From Bucket List to Comedy Spotlight: The Rise of Bougie B Bougé
Written by: Freya Zaidi
Comedy is an art form that thrives on authenticity, and few comedians embody that as boldly as Bougie B Bougé. With a sharp wit, unfiltered humor, and an undeniable stage presence, she has carved out a space for herself in the industry. What began as a simple bucket list item soon evolved into a thriving career, as she found encouragement from seasoned comics and drew inspiration from comedy legends like Sommore, Luenell, and Kat Williams. But beyond her personal journey, Bougie B Bougé has also been a force for representation in comedy, creating spaces where comedians of color can tell their stories without compromise.
Career & Comedy Background
What first inspired you to pursue comedy, and how did your journey begin?
It started as something to check off my bucket list. I went to an open mic, I didn't do too bad and a few seasoned comics encouraged me to work on my craft.
Who are some of your biggest influences in comedy, and why?
I grew up watching Black comedy shows, like Comic View and Def Comedy Jam. I look up to Sommore and Luenell. They are like the sexy, naughty aunties. I also love Kat Williams. As far as Canadian comedy, I am so thankful for Uncle Kenny (Kenny Robinson).
How do you handle stage fright or difficult audiences?
When I first started, I would always need a few drinks before performing. Now, I just get up there and do my thing. As far as audiences, I live by the motto "comedy is subjective, not objective." So I don't take it personally when I have to face tough audiences. Also, a good comedian should know how to pivot, so I often try to read the room.
Colored Only Comedy Show
What led you to start the Colored Only Comedy Show, and what was your vision for it?
When comedy started coming back after the pandemic, I kept seeing all-white lineups, and I was like, WTF? So I decided to be petty. I said, let's take it back to segregation, and I drew inspiration from those signs that would say "coloreds only" or "colored entrance" (you get the idea). My vision was for comedians of color to have a space and platform to speak their truths and speak about their experience being a person of color.
How do you choose the comedians for each show, and are there specific qualities you look for?
Some are friends, some are comedians I've seen on other shows whose comedy aligns with Colored Only, and some are visiting comedians who share their stories of being one of the few POC in their town. At the end of the day, to qualify: be a person of color and be funny.
How has the show been received by audiences, both within and outside the POC communities?
It's been received very well. Our audience members who are POC love watching comedy they can relate to, and white audience members also love it. I've had white audience members tell me how refreshing it is to get a different perspective or not have to watch six old white guys tell the same ten jokes.
Why is it important to have spaces like Colored Only Comedy Show that specifically showcase comedians of color?
Just like LGBTQ comedians have a space to share, laugh, and create, I feel like comedians of color should have the same. A space to laugh about our immigrant parents' quirks or being bullied for bringing ethnic food—without having to whitewash the joke to make it more palatable for non-POC comics/audience members.
Diversity & Representation in Comedy
What do you feel are the biggest challenges comedians of color face in the industry today?
Tokenism! Many shows only have one spot available for a POC and one spot for a woman. Many times, if a producer can get a two-for-one with a woman of color, they feel like they've done their part in creating a diverse lineup.
Do you think mainstream comedy is becoming more inclusive, or is there still a long way to go?
It really hasn't. When you consider the amount of comics in North America, many of them are POC—so how many are household names compared to their white counterparts? I find that every few years, they will push a small group of POC comics just to say, "See? We're diverse!"—and then the next year, it's back to only one representing for all.
What advice would you give to up-and-coming comedians of color trying to break into the industry?
Stick together! Don't pull up the ladder behind you. Don't be who they want you to be—be your true, authentic self. Example: when white comics tell me I can't use the N-word.
Personal Perspectives & Future Goals
What’s been the biggest surprise or learning experience in your career so far?
When I stopped trying to be funny, I became funnier. Also, just being my true, authentic self.
If you could collaborate with any comedian, past or present, who would it be and why?
I don't know if I would say collaborate (because comedy isn't a team sport), but I would love the opportunity to perform for Kat, Eddie, and Richard (may he rest in peace). Just the opportunity to make them laugh would be great.
What are your long-term goals for yourself and for Colored Only Comedy Show?
In 2025, I want to finally drop my first comedy album. I would also like to take Colored Only on tour across Canada.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with readers? Any shout-outs or upcoming dates?
Come to Colored Only! Everyone is welcome. First Saturday of the month at BSMT 254. Also, follow me on IG @therealbitchpudding to stay up to date on other shows that I produce.
Through her Colored Only Comedy Show, Bougie B Bougé has given a platform to underrepresented voices, ensuring that diverse perspectives are not just included but celebrated. Her work challenges the tokenism that still exists in the industry, proving that comedians of color deserve more than just a single seat at the table. With her sights set on recording her first comedy album and taking Colored Only on a national tour, her influence in the comedy scene is only growing. As she continues to push boundaries and uplift fellow comedians, Bougie B Bougé is not just making people laugh—she's changing the game.
Instagram therealbitchpudding
