Picture a New York storyteller who swapped TV laughs for heartfelt romance—meet Sidney Karger! This award-winning screenwriter turned novelist has charmed readers with his witty, LGBT-friendly romantic comedies, blending humor with heart. From crafting sketches for Saturday Night Live to penning the beloved novel Best Men, Karger’s journey is as vibrant as his stories.
Born and raised in the United States, Karger now calls New York City home, where he lives with his partner and their Australian Labradoodle, Zelda. His knack for sharp dialogue and relatable characters has made him a standout in both Hollywood and publishing, with a career that’s as diverse as it is delightful.
The Making of Sidney Karger
Karger’s creative spark ignited early, fueled by a love for storytelling that led him to comedy writing. After honing his craft with improv training at UCB in New York and The Annoyance Theater in Chicago, he landed gigs with Comedy Central, MTV, and AMC. His work as a writer and director for these networks, alongside contributions to Billy On The Street and McSweeney’s, showcased his flair for humor. Karger’s big break came with Saturday Night Live, where he contributed to sketches that kept audiences laughing. But beneath the TV hustle, a dream simmered: to write a novel that would capture the messy, beautiful reality of modern love.
Sidney Karger’s Unforgettable Stories
Karger’s debut novel, Best Men (2023), is a hilarious and heartfelt romantic comedy that follows Max Moody, a gay New Yorker navigating friendship and love as the man of honor at his best friend’s wedding. Praised by Anderson Cooper as a “big-hearted, feel-good summer escape,” the book blends sharp banter with poignant moments, set against a vividly drawn New York City. Its fresh take on the rom-com genre earned spots on Good Morning America and The Today Show.
His follow-up, The Bump (2024), takes readers on a cross-country road trip with Biz and Wyatt, a gay couple expecting a baby via surrogate. With their dog Matilda in tow, the duo faces detours and dilemmas, exploring parenthood and partnership with Karger’s signature wit. Critics, including Molly Shannon, called it a “laugh-out-loud and moving adventure,” likening its humor to Steven Rowley’s The Guncle. Karger’s style—dryly witty, Nora Ephron-esque, and rich with pop culture nods—makes his stories both accessible and deeply relatable.
Beyond novels, Karger’s screenwriting shines. His short film Daddy, a comedy about a gay man giving birth, won HBO’s LGBT Short Film Competition and screened globally. His TV dramedy Bangs is in development, promising more of his clever storytelling. Each project reflects Karger’s ability to weave humor with emotional depth, often centering queer narratives.
Why Sidney Karger Matters
Sidney Karger’s impact lies in his ability to redefine the romantic comedy for a modern audience. His LGBT-friendly stories celebrate love in all its forms, offering representation that feels authentic and joyful. By blending humor from his TV roots with the intimacy of novels, Karger creates characters who feel like friends—flawed, funny, and searching for connection. His work resonates with readers craving inclusive, uplifting tales, making him a vital voice in contemporary romance.
In a world that can feel heavy, Karger’s stories are a reminder to laugh, love, and embrace life’s messiness. His transition from screen to page inspires aspiring writers to chase their dreams, no matter the medium.
- Born: United States
- Key Works: Best Men (2023), The Bump (2024), Daddy (short film)
- Awards: HBO LGBT Short Film Competition winner
- Fun Fact: Lives with his partner and dog Zelda in NYC
Snag Best Men or The Bump and dive into Sidney Karger’s witty, heartwarming world of romance!