Sam Ridley

Adult Stand Up Comedian

5.0 (6 Reviews)

Also Performs As: Actor
Country: United States
Based In: Palmdale, California
Performs: Worldwide
From: $800

16 Years doing stand up comedy, 20 Year Air Force Veteran and mental health advocate. Bio and references at website link www.samridleycomedy.com

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Description

Adult Stand Up Comedy
Clean Stand Up Comedy
Mental Health Advocate
Veteran suicide Awareness Project Spokesperson

Biography

Whether selling out comedy venues or co-hosting a top-rated weekly podcast, Sam Ridley has come a long way from his roots in Virginia Beach, VA. Now a SoCal resident, this 10-year veteran comedian has a penchant for storytelling. His ability to weave realistic tales with punchy jokes that take viewers on a ride from start to finish has led audiences to regularly compare him to the iconic Dave Chappelle.
He's known for his ability to connect with people by skillfully blending humor into real-life experiences that resonate with all audiences. His skills afforded him the opportunity to work wit ... h notable comics, including Paul Rodriguez, Nikki Glaser, Tony Baker, Sarah Silverman, Ryan Davies, and Tim Meadows. He also occasionally appears on national TV shows, such as The Talk with Sharon Osbourne and 25 Words or Less with Tisha Campbell.
As the former host of the Belly Room at the World Famous Comedy Store in Los Angeles, Sam regularly tours the country featuring for comedy vets, hosting shows, and selling out venues. He is also the winner of the International Standemic Comedy Competition presented by Entertainment Max, as well as an annual comedy competition at the Arizona House of Comedy.
When he’s not lighting local and national stages on fire, Sam is busy with his other passion: podcasting. He is the co-founder and co-host of the Illegal Opinions Podcast. He and co-hosts Marcus Palmer and Neo Ken discuss a wealth of topics, where nothing is taboo and everything is real. Sam and Marcus started the “podcast for people who don’t like podcasts” in 2020, and today, the show has a loyal following on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Before delving into comedy, Sam was a member of the United States Air Force. As a veteran and mental health advocate, he is always willing to put his talents to a good cause, including hosting the 4th of July Summerbash event for over 2,000 troops and their families at Edwards Air Force Base.

Reviews (6 Reviews)

Sam Ridley - Adult Stand Up Comedian - Palmdale, California Event Location: Newport News, VA Event Type: Comedy show 3rd March 2025

Every comedian has a story. Every comedian has experiences that shape who they are and bring to the stage. What I've seen in Sam is someone who takes life's challenges and turns them into something people can laugh at, learn from, and relate to. As an Army veteran, comedian, and storyteller, he brings an authenticity that can't be taught. He doesn't just tell jokes. He connects with people. In a world full of comedians trying to be heard, Sam is one you'll remember. I'm not saying he's the funniest comedian in America. What I'm saying is, I've watched this man, and this is what I've seen. He definitely deserves a look.

Reviewed by: Mia Lloyd

Sam Ridley - Adult Stand Up Comedian - Palmdale, California Event Location: Virginia Beach Event Type: Celebration Of Life

In May of 2023, Sam hosted and performed at a private event in Virginia Beach, VA, to honor my late husband, who had passed away from brain cancer the previous month. He not only gave my family and me the red carpet treatment from the beginning of the event until the end of the night. He also delivered a funny, nuanced comedy set that had my children, in-laws, and me laughing. For a few hours, it didn't feel like we were in mourning. Sam's storytelling, care, and consideration made it feel like a true celebration.

Reviewed by: Kris Bell

Sam Ridley - Adult Stand Up Comedian - Palmdale, California Event Location: Riverside CA Event Type: Live show/Weekly Podcast

I've been a longtime follower of Sam Ridley through his podcast, Illegal Opinions, so getting the chance to see him perform live was something I had been looking forward to for a long time—and he absolutely exceeded every expectation. From the moment he took the stage, the energy was incredible. His quick wit, sharp observations, and natural storytelling had the entire audience laughing from start to finish. What makes Sam stand out is his ability to take everyday experiences and turn them into unforgettable comedy that feels both relatable and original. As someone who has listened to Illegal Opinions for years, it was especially rewarding to see the personality, humor, and authenticity that make the podcast so great come alive on stage. The show felt like catching up with an old friend who just happens to be one of the funniest people in the room. You can tell how much work, passion, and dedication he puts into both his podcast and his live performances. Thank you, Sam, for an am ...

Reviewed by: Storm Turner

Experience

International Standemic Comedy Competition (Entertainment Max)
Comedy Competition at the Arizona House of Comedy
Kenan Presents best of show, The Well Comedy Club
Virginia Beach Funny Bone Clash of Comics Winner
Headliner for Don’t Tell Comedy group
Headliner for Entertainment Max booking agency
Secret Comedy Los Angeles Headliner
Best of fest: Comedy Chateau International Comedy Festival
Military City comedy festival official selectee
Empire Comedy Festival official selectee
Laughlin Comedy Festival official selectee

Previous Clients

Punch Lines Comedy Club Sacramento
Hollywood Improv
Jon Lovitt’s Comedy Club (Regular weekly show host)
World Famous Comedy Store (Host - Belly Room) 2024-2025
Supernova
Ontario Improv
Kenan Presents (Best of show)
The Laugh Factory
The Well Comedy Club
Featured for: Kym Whitley, Tim Meadows, Jamie Kennedy, Ian Edwards, Drew Lynch

Suitable for

Anniversary Party Birthday Party (Adult) Casinos Cocktail Party / Drinks Reception Concerts / Tours Corporate Event Cruise Ships Festival / Outdoor Event Graduation Party High School Reunion HM Forces/Army/Navy/Military Event Hotel Event Private Party Restaurant / Bar / Pub Event Retirement Party Theaters / Stage

Acting Experience

America’s Court With Judge Ross
Man Of Steel (Uncredited)
25 Words or Less
CBS The Talk With Sharron Osbourne
The Face of Fox (Fox News)
VH1 Walk of Shame Shuttle
Payback (Unaired Pilot)
The Joke-Off (CW Network)
Sharon Reed (News Anchor/She Hulk) Mental Health interview

Physical Characteristics

Height: 5' 9"

Weight: 160

Eyes: Brown

Hair: Gone

Shoe Size: 9.5

Virtual Services Offer

Illegal Opinions Podcast

Say no to cancel culture, because here is raw truth with a splash of contrast. Welcome to the last place for real talk on the planet with comedian Sam Ridley and Marcus Palmer. Listen in weekly for unfiltered honesty on pop culture, society and relationships and things you thought you liked but shouldn't.

https://open.spotify.com/show/0cBFZLHLdcNUKdxof7px6G?si=309d3912a7a643c0

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