New York Comedy Festival

Zar the Star is a New York City-based stand-up comedian and content creator whose sharp wit, bold storytelling, and unfiltered takes have made her one of the most exciting new voices in comedy. Born in Tajikistan to an Afghan father and raised in Toronto, Zar brings her Afghan, Tajik, and Muslim identity into every punchline with humor that’s as bold as it is deeply personal. Her comedy draws from life as a refugee, a woman of color, and a chronic overthinker – delivering jokes that cut deep and land hard. With over 350,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Zar has built a loyal audience through viral prank calls, fearless stand-up clips, and chaotic character sketches. From exposing scam callers to breaking down generational trauma with humor, Zar’s comedy is honest, disruptive, and wildly entertaining. Whether she’s roasting her ex or clowning the internet, she doesn’t just make people laugh – she makes them feel seen.