Gay comedy stand up

From Lynde’s sly asides to Booster’s bold adaptations, it’s evolved into a inclusive force. The show is still very funny, with laughs that are generously offered throughout the special, but I found myself tearing up a few times watching this. 

Stream Nanette on Netflix.

Simon Amstell: Set Free (2019)

This is one that I’m sure you’ll all love.

Their chemistry is off the charts, the references come at warp speed, and the guests range from Broadway divas to Hollywood icons. Much to their surprise, Poehler said yes and even signed on to become the executive producer of the TV series. Their jokes dismantle stereotypes, flip the script on gender norms, and poke fun at the absurdity of prejudice.

You feel seen.

And now, LGBTQ+ comedians aren’t just reshaping punchlines. In an era of ongoing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, gay comedy remains a beacon of resilience, proving that laughter is, indeed, the best form of rebellion.

This exploration delves into the evolution of gay comedy, spotlighting trailblazers, iconic works, and contemporary innovators.

It’s high femme, high drama, and high key iconic. Sykes, the first Black LGBTQ+ woman at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, tackles race, sexuality, and politics in specials like Not Normal. Sandra Bernhard, the “godmother of queer invasion,” used her Richard Pryor Show appearances to weave bisexual edge into mainstream sketches.

The way she delivers her lines makes you laugh even more, all while she has this amazing outfit on. Along with her writing partner Ilana Glazer, the duo parlayed their 20-something experiences of being young, single and broke in New York City into a web series-turned-cable-comedy. In this special, Notaro talks about her life as a gay woman, and how it has changed and shaped to her, as well as how much she loves her wife, while keeping that same dry humor she is known for. 

For someone who is just getting into watching queer comedy, I would whole-heartedly recommend watching Tig Notaro (she's also in Army of the Dead).

Continuing in animation, Jacobson collaborated with Matt Groening on adult-oriented cartoon "Disenchantment" (Netflix 2018- ), the story of an alcoholic fairy princess. Next up? These shows often pop up in bars, black box theaters, and indie venues—and they’re packed with fresh voices, electric energy, and a whole lot of sequins.