This selection is a guide to modern standup for those who only remember George Carlin’s old monologues.
Louis C.K.
Who he is. One of the most important comedians of our time, who in the 90’s interrupted by passable performances on late night shows and made low-budget movies. How and what he jokes about. Only after forty years Louis finally found his legendary role – irritable cynic in a midlife crisis. Since the late noughties, C.K. has developed this image also as a TV dramatist: his series “Louie” and “Horace and Pete” are now the gold standard of conversational sedcom – comedy with a dash of drama. After allegations of harassment in 2017, C.K.’s career seemed to be over. However, the disgraced comedian returned to the big stage three years later and once again unapologetically mocked everything in the world, but this time not without justifiable reflection.
Dave Chappelle
Who he is. The most established African-American comedian rose to fame in the noughties with a groundbreaking sketch show named after himself that made sharp jokes about racism, politics, and celebrity. Dave then retired from comedy for nearly a decade, which only solidified his cult status. Chappelle returned to the stage three years ago: two of the comedian’s rushes, in which he takes a sharp swipe at topical issues, broke viewing records among stand-ups on Netflix. How and what he jokes about. Chappelle is the kind of comedian who always walks the edge when discussing current topics and often voices an unpopular opinion. His most recent Sticks & Stones gig, with its jokes about LGBTQ+ people and Louis C.K.’s excuses, was arguably the most scandalous comedy show of recent years.
Bill Burr
Who is. Burr is one of the few old-school comedians for whom no joke topic is too sensitive. At every show, he shares his usual smirk and every time he gets a hoot in return, which is immediately drowned out by applause. How and what he jokes about. Bill Burr’s calling card – provocative theses like “motherhood is not difficult”, “it’s okay to laugh at fat people”, “Steve Jobs was not a genius” or “the planet could use another epidemic”. If it ended there, the comedian would be hated by the whole world by now. But Burr has the wit and armor-piercing charisma to explain his point of view and make everyone laugh.
Ricky Gervais
Who he is. Gervais started making people laugh from the stage already as a big star, which is rare for standup. Before picking up a microphone, the comedian had time to play in a synth-pop band, launch a successful podcast, and direct the TV series “The Office” starring himself. How and what he jokes about. In standup, Gervais continued to play off his “Office” alter ego David Brent, an arrogant ulcer who doesn’t miss an opportunity to nitpick anyone. Most of all from Gervais, perhaps, got to the movie stars. Comedian five times invited to lead the award “Golden Globe”, where he gladly “fried” sitting in the hall of actors and other celebrities.