Calgary comedian Harshaun Gill approaches stand-up with disarming self-deprecation and an instinct for pushing audiences just far enough out of their comfort zone. Influenced as much by cartoons as by comedy greats, his material blends absurdity, blunt honesty, and an almost confrontational curiosity about what people will tolerate—before eventually pulling them back in. Gill’s sets thrive on tension and release, earning laughs not by playing it safe but by testing the limits of connection in the room. Whether performing on a now-defunct lounge stage or a festival showcase, he’s at his best when the crowd is split—and still laughing by the end.
How would you describe your comedy style?
Extremely dated. My entire act’s been done before.
Who are some of your influences?
I’m a big fan of Hannibal Buress, Geoffrey Asmus, Corey Seckinger, and Richard Pryor, but shows like South Park and Futurama were my introduction to comedy. Cartoons formed the foundation of my sense of humour. Shoutout Matt Groening.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Bart Simpson.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Homer Simpson.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I’ll usually write out a quick set list, but that’s about it. Sometimes I’ll listen to Tyle,r the Creator while driving to a show and get really energized.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I was on a show at this lounge that doesn’t exist anymore. I can’t remember the name. When I was about to get off stage, this dude in the front row was like, “Where the hell are you going? I wanna keep laughing.” That felt awesome.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
Right now, I have a bit about tasting my own cum that always splits the crowd evenly into people who love it and want to hear more, and people who are completely disgusted and think I should be jailed. I usually manage to bring them all together by the end. Usually.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Live shows are the best; that’s the way standup is meant to be watched. YouTube is also good, nowadays there’s so many specials directly uploaded there. Plus there’s tons of archival footage of older stuff you wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else. Recently, I’ve been watching very early sets from now-famous comedians.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Write me an article about your mom.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I run a monthly show at this great café called Boa and Hare.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Moe Aden rocks.
