Netflix sparks backlash after announcing controversial show as fans brand it 'atrocious'
Netflix has ignited a storm of controversy among its subscribers with the announcement that Joe Rogan is set to release a comedy special on the platform, leading some disgruntled fans to label the decision 'disgusting'.
The streaming behemoth has ruffled feathers with news of a new special from a divisive comedic figure.
Joe Rogan's upcoming live stand-up comedy special, Burn The Boats, is scheduled to hit Netflix on August 3, but the trailer, which dropped on July 10, has already provoked a wave of criticism online.
On X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, users didn't hold back their opinions. One user expressed confusion over Rogan's comedic appeal: "Joe Rogan has never been funny. I get why his podcast is successful but the comedy career has never made sense to me," while another was blunt in their assessment: "Man's stand up is atrocious."
A third person branded the show "disgusting" while another claimed that Netflix is “wasting money” supporting Joe. Somebody else simply said: “I am not at all surprised by Netflix continuing to give the absolutely worst people a platform."
The trailer teases the show as Joe's first comedy special in six years. The 40-second clip features black-and-white shots of Joe, 56, and he can be heard talking about the upcoming live show.
“Don’t get mad at me, you know why you came here,” Rogan says in the trailer. He adds that there will be “some ride-home arguments in the air”, but they are "jokes, folks. Just jokes”. A tagline reading 'There's no coming back from this' is also shown towards the end of the clip.
Joe shared the news on Instagram, telling fans: "Saturday, August 3rd I’m doing a live comedy special on @netflix at 10pm east coast time. I’m very pumped for this and I hope you enjoy it."
Joe is best known for hosting podcast The Joe Rogan Experience. The podcast discusses current affairs, politics, philosophy and other topics and regularly features celebrity guests.
In recent years, Joe has proven to be hugely controversial due to his opinions. He has made comments regarding Covid-19 vaccines, transgender athletes and remarks that have been considered as antisemitic.
In 2022, Joe caused controversy after voicing anti-vax views. Musicians such as Neil Young and Joni Mitchell pulled their songs from Spotify in protest of the app hosting Joe's podcast after the comments were made.
Joe, who is also known for hosting the show Fear Factor from 2001-2006, also advocates for gun rights in the US and has been accused of having guests on his podcast who spread misinformation.
