Comedy has always been considered a male-dominated realm, but times are changing rapidly. Women are proving themselves to be just as hilarious, if not more so, than their male counterparts in the world of stand-up. In the 21st century, an explosion of comedy specials featuring women has hit the scene. Thanks to platforms like Netflix, discovering and following your favorite female comedians has never been easier. Hulu and Comedy Central also offer a vast array of side-splitting female comedy specials.
Tig Notaro, Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, and many other talented women are gracing the stage and leaving audiences in stitches. Leslie Jones brings her irreverent style to life in her 2009 special “Problem Child,” while Hannah Gadsby’s “Nanette” takes a more introspective approach to comedy. Even established comedians like Kathy Griffin and Joan Rivers have recently released their own uproarious specials. Regardless of your comedic preferences, there’s something out there for everyone.
Have you had the chance to catch any of these female stand-up specials? Which ones tickled your funny bone the most? Share your favorites and let the world know who you believe are the funniest ladies in the game. If you’re tired of men hogging all the limelight, this list is an absolute must-read for you!
1. Sarah Silverman: Jesus Is Magic
Comedian Sarah Silverman takes her trademark, unfiltered humor to the stage in this performance film. It’s actually based on Silverman’s hit Broadway show, which created quite a stir. The movie seamlessly combines stand-up comedy with pre-recorded sketches and even some musical performances. Silverman fearlessly tackles a wide range of topics, including sensitive ones like rape, Sept. 11, and the Holocaust.
Released: 2005
Film (2005)
2. Michelle Wolf: It’s Great to Be Here
The comic tackles topics like dating, sexual harassment, race relations, and adjusting to life in a different country.
Premiered: September 12, 2023
TV Program
3. Iliza Shlesinger: War Paint
Released: 2013
Film (2013)
4. Chelsea Peretti: One of the Greats
Best jokes: #nomakeup, Waking Up A Man
Released: 2014
Film (2014)
5. Joan Rivers: Don’t Start with Me
Best jokes: Taylor Swift, Acting in Commercials, Get the F*ck Out