Netflix’s comedy specials serve as a testament to the diverse and ever-evolving world of stand-up comedy, featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. From social commentary to personal anecdotes, each comedic star has always brought a unique flavor to the stage, which ensured that viewers were in for a laughter-filled ride. From the sharp wit of Dave Chappelle to the infectious energy of Kevin Hart, the streaming platform offers a diverse range of comedic styles and perspectives.
This list takes a closer look at a selection of stand-up specials that have left audiences gasping for air, and explores the unique humor and storytelling techniques of each comedian. Take a look at 33 Netlfix original ones below.
1. Equanimity — Dave Chappelle
Chappelle shook up Netflix with Equanimity in 2017. In the special, he showcases his unparalleled ability to blend social commentary with gut-busting humor. I mean who else would say that Rachel Dolezar should have changed her name to Draymond Green? The comedian fearlessly tackles contemporary issues and gives the audience a rollercoaster of emotions while keeping them clutching their stomachs.
2. Great America — Katt Williams
Williams takes the stage in Great America and delivers his signature high-energy performance. Known for his sharp observations and unfiltered comedic style, he brings his unique perspective on politics, race and pop culture to the forefront. Calling Taco Bell out for those chicken wings was something that needed to be done!
3. Don’t Take It Personal — Mike Epps
In Don’t Take It Personal, Mike Epps charms the audience with his laid-back, yet uproarious style. Making the household comical isn’t an easy task, but you can count on Epps to come through every time. His keen observational humor dives into everyday situations and makes the mundane laugh-out-loud funny.
4. My Name is Mo’Nique — Mo’Nique
Though there has been some controversy between Mo’Nique and Netflix, the greatness that My Name is Mo’Nique offers cannot be denied. The award-winning comedian brought her unapologetic and bold comedy to the forefront with a sharp tongue and a fearless attitude. Her unapologetic take on societal norms and personal experiences leaves the audience both entertained and enlightened.
5. Irresponsible — Kevin Hart
Irresponsible sees Hart at his comedic best. He effortlessly connects with the audience through hilarious anecdotes -- most notably of his experience of fatherhood. A funny lesson learned in this special is to always remember to lock the door. If you know, you know. Hart’s energetic stage presence and self-deprecating humor make for a memorable performance.
6. Selective Outrage — Chris Rock
In Selective Outrage, Chris Rock tackles contemporary issues, including the legendary Will Smith slap, with his signature wit and thought-provoking humor. His ability to navigate sensitive topics while keeping the audience engaged showcases his mastery of the stand-up genre.
7. The Dreamer — Dave Chappelle
The Dreamer is another gem in Chappelle’s repertoire, where he weaves together satire and cultural commentary. Chappelle’s ability to make the audience reflect on societal issues while giving an ode to other talented comedians is truly unparalleled. If you want to hear a funny story about him and Jim Carrey, this one is a must-watch.
8. Only One Mike — Mike Epps
This special showcases Epps’ comedic versatility as he effortlessly transitions from impersonations to hilarious life observations. Only a day in Epps’ life could start with taking your kids to a haunted house for Halloween and end with being at a haunted trap house with ex-convicts. From start to finish, the comic keeps the audience hooked with his infectious energy and relatable humor.
9. Cole Hearted — Deon Cole
Deon Cole’s Cole Hearted is a masterclass in observational comedy. His laid-back delivery and sharp observations on modern life make for an engaging, side-splitting performance. His conspiracy theory about Arby’s will make you laugh and think at the same time.
10. How To Act Black — DeRay Davis
DeRay Davis takes on racial stereotypes and societal expectations in How To Act Black. His charismatic stage presence and witty commentary offer a fresh perspective on cultural dynamics. He also gives us a glimpse into his childhood growing up in Chicago, including his cousins who stole things from him and helped him look for them.
11. The Closer — Dave Chappelle
In The Closer, Chappelle delivers a thought-provoking and controversial performance, addressing any and every issue with his signature humor. His ability to push boundaries while making audiences laugh is on full display in this special.
12. Woke-ish — Marlon Wayans
Marlon Wayans brings his dynamic and energetic style to Woke-ish and offers a hilarious take on family and modern culture. In the stand-up set, he says what the world wanted to voice about rappers maturing and the state of Hip Hop — he’s ready to hear some mid-life crisis rhymes from the 50 and up artists. Wayans’ charisma and physical comedy make this special a standout.
13. World War III — Katt Williams
After a pandemic, who better than Williams to help fans navigate through their emotions with some laughter? World War III sees the famed comedian taking on global and societal issues on the comedic stage. His fearless approach to comedy ensures that no topic is off-limits, including Joe Biden’s age.
14. LIVE — Chris Tucker
LIVE by Chris Tucker was a much-anticipated special after the comedian’s hiatus from the big screen. His infectious energy and impeccable timing shine through as he shares hilarious stories, and reflections on his life and career. Tucker’s long-awaited return to the stand-up stage gives fans the insight they needed into his comedic journey.
15. Live from the Ville — Cedric the Entertainer
Cedric the Entertainer brings his signature charm and observational humor to Live from the Ville. With his engaging storytelling, the comic takes the audience on a journey growing up in the country and living through the advancement of technology.
16. Y’All Wanna Hear Something Crazy? — Ms. Pat
In Y’All Wanna Hear Something Crazy?, Ms. Pat delivers raw and unfiltered comedy, sharing her unique perspective on life, family and the world. If you can relate to growing up with an unhinged mother and your siblings in a small house, then you will love everything about Ms. Pat. Her no-holds-barred approach keeps the audience laughing from start to finish.
17. Sticks & Stones — Dave Chappelle
Chappelle’s fearless approach to topics like gun control and school shootings in Sticks & Stones is an art to be studied. This special demonstrates his ability to keep fans on their toes while delivering laughs.
18. Indiana Mike — Mike Epps
Epps takes on the quirks of life in Indiana with his trademark humor in this Netflix special. He shares stories about his upbringing in Indianapolis and how his fame hasn’t fazed the residents at all. Epps’ ability to find the funny in everyday situations makes Indiana Mike a delightful and relatable watch.
19. Contrarian — D.L. Hughley
In Contrarian, D.L. Hughley delivers sharp and incisive commentary on politics, race and family issues. His scathing humor challenges the audience to rethink their perspectives while keeping them entertained. His ability to make his trauma from childhood relatable and hilarious is masterful.
20. Tamborine — Chris Rock
Chris Rock‘s return to stand-up offers a candid and introspective look at relationships, parenting and personal growth. His observational humor and storytelling prowess make this special a unique addition. If you want to know the two rules to make a relationship work, then make sure you add Tamborine to your watch list.
21. Charleen’s Boy — Deon Cole
Charleen’s Boy showcases Cole’s humor as he explores personal anecdotes and societal observations. He provides a fresh and hilarious perspective including the evolving club scene. With this special, Cole makes all of the older ladies realize their disdain for younger women and their Megan knees.
22. Not Normal — Wanda Sykes
Wanda Sykes delivers sharp and insightful commentary on family, life and having Black friends in Not Normal. Her unwavering approach to challenging topics gives this Netflix its own spin from other specials by women in more ways than one.
23. Zero F**ks Given — Kevin Hart
Hart is at his unfiltered best in Zero F**ks Given, in which he shares hilarious insights into his life with his trademark charisma and energetic stage presence right from his living room. While many people argued that this wasn’t his best work, others found it witty and inspirational.
24. Town Business — Luenell
Town Business, a special from the “Chappelle’s Home Team” series, brings Luenell’s no-nonsense, fearless comedy to the stage, offering provacative takes on relationships, aging and modern life. This special is a healthy dose of unfiltered Luenell, which is perfect for a Saturday night on the couch.
25. Time Machine — Leslie Jones
Famed comedian Leslie Jones reflects on her life journey, relationships and the humorous aspects of aging in Time Machine. Her captivating personality and explosive storytelling are on full display. In this joyfully raw and outrageous stand-up special, Jones traces her journey as an adult -- from trying to seduce Prince to fighting sleep apnea.
26. A Woman’s Prayer — Kountry Wayne
Kountry Wayne offers a humorous perspective on relationships and the dynamics between men and women in A Woman’s Prayer. Offering his audience the perspective of a father of 10 and leaving the streets to walk on faith, his unique humor made his Netflix debut a hit.
27. Smart & Classy — Arsenio Hall
Returning to the stand-up scene, Arsenio Hall’s Smart & Classy combines his signature humor with perceptive takes on fame, family and life. He discusses his favorite drug, Coming to America, winning “The Celebrity Apprentice,” stand-up in the current political climate and more.
28. Queen Chandelier — Sommore
Queen Chandelier features Sommore’s trademark regal and unapologetic humor as she tackles relationships and social issues. During a live recording of her sixth comedy special at the Wick Theatre, she offers a novel viewpoint on a variety of subjects, including the COVID-19 quarantine.
29. I’m An Entertainer — Wanda Sykes
In this candid standup special, Sykes opens up about her personal struggles — from parenting Gen Z teenagers to navigating the political landscape as a liberal. With humor and ingenuity, Sykes explores the highs and lows of her career in I’m An Entertainer, showcasing her witty and astute perspective on the entertainment industry.
30. What Now? — Kevin Hart
In this record-breaking and sold-out performance of What Now?, Hart makes history by becoming the first comedian to perform in an at-capacity football stadium. The special was filmed outdoors in front of over 50,000 spectators at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field. As he takes the stage with his larger-than-life personality, Hart shares hilarious anecdotes from his life. What Now? gives audiences a front-row seat to Hart’s comedic genius.
31. Where Was I — Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah shares tales from his recent global travels as he covers everything from the Fox Theatre in Detroit to foreign national anthems and disparate cultural standards. In Where Was I, the former host of “The Daily Show” shares his distinct viewpoint while he wryly traverses cultural divides, thinking back on his upbringing in South Africa and rising to fame as a comedian worldwide.
32. Afraid of the Dark — Trevor Noah
Another special from Noah, Afraid of the Dark addresses a range of international issues with his perceptive and humorous commentary. This show is exceptional because of his skill at fusing personal tales with political satire. In addition to other topics, he discusses international relations, immigration politics and race in the United States.
33. Black Mitzvah — Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish connects with her Jewish heritage and embarks on an illuminating life journey in this special. She considers fame, accepting her so-called inheritance and her notorious New Year’s Eve set while showcasing her daring and boundary-pushing comedic style. In Black Mitzvah, Haddish humorously offers laughs and personal insights into her life. Her contagious energy is evident throughout.