Killjoy Comedy Season 2: Cast Q&A with Cassie, Joanne & Niki

When did you each realize you had a knack for comedy, the kind of funny that belongs on stage?

Joanne: Probably during my third show. I was convinced that only my friends would understand my sense of humour, but then a stranger came up to me afterward and said, “You’re so funny.” That stuck with me.

Cassie: Back in university, a guy invited me to his improv show. I remember thinking, “He’s on the team? I’m way funnier.” I went to one rehearsal, got cast immediately, and ended up performing for a crowd of about 150 people. It was the first time I felt naturally good at something.

Niki: I’ve always loved stand-up, but I didn’t fully embrace it until I joined an improv club during my master’s program. I quickly realized I preferred planning my jokes over improvising. I eventually took a controversial stand-up class (don’t @ me), and after that, stand-up started to matter more to me than my day job. That was the turning point.

Which standout moment from filming Killjoy Comedy sticks with you the most?

Cassie Barradas: During a taping, a heckler called my friend “Gay Ryan Gosling” or something along those lines. Honestly, it was perfect. My friend was thrilled, and it completely killed me.

Niki Mohrdar: My moment was a bit darker. I found out during my interview that a friend from the stand-up community, Dion Arnold, had passed away. That really hit me. On a lighter note, the audience that night was incredibly warm. I had a new joke that I had barely tested, and they were amazing. It reminded me that having fun and being yourself on stage is what really matters.

Joanne Tsung: I brought my dog to set. He’s not technically a support animal, but he’s definitely emotionally helpful. Oh, and before my set, I realized my pants were completely wrinkled. I had to walk up the street and borrow a steamer from a clothing store. Thankfully, they were super chill and helped me out.

Cassie, you and Carla Mah founded the duo Baby Syrup. Where did that name come from?

Cassie: It started during the pandemic when we were hosting fake Zoom business meetings with different themes. One of the characters we created sold a fictional product called “baby syrup” that promised youthful features. We quickly realized it sounded… suggestive. But we leaned into it. It’s weird and sticky and people remember it, which works for us.

What’s it like performing as a duo compared to doing solo stand-up?

Cassie: Performing with Carla is the best. We find each other funny first and foremost, and if the audience isn’t laughing, we just blame them. It’s freeing. Carla also has an amazing ability to shift into characters mid-joke, which makes it all flow. When we’re together on stage, I’m never worried about who delivers the laughs—we just trust each other and it clicks.

Joanne, How did you approach this season differently?

Joanne: I brought new material and a little more confidence. I’m still nervous, but I’m learning to lean into the growth and just see where it takes me as a performer.

Niki, your delivery is really distinct. You have a slow build-up that leads to a sharp punchline. Was that a conscious choice?

Niki: I honestly didn’t realize I had a style until you said that! I think I’m still figuring it out. Every performance pushes me to shape my voice, my stage presence, even how I move. I’ve noticed that the closer I get to being my true self on stage, the better it feels. That discovery process is really exciting.

For someone who’s never seen Killjoy, how would you describe its vibe?

Cassie: It’s comedy for people who care. It’s for those who see the world clearly and still know how to nail a punchline.

Niki: Joyful but grounded. Everyone brings real depth to their material, and that comes through without ever feeling forced.

Joanne: It’s thoughtful. You can tell people take time with their material and think about how it will land. It’s not about chasing headlines or cheap laughs. It’s about connection and intent.

Anything coming up that you want to plug?

Niki: I’ll be at the Vancouver Fringe Festival in September with Pillow Talk, a slumber party-themed comedy show I’m doing with Cass Furman. There’s karaoke, roasts about things like socks and sandals, truth or dare with the audience, and a new stand-up guest at every show.

Cassie: Carla and I are currently pitching an animated pilot. So if anyone out there is looking for two hilariously named comedians with a project ready to go, get in touch.

Joanne: Just follow me on Instagram. That’s where I’ll be.