Growing up, I was a huge fan of the radio show Opie and Anthony, and as such I was introduced to a lot of comedians before they were famous. Names like Joe Rogan, Bill Burr, Jim Norton, and Jim Jefferies would be on the show before they were household names….and I loved them. But as time passed, I found myself watching far fewer comedy specials so as part of my new years resolution, I’m fixing that. My goal for 2025 is to watch one comedy special per week and to rank them all.
Similar to my past and current movie ranking, my “2025 Comedy Special Rankings” is a living blog that is updated after I watch something new; I’ll include date, quick review, and would I watch it again. It’s also important to note, this is only includes comedy specials I’m seeing for the first time. This will rule out a lot of the biggest names like Bill Burr, John Mulaney, Chris Rock, and Dave Chappelle, but hopefully it allows to uncover some of the next great comedians.
- Anthony Jeselnik “Bones and All” (2024)
- Date Watched: 2/5/25
- Platform: Netflix
- Quick Review: First time I’ve see one of his full specials, and it was good. Had a very Mitch Hedberg vibe though a lot raunchier No stories or long setups, just quick hitting jokes with punchlines you don’t see coming. .
- Would I Watch Again: I’m sure all watch specific jokes again, especially when they populate on Instagram or Tik Tok (yes I have that), but not sure I’d watch the entire special start to finish again.
- Nate Bargatze “Your Friend” (2024)
- Date Watched: 1/21/25
- Platform: Netflix
- Quick Review: Similar to his past specials, has some solid jokes but can’t say it’s as funny as his previous ones. Just doesn’t have those highs, there weren’t any jokes that you are telling your friends about the next day (spoiler I didn’t tell any of my friends) or sharing bits on Instagram. It’s absolutely funny, but while it’s the first special of the year, I doubt it finishes #1.
- Would I Watch Again: If someone really want to sure, but I’m not suggesting it. Though I might suggest some of his other specials.
