The comedian heralds a shift away from ‘woke’ culture, emphasizing comedy’s enduring spirit

In a candid conversation on the “Stand-Up World Podcast,” Howie Mandel, the renowned comedian and television host, shared his insightful observations on the current state of comedy and its evolving relationship with ‘woke’ culture. Mandel, celebrated for his work on shows like “Deal or No Deal,” took listeners on a journey through the landscape of comedy, highlighting the resilience of comedians who remain true to their craft amidst changing societal norms.

Mandel reminisced about a time when comedy clubs were bastions of free speech, where comedians dared to broach subjects that were otherwise off-limits in conventional settings like the “Tonight Show.” He noted a shift occurred a few years ago when political correctness began to dominate, particularly in college venues once known for their openness. This shift marked the beginning of what many refer to as ‘woke’ culture, a period characterized by heightened sensitivity to potentially offensive material.

However, Mandel is witnessing a significant change. He passionately spoke about a group of comedians, including Shane Gillis, Bert Kreischer, Ari Shaffir, Mark Normand, and others from the Austin comedy scene, who are leading the charge back to the essence of comedy. By refusing to compromise their material to fit the confines of political correctness, these comedians are drawing in larger audiences than ever before, proving there’s a hunger for comedy that doesn’t shy away from controversial topics.

Highlighting the success stories of Kreischer, whose life inspired a 2023 movie; Shaffir, with his hit comedy special on YouTube; and Gillis, who made a remarkable comeback with a “Saturday Night Live” appearance and a Bud Light sponsorship, Mandel underscored the triumph of authenticity in the comedic realm.

Mandel also tackled the contentious issue of cancel culture, arguing that comedy inherently stems from life’s darker moments. He believes that the essence of humour lies in the ability to laugh at the misfortunes and awkward situations that are a part of the human experience. Addressing those who claim to be harmed by comedy, Mandel was unequivocal in his stance, asserting that comedy has never damaged anyone. Instead, he suggests that those who feel aggrieved are merely expressing their discontent rather than experiencing genuine harm.

As Mandel sees it, the resurgence of unfiltered comedy is not just a trend but a necessary recalibration of the comedic landscape. By championing comedians who embrace the “purity” of their art, he believes that the pendulum is swinging back to a place where comedy can exist without fear of retribution from ‘woke’ audiences. This movement, according to Mandel, is a testament to comedy’s enduring power to unite, provoke thought, and, most importantly, entertain.