Comedian Turns Tide: As Americans Seek Laughs Elsewhere, Hollywood Heeds the Call

What is the most recent truly great comedy film?

It has become a topic of discussion among comedians, comedy actors, and writers, particularly following "The Joe Rogan Experience." devoting an episode to it.

Comedian Steve Byrne, who recently filled up five performances at Rogan's newly opened venue during SXSW’s yearly comedy fest, provides insight.

If you haven't encountered Byrne from Rogan's Comedy Mothership, then undoubtedly you're familiar with him through his work. "Sullivan & Son" days, or his popular videos on social media. The seasoned comic took a seat for an interview. only through Fox News Digital In Austin, Texas, before his fifth and final performance last weekend, he jokingly addressed some of his most memorable career failures and tearfully reflected on his bond with Vince Vaughn.

But regarding the comic, the movie industry’s recent trajector Y is not something to be taken lightly, pointing out movies such as "Bridesmaids," "Wedding Crashers," "Superbad," and "The Hangover" as among the final examples of "intense, R-rated, unrestricted" films to reach cinema screens.

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The latest entry in the lineup — "Bridesmaids" — was released 14 years ago in 2011. Those preceding it support Byrne's assertion that comedies from the 2000s were, much to the dismay of many, a phenomenon of the past.

Hollywood nowadays could improve its performance. enabling comedians to display their humor Byrne shared with the outlet, “I worry that my children are part of a generation missing out on those types of communal jokes, experiences, and cultural references that many of us grew up with. It’s concerning because Hollywood isn’t producing comedies anymore; they’re not willing to take risks.”

Byrne suggested that Hollywood's "shortcomings" might be why stand-up comedy surged in popularity, stepping into the gap left by underperforming Hollywood comedies.

Previously, comedians did not fill up entire arenas as they do today, with several now becoming major draws at these venues. This shift occurred because Hollywood hasn’t been producing enough comedy movies to meet audience demand. As a result, people are finding entertainment through stand-up performances in arenas instead.

And mathematics confirms this. According to Pollstar, Revenue from stand-up performances increased twofold between 2022 and 2024, with the total gross earnings for the leading 25 comedians over the last year amounting to $582.7 million.

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The comic offered some guidance to prominent figures in Hollywood who might be following the latest changes in trends, suggesting that if these industry leaders were "wise," they would allow current best-selling comedians to simply "let loose."

If Hollywood were wise, they’d allow some of these comedians more freedom instead of being overly restrictive—especially considering what Bill Burr has achieved. What Shane Gillis has done. These are blueprints. Clearly, there is an interest for someone to adapt them into a narrative format and create movies from them.

The solution? Byrne opted to write and helm movie scripts personally. Although his recent venture might not be explicitly rated as "hard R," and despite being unable to disclose specific details about the project at this time, he informed Fox News Digital that he is presently “signing an agreement” with a well-known individual who has possibly appeared in “The Office.”

Byrne, whose comedic act encompasses everything from monologues to interacting with the audience (known as crowd work in comedy circles), takes pride in his ability to mock everybody—including both ends of the political spectrum.

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He has just completed work on his newest comedy special titled "Violent Moderate," where he included what he describes as his "riskiest" joke so far. In an interview with Fox News Digital, he mentioned wanting to adopt a more balanced approach. He characterized the entertainment sector as being predominantly "progressive and leftist," and discussed how this has led to growth in alternative platforms beyond Hollywood’s traditional influence.

"I believe that’s why folks are moving away from conventional sources to go to Your Mom's House or Rogan's podcast , etc., etc., because they're not getting their fix from these other mainstream elements that, you know, pretty much only primarily support people that agree with them and play in their same sandbox."

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Rogan himself concurred, taking to his podcast To ask the question: "Can awakened individuals create comedy? Is there an effort towards making politically correct comedy films?"

Even though he feels frustrated with the industry, Byrne stated to Fox News Digital that there isn’t anything better than working in comedy.

He stated, 'I believe being a stand-up comedian is the best profession imaginable.' The ability to seize a recognizable concept or an idea from thin air, present it to a group of unfamiliar people, and evoke only one response—laughter—is unparalleled.'

"Saturday Night Live" legends say comedy has grown bigger, 'snarkier,' and more political.

Who are this A comedian's favorite comedians—who might they be? Byrne has some favorites in mind.

He mentioned, 'Nobody can make me laugh as much as Bryan Callen does.' He believes that Bryan is not only incredibly witty but also highly skilled and exceptionally talented, which allows him to truly amuse his audience.'

Byrne also pointed to renowned comedian Sebastian Maniscalco , saying his "contempt for mankind" is "bloody hilarious."

Bill Burr exhibits a comparable passion for expressing irritation, as Byrne pointed out.

Billy might phone me without saying 'hello' at all. He won’t ask how I’m doing; instead, he’ll launch into a rant lasting about three minutes, expressing his disgust over some issue.

What I still manage to overhear in private settings nowadays... are some of the most amusing discussions.

In the end, the comedic figure referenced long-time pal Vince Vaughn —who produced the 2010s TV show "Sullivan & Son" and other works written by Byrne — considers him not just "the funniest person" he has ever encountered in his lifetime but also potentially his closest friend.

Vince Vaughn isn’t classified as just a comedian; he’s what we call a comedic actor—but make no mistake, he ranks among my closest companions, possibly even topping the list as my very best friend. Let me assure you unequivocally: Vince is without question the most hilarious person I have encountered throughout my lifetime.

Vince possesses an inherent talent that allows him to effortlessly reach the core of success. He skips all the unnecessary steps. In contrast, I must put in significant effort as I am not naturally inclined that way... However, Vince could easily perform this task at a superior level tonight compared to what I can achieve consistently over a 60-minute period, despite my experience spanning 25 years.

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Byrne completed the cycle by sharing that without Vaughn, he might never have begun writing for film and television.

He told me, “You ought to create something just for you.” To which I replied, “The only things I’ve ever penned down were jokes.” He responded, “Surely, you can manage it. Write your very own show. Given that you’re both Korean and Irish... craft your personal story.” Following his advice, I purchased numerous books and after half a year, handed over the draft of "Sullivan & Son” to him. With surprise evident in his voice he commented, “How often did I talk about such ideas with pals who would merely nod along? Yet here’s what you came up with!” Then he added excitedly, “Tonight will be my first chance to dive into this manuscript.” That was precisely when "Sullivan & Son" took shape... It makes me feel deeply sentimental because everyone deserves having an encouraging buddy like him around.

Original article source: A comedian and TV show creator delivers a message to Hollywood as Americans seek humor from different sources.