Matt Rife is a stand-up comedian who first gained recognition on TikTok. Now, his Netflix special has drawn controversy – but is it fair to criticize his jokes?
Rife recently cancelled two comedy shows in Indiana and postponed his Chicago Theatre and Ryman Auditorium performances, offering refunds to any fans who purchased tickets for these shows.
He grew up in a small town in Ohio
While Matt Rife may now appear to be an established comedian, that wasn’t always the case. Growing up in Ohio’s small towns inspired his dream to become a stand-up comic; with support from his mother he began performing at local comedy clubs where he gained experience performing in front of an audience while perfecting his material.
From his childhood experiences, he learned the value of resilience and determination – qualities which have enabled him to overcome difficulties in his career and become an acclaimed comedian. Furthermore, his family has provided emotional support.
He enjoys an excellent relationship with his siblings and often collaborates on creative projects together. Additionally, he maintains an active social media presence – keeping fans entertained with sketches and behind-the-scenes content from ‘Wild ‘N Out. He remains unfazed by offending someone and often addresses critics on social media; his candid approach has earned him both fans and critics.
He was a fan of stand-up comedy
Matt Rife has been performing comedy since he was fifteen. Beginning his comedy career at local comedy clubs and eventually making an appearance on MTV’s Wild n Out as its youngest cast member. Since then he has gone on tour with DL Hughley, Ralphie May and Dane Cook while appearing on BET’s ComicView as well.
He experienced massive success on TikTok after a clip of his crowd work was shared across the platform and went viral in 2022, becoming an overnight phenomenon with millions of followers.
However, some of his jokes regarding domestic abuse have caused considerable outrage and backlash. Yet despite this backlash he remains unwavering in his views; insisting that everyone deserves the freedom to say whatever makes them laugh if it makes others smile too. Furthermore he contends that any critics are mistaking context and intent – an argument frequently put forward by conservative comedians.
He moved to Los Angeles in 2022
Matt Rife has quickly established himself as one of comedy’s rising stars since making an impactful mark with viral content on TikTok and Instagram. The young comic excels at exploring pop culture topics as well as human sexuality through his comedy skits.
He began as a regular bar and club comedian before gaining global popularity on TikTok with over 10 million followers, leading him to release his debut stand-up special on Netflix called Natural Selection which launched November 2023.
Rife now works full-time as a comedian who tours around the country. At his shows, he engages the crowd, often engaging with audience members to grab their attention and keep his material relevant and up-to-date. He has also proven his acting chops on small screen projects. Yet Rife remains true to his Ohio roots by enjoying outdoor activities in Ohio’s rural setting; eventually moving back to Texas ranch life after having found success here.
He got his start on TikTok
Matt Rife’s viral TikTok clip that propelled him into fame will now be featured as the basis of a Netflix comedy special, reaching an enormous global audience and potentially altering the course of his career forever. However, all this glamour often comes at a cost: Netflix specials have come at great expense to Rife personally as well.
This special is especially controversial due to its offensive jokes which have garnered wide public outrage, such as homophobic, sexist and racist jokes. Furthermore, its retrogressive direction has raised serious concerns regarding whether comedy should make fun of vulnerable groups of people.
Even during its controversial run at Just For Laughs 2021 festival, Rife continued defending Natural Selection’s work and has even supported Tony Hinchcliffe whose set was accused of racism after it incendiated people. Rife recently appeared on a panel to discuss cancellation culture and was there in defense of both comedians as a group as well as Tony himself who were accused of racism after an incendiary set at Just For Laughs festival 2021.