Comedian Matt Rife, known for his TikTok fame, is under fire for cracking jokes about domestic violence in his recent Netflix Special, “Natural Selection.”
The controversy has stirred criticism, particularly considering that a significant portion of Rife’s 18.2 million TikTok followers are believed to be women who played a pivotal role in catapulting him to fame.In one segment of the special, Rife recounted an incident at a restaurant where he observed a female server with a black eye. The controversial punchline followed, suggesting that she should be in the kitchen and insinuating a connection between her cooking skills and the black eye. The comments have been widely condemned as perpetuating “sexist bias” and “misogyny.”The backlash intensified as excerpts from the special went viral on social media platforms, including TikTok, where Rife initially gained popularity. Critics accused him of “punching down” and abandoning the very audience that contributed to his success.
Social Media Backlash and Apology Controversy:
On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), users expressed their disappointment, with some stating that Rife turned his back on his followers the moment he landed a Netflix comedy special. Others criticized him for building his platform on a female audience and then making jokes that perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
In response to the backlash, Rife posted an Instagram story on November 20, directing users to an “official apology” link. However, the link led to a website for “special needs helmets,” sparking additional criticism and accusations of ableism against the comedian.
Defending the Special:
In a recent interview with Variety Magazine, Rife disputed claims that his comedy was exclusively catering to a female fan base. While acknowledging his initial TikTok popularity among women, he argued that “Natural Selection” was designed for a broader audience, including men. However, the controversy surrounding his domestic violence jokes has sparked a reassessment of Rife’s approach to comedy and the impact of his words on his diverse audience.
As the debate continues, Rife’s Netflix Special has become a focal point in discussions about responsible comedy and the consequences of using humor that perpetuates harmful stereotypes. The incident serves as a reminder of the power comedians wield and the importance of considering the potential impact of their jokes on various audiences.