lovingly crafted shows, which would maybe tour, but then disappear completely, with only a small handful of comics getting DVD deals,” Henley said.
The result is NextUp, a service seemingly inspired by NBC’s Seeso comedy streaming platform which is currently only available in the US.
NextUp’s arrival only spells good news for comedy fans too, with Netflix likely to redouble its efforts in this particular department with new comedy shows and stand-up specials both a distinct possibility.
For now though, it might just be worth seeing what NextUp has to offer – you may just uncover the next Bill Hicks. Or Jim Davidson. Who knows.
Loaded staff writer Jack Beresford has produced content for Lad Bible, Axonn Media and a variety of online sports and news media outlets.