If it happens to be Sunday evening and you’re searching for something humorous to enjoy, or if you’ve recently experienced a breakup and are seeking some laughter therapy, or perhaps you’re an aspiring comedian yearning for inspiration – whatever your reason, having a Max subscription opens up a world of stand-up comedy specials tailored to all tastes in this curated list. In today’s times, stand-up comedy has garnered significant attention, leading to an influx of viewers on streaming platforms who can indulge in hour-long performances by some of the funniest individuals around. Initially, stand-up comedy was primarily confined to clubs where comedians would entertain a small audience and feed off their laughter. However, with the advent of streaming content and the growing demand for amusement through humor in our daily lives, we’ve witnessed a boom in comedians showcasing their talent in specials.
Delving from witty political commentary to imaginative ponderings, these stand-up comedy specials consistently test the limits of humor and challenge our minds while offering relaxation. Performers like Tig Notaro, Daniel Sloss (resonating with millennials), as well as established favorites such as Chris Rock and Tracy Ullman, are all featured in this collection. Therefore, without any more delay, let’s dive into the side-splitting stand-up comedy specials currently streaming on Max!
40
Seth Meyers: Dad Man Walking (2024)
In a shift from his late-night talk show duties, Seth Meyers moves center stage for his debut HBO stand-up special titled “Seth Meyers: Dead Man Walking“. The performance, captured at the legendary Vic Theatre in Chicago, spans an hour as he delves into topics close to home such as family life, marriage, and navigating parenthood in the bustling metropolis of New York City. With his signature wit, Meyers intertwines humor about his kids, their eccentricities, the gap between generations, and the amusing complexities of modern parenting, making these themes feel intimate and universally resonant.
Witty and Effortless Family Tales
Known as an alum from Saturday Night Live and a well-regarded TV host famous for his pointed political humor on Late Night with Seth Meyers, this Emmy-winning writer offers intelligent wit that resonates deeply with the audience. In this performance, his jokes focus on the amusing aspects of everyday family life, although they’re primarily geared towards parents. Fans of the comedian appreciate his relaxed, conversational style as an enjoyable experience.
39
Ramy Youssef: More Feelings (2024)
In a delightful continuation of his renowned performance, Ramy Youssef: Even More Feelings sees the comedian once again take center stage. The Max production, helmed by Christopher Storer, delves into the intricate and fragmented state of today’s world. Ramy further reveals a childhood book report that significantly influenced his life and discusses the challenges associated with charitable donations. With his unique blend of humor and self-reflection, he sheds light on diverse topics spanning from the 2024 election to the significance of prayer.
Humor Through a Cultural Lens
Ramy Youssef, a Golden Globe-winning actor and comedian, is primarily recognized for his pioneering, self-named Hulu series, exploring life’s complexities through the lens of faith and identity in today’s world. The special More Feelings seems to continue this theme due to its thoughtful and stimulating nature. The inclusion of personal anecdotes gives it a charming touch. A24 is responsible for producing this special, showcasing Youssef’s unique ability to transform real-life events into relatable experiences for all.
38
Nikki Glaser: Someday You’ll Die (2024)
Nikki Glaser’s “Someday You’ll Die” fearlessly delves into life’s toughest realities with a sharp, candid wit that leaves no room for apologies. This is precisely what Glaser advocates. Recorded at Seattle’s Moore Theater, the special sees her discussing topics such as aging, reluctance towards parenthood, societal pressures on motherhood, and even her own mortality. With unflinching honesty, Glaser examines every aspect of the female experience.
Raw and Fearless
Known for her distinctive comedic style that tackles taboo subjects head-on, Nikki Glaser is renowned for her straightforward approach. In this stand-up performance, she transforms existential anxiety into a hilarious spectacle, expressing her honest thoughts fearlessly. Apart from her popular work on ‘Not Safe with Nikki Glaser’ and her previous HBO special ‘Good Clean Filth’, as well as hosting the 83rd Golden Globes, she continues to showcase her bold, self-deprecating humor in this act.
37
Alex Edelman: Just for Us (2024)
In this engaging production titled “Alex Edelman: Just for Us“, humor and social insight are skillfully blended. Originating as a highly praised Broadway special, it revolves around Alex Edelman’s unique encounter – infiltrating a white nationalist gathering in Queens as a Jewish individual. As he narrates the surreal circumstances, he seamlessly incorporates tales from his childhood and contemporary prejudice into the narrative.
Breath of Fresh Air in Stand-Up
Alex Edelman is rapidly gaining recognition in the comedy scene, and despite initial reservations about newcomers, Edelman effortlessly keeps his audience amused with his clever joke structures and free-flowing conversations on various topics. Directed by Alex Timbers and produced by Mike Birbiglia, this special is not only humorous but also stimulating, demonstrating Edelman’s skills as a writer and performer. Titled “Just for Us“, the production earned him both a Tony Award and an Emmy Award.
36
Gary Gulman: Born on 3rd Base (2023)
Gary Gulman’s stand-up special on Max, titled “Born on 3rd Base,” delves into the peculiarities of growing up in a working-class Jewish family. Spanning an hour, this comedic performance addresses issues such as income disparity, privilege, personal struggles during childhood and adulthood, all while maintaining Gulman’s signature humor. He offers insightful critiques on billionaire culture and recounts his encounters with free school lunch programs in a clever and entertaining manner.
Literate Humor and Social Commentary
As a seasoned comedian, Gulman is well-versed in addressing contentious subjects with an unusual blend of wit and compassion, resulting in a humorous and amusing atmosphere. His method for comedy leans towards the intellectual, as demonstrated by his previous specials like “The Great Depresh“, which delved into mental health issues. Audience members appreciated his courage and distinctive style, and it received a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
35
Drew Michael: Drew Michael (2018)
Drew Michael: Drew Michael represents a unique stand-up comedy special, marking the first hour-long HBO performance for a writer on Saturday Night Live. In this special, he delves into humorous tales from his childhood, his relationship with parents, personal insecurities, and life’s mysterious rules. Michael lays it all out without reservation, skillfully employing his quick wit to navigate his apprehensions in an unexpected atmosphere.
An Experimental Comedy Special
In a surprising departure from his usual upbeat and approachable persona, filmmaker Michael delves into uncharted territories with his experimental style in this comedy special. Instead of the familiar bright settings, he opts for a stark black room as his backdrop, addressing the camera directly. This choice, coupled with incisive comments on complex themes such as anxiety and inner turmoil, creates an atmosphere that is both tense and unsettling yet captivating. The impeccable timing and subtle charm of his humor make this debut a remarkable one, even amidst its dramatic shifts in lighting and tone.
34
Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted (2015)
Titled “Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted“, this is Tig’s debut memoir-style comedy special. With a career that spans over years, starting as a radio talk show host and later venturing into the music industry, Tig recounts her life journey using her unique, deadpan humor style. The special delves into her personal experiences such as being diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing mastectomy surgery, grieving the loss of her mother, and more. Her raw comments and sincere storytelling leave audiences both surprised and touched.
A Raw Performance by Tig Notaro
In this comedy special, Notaro’s raw performance is deeply touching, not only because she reveals her physical scars to Boston midway through, but also due to her unique ability to elicit laughter from the audience as she humorously confronts her pain. Her fearless wit turns trauma into an uplifting experience, inviting audiences to face their own struggles together. The special’s understated yet powerful tone, which came to define Notaro’s style going forward, adds to its impact.
33
Carlin at Carnegie (1983)
Recorded at Carnegie Hall, New York City in 1982, Carlin at Carnegie represents George Carlin’s third stand-up comedy special. At the height of his fame, Carlin captured his sold-out performance, focusing on topics in everyday life that are often ignored or uncomfortable. Using some mature language and humorously commenting on society’s absurdities and the American ideal of contentment and homeownership, he demonstrates a masterful grasp of language.
A Classic George Carlin Special
*George Carlin’s performance at Carnegie Hall* stands as an enduring testament to comedy history. Without question, Carlin’s comedy was visionary for its era, consistently challenging societal norms and offering insightful satire. Uniquely, Carlin excelled in scrutinizing culture and scrutinizing everyday language with a microscopic eye. His keen observations and clever rhythm kept audiences enthralled and thoroughly amused. For any stand-up enthusiast seeking a genuine comedic genius, *George Carlin at Carnegie Hall* is an ideal choice.
32
Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles (2013)
In the ’90s, I had a short yet impactful journey as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live. However, Sarah Silverman didn’t stop there. She transformed herself for a unique television series. Titled “Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles“, this HBO special marks her first solo venture. In it, she reflects on life, people, and the universe with an infectious enthusiasm and quick-witted charm. Her biting wit and daring humor tackles topics such as self-gratification, the concept of God, and self-inflicted guilt, leaving audiences both amused and thoughtful.
Silverman Pushes Boundaries
As a devoted cinema enthusiast, there’s no denying that Sarah Silverman’s audacious and unabashed wit is a style that consistently leaves me both astounded and amused. She’s the comedian you can always count on, yet her devilishly clever jokes never fail to strike the perfect balance of intellect and laughter. Her boundary-testing humor on sensitive topics like religion and politics is as thought-provoking as it is laugh-out-loud funny, making heavy concepts seem lighthearted and finding meaning in the mundane. Through the art of stand-up, Silverman invites her audience to share in an unfiltered, joyous experience.
31
Jerrod Carmichael: Rothaniel (2022)
In the comedy special titled “Jerrod Carmichael: Rothaniel“, the comedian shares personal insights about his family heritage, aging, and feelings of isolation and apprehension. Kicking off with the phrase “I’d like to discuss secrets,” and engaging in a dialogue-like interaction with the audience, Carmichael captivates them with his authenticity and distinctive mix of narration and emotion, leaving everyone touched. The special was filmed at the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City.
A Conversation With Jerrod Carmichael
Over time, Carmichael has become a unique comedic voice. He’s renowned for his skill in tackling deep, personal topics while adding his distinctive humor and insight. His performances resonate deeply with audiences because they reflect his perspective and emotions so poignantly. In this 57-minute special, three-time Emmy winner Bo Burnham takes the director’s chair, creating a dialogue-like atmosphere where both the audience and Carmichael find understanding and connection.
30
Cedric the Entertainer: Taking You Higher (2006)
In “Cedric the Entertainer: Taking You Higher,” released in 2006, Cedric Kyles showcases a wide array of talents. This comedy special, his first on HBO, was filmed in Los Angeles, California, and features a lively ensemble including dancers, musicians, and more, all performing alongside him. The special is framed by a vibrant musical act, and Cedric touches upon topics such as extravagant meals, the War on Terror, and the challenges of fame that come with success. To put it simply, this special offers a diverse range of content.
Comedy, Music, and More
Even if younger audiences might know Cedric the Entertainer best from “The Neighborhood,” rather than “Barbershop” and “The Steve Harvey Show,” his captivating charm and boisterous persona ensure non-stop entertainment. Add to that a sharp fashion sense, and you’ve got an all-out entertainer giving it his best on stage. “Taking You Higher” is a fantastic special that passes quickly, leaving you wanting more.
29
Yvonne Orji: Momma, I Made It (2020)
Instead of the typical scenario where film and TV stars originate from stand-up comedy, Yvonne Orji’s show “Momma, I Made It!” is an intriguing departure from the norm. As a Nigerian-American, Orji shares her distinct viewpoints on life through a series of tales about student loans, Nigerian markets, and romantic woes.
Actress Turned Comedienne
Following her rise to stardom from her debut role in HBO’s “Insecure”, Yvonne Orji was granted a solo stand-up special on the same network in 2020. What makes “Momma, I Made It!” particularly intriguing is its deeply personal nature. In this special, Yvonne Orji blends actual footage of her younger self in Nigeria and a heartfelt appearance by her mother into the act. While it provides context for several of Yvonne’s stories, it also endows this talented comedian with an unexpectedly intimate stage persona.
28
Nikki Glaser: Good Clean Filth (2022)
In a packed venue, Nikki Glaser takes center stage for an unapologetic, uncensored talk on all things taboo. Already a respected figure in the comedy world, she returns with another highly-anticipated special titled “Good Clean Filth“. This production, captured during her tour, discards the niceties of polite conversation. Known for her candid approach, Glaser engages her audience as if they were old friends you’d call when faced with an embarrassing health issue – the kind of friends who don’t flinch at your most awkward moments.
Making Comedy Out of Taboo Subjects
As a movie aficionado, I’ve been captivated by the meteoric rise of this comedienne actress. She burst onto our screens with an impressive debut on shows like “Inside Amy Schumer” and a plethora of Comedy Central productions. This woman fearlessly tackles taboo subjects, doesn’t shy away from discussing her intimate life, and even offers lessons on how to deftly manipulate someone into matrimony. Yet, she masterfully transforms her own humiliating experiences into a powerful platform for women’s empowerment in this exceptional special, making it an essential watch for comedy enthusiasts like myself.
27
Paul F. Tompkins: Driven to Drink (1999)
Prior to lending his voice to Mr. Peanutbutter in BoJack Horseman, Paul F. Tompkins was widely recognized due to his appearances on HBO through shows like Mr. Show with Bob and David and Real Time with Bill Maher. Moreover, he starred in a stand-up special titled Paul F. Tompkins: Driven to Drink in 1999. In this performance, Tompkins humorously discusses topics such as arguments, partying, and the entertainment industry, all while leisurely enjoying a pint of beer.
A Brief But Hilarious Special
As a passionate cinephile, I must say that Tompkins’ HBO Workspace series entry stands out due to its concise runtime – it’s a brisk 30 minutes long, leaving no room for fluff. Instead, it delivers a relentless performance with alcohol consumption as a recurring motif. However, this brevity doesn’t diminish the humor in the slightest. On the contrary, the rapid-fire jokes make it one of the funniest and most entertaining specials to watch quickly, delivering a barrage of laughs in no time.
26
Ricky Velez: Here’s Everything (2021)
A fresh method to market your debut comedy special involves displaying yourself entirely unclothed on the promotional material, which is exactly what Ricky Velez has done as he launched his stand-up career by baring all to his audience. Here, he showcases his ability to connect with people and convey messages through humor. His performance dives deep into his upbringing in Queens with raw honesty, and he delivers his act in a relatable way that will leave you rooting for him by the end.
Velez Brings His Writing to the Stage
Ricky Velez has been diligently honing his craft as a comedy writer, previously working on shows like “The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore,” which spun off from “The Daily Show” when Jon Stewart was still in charge. He also starred as Oscar in “The King of Staten Island” and made appearances in series such as “Crashing,” “Master of None,” and “Single Drunk Female.” While he’s already demonstrated his talent backstage, this time Velez will be center stage all by himself. So don’t miss the chance to see this hilarious performer step out from behind the curtain and bare it all.
25
Dan Soder: Son of a Gary (2019)
Title “Dan Soder: Born of Gary” showcases Soder’s stand-up in New York City, where he humorously explores diverse themes such as his teenage years, drug-detecting canines, and the memory of his father who passed away. Contrary to expectations, Soder handles the heavy topic of his father with an unexpected level of sincere maturity. Fans who appreciated Soder’s numerous radio performances will find delight in this fresh material, as each tale seamlessly connects to the others, forming a cohesive narrative.
Earnest Comedy
Over the years, Dan Soder has been involved in various projects. He’s made regular appearances on Sirius XM radio, sometimes as host and other times as a recurring guest. On top of that, he’s known for his role on Showtime’s Billions. Despite not having a major stand-up special on HBO until 2019, this performance was highly anticipated. All in all, the jokes that Soder serves up are certainly worth your time.
24
Whitmer Thomas: The Golden One (2020)
Instead of spending hours styling their hair to appear disheveled, some men naturally possess a wild, eccentric hairstyle like Whitmer Thomas. With a portfolio brimming with short films and writing accomplishments, this upcoming comedy special will mark his debut in the genre. For the performance, he graced the stage at the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge, a venue that holds personal significance as it was where his mother and her twin sister once performed. Known for his daring, one-of-a-kind approach to comedy, Whitmer frequently discusses his upbringing in Alabama and self-identifies as an aging emo kid.
An Unconventional Stand-up Comedian
Comedian Whitmer Thomas has graced screens in series such as “The Walking Dead”, “Tuca & Bertie”, and “Workaholics”. He’s also the creator of “Stone Quackers” and starred in “The Civil Dead”. Often characterized as “unconventional”, this comedian offers a fresh take on stand-up comedy. If you’re seeking a unique comedic experience, be sure to catch his special. Moreover, his jokes about being a sensitive child tend to resonate deeply with many viewers.
23
Ian Lara: Romantic Comedy (2022)
In a natural and easy-to-understand manner: Ian Lara’s Romantic Comedy, another HBO debut, is aptly named as it’s a forty-minute comedy special. Performing in a more intimate setting, Lara’s act touches on various aspects of our daily lives. Topics ranging from therapy, the pandemic, vacations, and beyond are all subjected to Ian Lara’s unique perspective, delivered with infectious energy. The performance never feels half-hearted or forced, and he doesn’t seem tied to any specific themes. Instead, he approaches everything and anything with a knack for effective humor.
Comedy Found in the World of Dating
Titled “Romantic Comedy“, this performance not only delves into contemporary dating but also underscores the significance of cultivating genuine connections through engaging dialogues. Enhancing this, he skillfully weaves in personal anecdotes to make his points more impactful. Sprinkled among some playful innuendos, you’ll find a delightful dose of intelligence and charm that makes this exceptional comedy performance truly shine.
22
Michelle Wolf: Nice Lady (2017)
In 2017, Michelle Wolf kicked off her HBO career with the show titled “Michelle Wolf: The Amiable Lady“. Needless to say, it’s an excellent representation of her unique comedic approach. Having previously penned jokes for shows like “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah”, Wolf is well-versed in satire and has a knack for incorporating current events into her stand-up performances.
Loaded with Enthusiasm
She openly shares her thoughts on physical looks, varied perspectives of feminism, and her personal image, which makes her genuine and fearless. Every joke by Wolf is delivered with such contagious energy, you’ll likely be left in tears by the end of the special. An exceptional segment featuring a text chat with a gym buddy stands out in a show that’s entirely devoid of filler material.
21
Chris Gethard: Career Suicide (2017)
In this stand-up performance, Chris Gethard, best known for his role as Todd on Broad City and more recently seen playing Jeffery Epstein in the new Bob Odenkirk series Lucky Hank, takes center stage. He’s also made appearances as a guest writer on Saturday Night Live and has graced the comedy-sphere with roles in Parks and Recreation, Inside Amy Schumer, Awkwafina is Nora from Queens, and other notable productions.
Making Light of Dark Subjects
Career Suicide” received favorable reviews from The New Yorker. This production tackles Gethard’s topics of mental health, his battles with alcoholism, and suicidal thoughts throughout his life. However, it does so in a humorous manner, using an example of excessive drinking and a Batman mask. The performance also features a recurring joke about an unusual, questionable therapist. Gethard skillfully combines this raw emotion with humor that will have you both laughing with him and at him.
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2025-04-29 00:38