Joe Rogan, the controversial podcaster and comedian, is set to release his new stand-up special, "Joe Rogan: Burn the Boats", on Netflix. This event marks a significant moment for the streaming giant, as they continue to invest heavily in live event programming and stand-up comedy. However, the special's significance for the world of comedy itself is debatable.
Rogan's success stems from his wildly popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience", which boasts 14.5 million followers on Spotify. The show features Rogan engaging in free-flowing conversations with a diverse range of guests, from celebrities and scientists to controversial figures. While the podcast has garnered widespread attention, it has also attracted criticism for its promotion of conspiracy theories, including anti-vaccine sentiments, which led to boycotts from artists like Joni Mitchell and Neil Young.
Despite the controversy, Rogan's podcast has propelled his stand-up career to new heights. His recent tour saw him sell out London's O2 arena, a testament to the power of his online fame. "Burn the Boats" is likely to capitalize on this momentum, potentially becoming a tentpole moment for Netflix, showcasing the platform's commitment to stand-up and live events.
However, Rogan's comedy has never been groundbreaking or particularly unique. His stand-up, like his podcast, often revolves around familiar themes, such as the perceived over-sensitivity of modern society, and the "cancel culture" phenomenon. While some find his humour appealing, many argue that his popularity stems more from his outspoken, often controversial viewpoints than his comedic talent.
Rogan's approach to social issues often involves a blend of credulity and iconoclasm, appealing to those who identify with his "against the grain" persona. This has led to comparisons with other "rent-a-provocateurs" like Ricky Gervais, Dave Chappelle, and Jimmy Carr, who have built their careers around pushing boundaries and uttering the supposedly "unsayable".
Netflix has become a dominant force in the world of stand-up comedy, providing a platform for a wide range of performers. While the platform has commissioned successful specials from diverse and well-received comedians like John Mulaney, Mae Martin, and Hannah Gadsby, it has also faced criticism for platforming sets by comedians like Carr and Gervais, whose material has been labelled as bigoted.
While Rogan's brand of humour may not be as overtly controversial as some of his contemporaries, the marketing of his special and his popularity amongst those opposed to "cancel culture" make comparisons unavoidable.
Rogan's remarkable success in a world increasingly influenced by misinformation and online grievance is a stark reminder of the factors that contribute to a comedian's "making it" today. While his fans may see "Burn the Boats" as a celebration of his comedic talent, many see it as a reflection of a society where controversial opinions often take precedence over genuine humour.
"Joe Rogan: Burn the Boats" premieres on Netflix on August 3rd, 2023.
