A Very Rare Thing
In an article from the New York Times today:
“It’s a very rare thing, where you answer to no one at all as a comedian,” said Aziz Ansari
The newest movement in entertainment is upon us. Standup comedians are finally taking full control of how their material is consumed outside of live performances. The beginning stages of this has comedians self-releasing their standup specials online, the first being Louis C.K. back in December, and continuing earlier today as Aziz Ansari self-released his newest standup special in the same way.
Allowing comedians to stay in charge of their product has hugely positive effects in the comedy ecosystem. See Louis C.K.’s comments:
“I don’t have to go, ‘Here’s this product,’ to whatever company,” Louis C. K. said, “and then cringe and shrug and apologize to my fans for whatever words are being removed, whatever ads they’re having to watch, whatever marketing is being lobbed on.”
It’s also worth noting that Louis C.K. has an unprecedented deal with FX which provides him full control over his superb television show Louie, which is currently taping its third season.
These comedians have proven that great entertainment can be made on a budget and without the interference of media executives. More importantly, however, is that consumers purchase and support these shows with incredible enthusiasm. My gut tells me that this trend will continue onward.