Two years ago, Matt Rife was a comedian hustling between hostels and budget hotels, pouring his heart into stand-up tours and cameo appearances in shows like ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘Fresh Off the Boat’. Despite his dedication and appearances on MTV’s ‘Wild ’N Out’ and a reboot of ‘TRL’, Rife’s career seemed to be treading water. Then, a TikTok video titled “The Lazy Hero” catapulted him into viral fame, transforming his career overnight.
Rife describes his sudden rise to fame as both a blessing and a curse. The unexpected success led to an overwhelming schedule but also provided him with unprecedented opportunities. He went from struggling to book shows to selling out 260 dates across North America, Europe, and Australia for his ProbleMATTic World Tour, with tickets selling out within 48 hours.
Rife’s journey to comedy stardom wasn’t straightforward. Growing up in a small town in Ohio, his move to Los Angeles was a leap of faith, driven by a passion for comedy and the promise of greater opportunities. The city’s initial allure gave way to a realization of its superficiality, but it also led Rife to find a close-knit community that shared his experiences and values.
Despite his success in stand-up comedy, Rife’s foray into viral content creation was a game-changer. His entry into the digital era of comedy meant adapting his art to new platforms while maintaining his authenticity. His Netflix special, ‘Matt Rife: Natural Selection’, marks a significant milestone in his career, lending a sense of validation that goes beyond social media popularity.
Rife’s comedic style is candid and unapologetic, often delving into personal anecdotes, pop culture, and current events. He has been vocal about his opposition to cancel culture and political correctness, believing that comedy should be a space for open expression as long as it comes from a place of good intention.
His approach to comedy is a response to a broader cultural shift in the industry, where the boundaries of humor are continuously being tested and redefined. Rife views comedy as a means to bring light to sensitive topics, choosing laughter over censorship.
The journey to where Rife stands today in the comedy world reflects his resilience and adaptability. From sleeping in budget accommodations to performing on global stages, his story is a testament to the power of persistence, talent, and the ability to harness the potential of viral fame. As Rife continues to make his mark in the world of comedy, he remains true to his belief in the transformative power of humor and the importance of speaking one’s truth.
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