Stand-up comedy has been a form of entertainment for centuries, with roots tracing back to ancient Greece and Rome. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that stand-up comedy became more mainstream and evolved into what we know and love today. With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, stand-up comedy specials have become increasingly popular and accessible to audiences around the world.
However, while some comedians have gained widespread recognition and fame through their comedy specials, there are many talented comedians whose specials have not received the attention they deserve. In this blog post, we will be highlighting 10 stand-up comedy specials that deserve more recognition. These specials may not have gained the same level of popularity as others, but they are just as funny, thought-provoking, and deserving of a spot on your watchlist.
So get ready to add some new comedy gems to your list and discover some hilarious comedians who may have flown under your radar. Without further ado, let’s dive into our list of 10 stand-up comedy specials that deserve more recognition.
Overview of stand-up comedy specials
Before we dive into our list, let’s first understand what stand-up comedy specials are and why they have become such an important part of the comedy industry.
Stand-up comedy specials are recorded live performances by comedians that are released as television specials or made available on streaming platforms. These specials typically range from 30 minutes to an hour or more and showcase a comedian’s best material, often revolving around a central theme or topic.
In recent years, streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO have become major players in releasing stand-up comedy specials, making them accessible to a global audience. This has opened up opportunities for comedians to reach wider and more diverse audiences, leading to increased recognition and success.
Criteria for deserving more recognition
While popularity and critical acclaim may be two of the most common factors used to determine the success of a comedy special, there are other important criteria that we will be considering for our list of stand-up comedy specials that deserve more recognition.
- Originality and uniqueness: We will be looking for specials that stand out from the rest in terms of originality and uniqueness. These specials may have unconventional styles or tackle unusual topics, but regardless, they bring something new and fresh to the table.
- Impact and relevance: A good comedy special not only makes us laugh but also makes us think. We will be looking for specials that have a deeper message or commentary on society and leave a lasting impact on viewers.
- Consistency and delivery: Consistency is key when it comes to stand-up comedy, and we will be looking for specials where the comedian’s jokes and delivery are consistently strong and engaging throughout the entire show.
Now that we have established our criteria, let’s dive into our list of 10 stand-up comedy specials that deserve more recognition.
Comedy special #1: “Judah Friedlander: America is the Greatest Country in the United States”
Hailed as one of the most underrated comedians in the industry, Judah Friedlander’s special “America is the Greatest Country in the United States” is an absolute gem that deserves more recognition.
In this special, Friedlander tackles heavy topics such as politics, racism, and sexism with his trademark deadpan delivery and clever wit. His unique brand of humor combines social commentary with absurdity, making for a refreshing and thought-provoking performance.
Friedlander’s material is not just funny, but also incredibly relevant and impactful. He uses his platform to address serious issues in a way that is both humorous and eye-opening, leaving viewers with a lot to think about long after the special is over.
One of the standout aspects of this special is Friedlander’s ability to engage and interact with the audience. He constantly asks for their opinions and takes on different personas to represent the various viewpoints in America. This adds a level of unpredictability and spontaneity to the show, keeping viewers on their toes and making it all the more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a comedy special that will make you laugh while also making you reflect on society, “America is the Greatest Country in the United States” is definitely worth a watch.
Comedy special #2: “Maria Bamford: Old Baby”
Maria Bamford is no stranger to the stand-up comedy scene, but her special “Old Baby” may have flown under your radar. In this special, Bamford takes her audience on a journey through her life, from her childhood to her struggles with mental health.
Bamford’s unique brand of self-deprecating humor and quirky personality shine throughout the show as she tackles sensitive topics such as depression, anxiety, and therapy. Her material is raw, honest, and relatable, making it easy for audiences to connect with her and her story.
One of the most impressive aspects of this special is Bamford’s ability to seamlessly transition from one character to another, showcasing her incredible range as a performer. She also incorporates her signature voice impressions and sound effects, bringing her jokes to life and adding an extra layer of hilarity.
Overall, “Old Baby” is a refreshingly honest and heartwarming special that deserves more recognition for its unique blend of comedy and personal storytelling.
Comedy special #3: “Cameron Esposito: Marriage Material”
In her special “Marriage Material,” comedian Cameron Esposito invites viewers into her personal life as she explores the ups and downs of marriage and relationships. Esposito’s sharp wit and effortless delivery make this special an absolute delight to watch.
One of the standout aspects of this special is Esposito’s ability to tackle serious issues with humor and grace. She openly discusses her experiences as a queer woman and the challenges she faces in a society that is still not fully accepting of the LGBTQ+ community.
Esposito also uses her platform to address important social issues such as sexism and rape culture, making “Marriage Material” not just a comedy special, but also a powerful statement on the state of our society.
Apart from her thought-provoking material, Esposito’s stage presence and charisma are undeniable. She effortlessly commands the stage and engages with the audience, making for a truly unforgettable performance.
Overall, “Marriage Material” is a must-watch for its mix of comedy, social commentary, and personal storytelling that makes for a unique and captivating stand-up special.
Comedy special #4: “Nate Bargatze: The Tennessee Kid”
If you’re looking for pure, unadulterated laughter, “Nate Bargatze: The Tennessee Kid” is the perfect comedy special for you. Bargatze’s dry humor and deadpan delivery make for an incredibly funny and enjoyable show.
In this special, Bargatze takes on everyday topics such as parenting, marriage, and technology, but with his own unique twist. His jokes are simple yet effective, and his delivery is so natural that it feels like he’s simply having a conversation with the audience.
One of the standout aspects of “The Tennessee Kid” is Bargatze’s ability to take seemingly mundane topics and turn them into hilarious anecdotes. He also incorporates personal stories and experiences, adding a relatable touch to his material.
Bargatze’s laid-back style combined with his clever writing and effortless delivery make “The Tennessee Kid” a hidden gem that deserves more recognition in the world of stand-up comedy.
Comedy special #5: “Iliza Shlesinger: Confirmed Kills”
Iliza Shlesinger has become a household name in the world of stand-up comedy, but her special “Confirmed Kills” may not have received the same level of recognition as her other shows. In this special, Shlesinger tackles topics such as dating, relationships, and social media with her signature high-energy and animated style.
One of the most impressive aspects of Shlesinger’s performance in “Confirmed Kills” is her impeccable timing and physicality on stage. She uses facial expressions and body language to add an extra layer of humor to her jokes, making them all the more hilarious.
Shlesinger also takes on societal double standards and sexism in her material, making for a refreshing and empowering show that will leave you laughing and feeling inspired.
With its mix of sharp observational humor and relatable storytelling, “Confirmed Kills” is a standout comedy special that deserves more recognition for its bold and unapologetic approach to the world of stand-up.
Comedy special #6: “Mark Normand: Don’t Be Yourself”
Mark Normand’s special “Don’t Be Yourself” may not have gained the same level of popularity as some of his peers, but it is definitely deserving of more recognition. Normand’s deadpan delivery and self-deprecating humor make for an incredibly funny and entertaining show.
In this special, Normand covers a variety of topics, from relationships to politics, with his own unique take on things. His jokes are clever and well-crafted, and his delivery is so effortless that it’s easy to get lost in laughter.
One of the standout moments in “Don’t Be Yourself” is Normand’s commentary on the current political climate and the rise of political correctness in society. He manages to tackle these sensitive topics with humor and finesse, making for a thought-provoking and hilarious performance.
Normand’s ability to balance dark and edgy humor with light-hearted and relatable content makes “Don’t Be Yourself” a hidden gem that deserves more recognition in the world of stand-up comedy.
Comedy special #7: “W. Kamau Bell: Private School Negro”
In his special “Private School Negro,” W. Kamau Bell uses his platform to tackle issues of race, class, and social injustice in a way that is both humorous and powerful. Bell’s material is thought-provoking and impactful, making for a special that goes beyond just making the audience laugh.
One of the standout aspects of this special is Bell’s ability to use humor as a tool to address serious issues and start important conversations. He is not afraid to push boundaries and challenge societal norms, making “Private School Negro” a truly unique and refreshing comedy special.
Apart from his powerful commentary, Bell’s stage presence and delivery are captivating and engaging. He manages to keep the audience hooked throughout the entire show, making for a performance that will leave a lasting impact.
With its blend of comedy and social commentary, “Private School Negro” is a special that deserves more recognition for its bold and unapologetic approach to tackling important issues through humor.
Comedy special #8: “Demetri Martin: The Overthinker”
Demetri Martin’s special “The Overthinker” may not have gained the same level of popularity as some of his other shows, but it is definitely deserving of more recognition. In this special, Martin’s trademark one-liners and clever wordplay take center stage as he covers a variety of topics with his unique brand of humor.
What sets “The Overthinker” apart from other comedy specials is Martin’s use of visual aids and props to enhance his jokes. From drawings on a large sketchpad to a mini keyboard, these visuals add an extra layer of humor to his already witty material.
Martin also incorporates music into his performance, playing guitar and harmonica to accompany his jokes. This adds a fun and creative element to the show, making it all the more enjoyable to watch.
With its clever writing, unique delivery, and visual aids, “The Overthinker” is a hilarious and well-crafted special that deserves more recognition in the world of stand-up comedy.
Comedy special #9: “Kyle Kinane: Loose in Chicago”
Kyle Kinane’s special “Loose in Chicago” may not have received as much attention as some of his other shows, but it is definitely a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. In this special, Kinane takes on topics such as growing up, aging, and relationships with his laid-back and conversational style.
One of the standout aspects of this special is Kinane’s ability to weave personal stories and experiences into his jokes, making them all the more relatable and hilarious. His self-deprecating humor and witty observations will have you laughing out loud throughout the entire show.
Kinane also engages with and involves the audience in his performance, making for an interactive and entertaining experience. He effortlessly commands the stage and keeps the audience engaged, showcasing his prowess as a skilled performer.
Overall, “Loose in Chicago” is a testament to Kinane’s talent as a comedian and deserves more recognition for its mix of personal storytelling and clever humor.
Comedy special #10: “Tiffany Haddish: She Ready! From the Hood to Hollywood”
Last but certainly not least on our list is Tiffany Haddish’s special “She Ready! From the Hood to Hollywood.” While Haddish has gained widespread recognition and success in recent years, this special may not have received the same level of attention as her other shows.
In this special, Haddish shares hilarious stories from her childhood and her rise to fame, using her signature high-energy and animated style. Her material is relatable and delivered with such enthusiasm and confidence that it’s impossible not to laugh along.
Apart from her comedic talents, Haddish’s charisma and charm also shine through in this special. She effortlessly connects with the audience and keeps them engaged throughout the entire show, making for a performance that is both hilarious and heartwarming.
With its mix of personal storytelling, humor, and an infectious energy, “She Ready! From the Hood to Hollywood” is a must-watch comedy special that deserves more recognition for its talented and dynamic performer.
Conclusion
Stand-up comedy specials have become a popular form of entertainment, and with the rise of streaming services, they have become more accessible to audiences around the world. While some comedians have gained widespread recognition and fame through their specials, there are many talented comedians whose shows have not received the attention they deserve.
In this blog post, we have highlighted 10 stand-up comedy specials that deserve more recognition. These specials may not have gained the same level of popularity as others, but they are just as funny, thought-provoking, and deserving of a spot on your watchlist. From social commentary to personal storytelling, these specials showcase the diverse and talented range of comedians in the industry.
So the next time you’re looking for a good laugh, don’t forget to add these hidden gems to your watchlist. And who knows, you may just discover your new favorite comedian. Happy watching!
