The rise of comedian Matt Rife and the backlash surrounding his new Netflix special, Natural Selection.
Matt Rife, a 28-year-old stand-up comic and social media sensation, is making waves in the comedy world with his new Netflix special, Natural Selection. However, the success of the special has been overshadowed by controversy, as Rife faces criticism for jokes that make light of domestic violence and abuse. This article explores Rife’s journey to fame, the controversial remarks in his special, and his response to the backlash.
Who is Matt Rife?
Matt Rife gained popularity through social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, where he has amassed millions of followers. He has previously released self-produced comedy specials on YouTube and has made appearances on shows like MTV’s Wild ‘n Out and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Rife’s success on Netflix with Natural Selection marks a significant milestone in his career.
The Controversial Jokes from Natural Selection:
Natural Selection, filmed at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., opens with Rife recounting a visit to a restaurant in Baltimore where he encountered a hostess with a black eye. He proceeds to make a joke about her appearance, suggesting that she should be placed in the kitchen where no one has to see her face. Rife then remarks that he is “testing the waters” by starting the show with domestic violence, implying that the rest of the performance will be less controversial.
The Backlash:
Following the release of Natural Selection, Rife faced backlash for his jokes about domestic violence, particularly against women. Critics argued that making light of such a serious issue perpetuates harmful stereotypes and trivializes the experiences of survivors. Many took to social media to express their disappointment and concern over Rife’s choice of material.
Rife’s Response:
In an interview with Variety, Rife acknowledged that his comedy might be more popular with men, despite his overwhelming female fan base on TikTok. He expressed his desire to create comedy that appeals to a broad audience and debunked the misconception that his content is solely for a specific demographic. However, Rife has not directly addressed the controversy surrounding his jokes about domestic violence.
The Problematic Instagram Posts:
In response to the criticism, Rife posted two Instagram Stories that further fueled the uproar. The first story included a link that appeared to lead to an apology but instead directed viewers to a medical website selling helmets for people with special needs. The second story featured a new link that led to Rife’s YouTube page, where a comedy clip titled “Bad Santa” was posted. These posts only intensified the backlash, with viewers questioning Rife’s dismissive attitude towards the issue.
Conclusion:
Matt Rife’s Netflix special, Natural Selection, has ignited controversy due to jokes about domestic violence and abuse. While Rife has not directly addressed the backlash, his response on social media has only added fuel to the fire. The incident serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comedians have to consider the impact of their material, especially when it involves sensitive topics. As the conversation surrounding Rife’s special continues, it raises important questions about the boundaries of comedy and the role of accountability in the entertainment industry.
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