Comedy fans at South by Southwest in Austin had strong opinions about which comedians are getting too much hype. Fox News talked to attendees who didn’t hold back. Some big names got called out for relying on tired jokes or losing their edge.
Seth Rogen came up as a prime example. Critics said his humor revolves around being high instead of actual wit. One attendee shrugged, “He’s not funny—he’s just ‘I’m high all the time.’” For many, this act feels lazy and repetitive, a sign that Hollywood prioritizes shock over substance.
Kevin Hart also made the list. While he’s been a comedy staple, some argued newer talent deserves the spotlight. “He’s been in the game too long,” said one fan. It’s a reminder that fame doesn’t always equal freshness, and audiences crave voices that reflect today’s values, not yesterday’s trends.
Barstool Sports took heat for drifting from its roots. What started as funny sports highlights now dabbles in pop culture, leaving fans unimpressed. “They’re losing the funny,” one person said. It’s a cautionary tale about brands stretching too thin and forgetting what made them popular in the first place.
Tiffany Haddish’s name popped up, too. Despite her success, some attendees admitted, “I’m not really into her.” Comedy should connect universally, but when jokes fall flat, it raises questions about whether hype outpaces talent.
Cat Williams split the crowd. One fan insisted, “He’s not funny to me,” while others defended him. It highlights how comedy’s push for edginess can alienate as much as entertain. Not every punchline lands, and forced controversy often backfires.
The feedback paints a picture of a comedy scene at a crossroads. Attendees crave authenticity over shock value, and substance over stale gimmicks. As one critic put it, “Used to be about laughs—now it’s just noise.”
Conservatives might see this as part of a larger cultural shift. Comedy has veered into divisive topics instead of uniting audiences. The focus on edgy or political material risks turning humor into a battleground rather than a shared joy.
In the end, the message is clear: audiences want comedians who earn laughs through skill, not just fame or controversy. As the industry evolves, staying true to timeless humor—clean, clever, and relatable—might be the key to winning back fans.
