Hit stand-up comedy show returns to iQIYI with new season

The popular stand-up comedy competition show The King of Stand-up Comedy is set to return to streaming platform iQIYI, with its new season premiering on July 11. Fresh episodes will be released every Friday and Saturday at 12:00 pm.

A media screening for the upcoming season was held last week, attended by Jiang Bin, senior vice-president of iQIYI, chief producer Tan Xiaohong, and comedians Xi Ha, Wang Yue and Lin Jianqi. Members of the media were given a sneak peek at highlights from the show, while the comedians shared behind-the-scenes stories about its production and creative process.

The first season, which aired last year, became a standout hit among variety shows and was nominated for Best Variety Show at the prestigious Magnolia Awards.

Season two, featuring 48 outstanding stand-up comedians—both solo performers and groups—from comedy clubs across China and overseas, continues the show's core narrative of ordinary individuals striving to become comedy kings.

Veteran comedian Wang Yue said, "This time, many talented newcomers have joined the show. No matter where they come from, they're all masters of the craft."

According to iQIYI, the new season brings significant upgrades in both its cast and content. "The newcomers this year are even more exciting than last year's—it really exceeded our expectations," said Tan Xiaohong.

Jiang Bin added, "The show is a platform, and the competition is just a format. We hope more viewers will discover these performers, and that the show brings joy to everyone."