Ever since Netflix launched, the streaming platform has evolved into a major player in Hollywood. Despite growing competition, Netflix continues the top streaming platform for content and subscribers. Between a collection of original movies and critically acclaimed original series, there's something for everyone. On top of that, Netflix also offers subscribers the ability to rewatch their favorite movies and TV series.

Netflix also has hosted some of the best and funniest comedians over the years, including some that are shrouded in controversy. With the sheer amount available it can be difficult to pick out the best one to watch. This list looks to solve that problem, as we have counted down the best of the best for you to watch. Here are the best comedy specials on Netflix you can watch right now.

Updated Jan. 10th, 2024, by Soniya Hinduja: This collection of comedy specials has been updated with even more entries to keep the discussion fresh and relevant.

23 Vir Das: Landing (2022)

Vir Das: Landing (2022)
Netflix

In his fourth Netflix special, Indian actor and comedian Vir Das finds humor by returning home to India, where his roots are. Deep-diving into his childhood, he reflects on cultural identity, the perils of outrage, and his journey to America as a first-generation immigrant. Through several counters and comparisons, he navigates the two worlds and how absurd the differences between both seem now that he’s wisened up.

Cultural Comedy

Das is known to have a smooth charisma and impeccable wit. He also possesses the rare gift of mining observations and comedy from crossing cultural boundaries. In the special, he makes the minefield of stereotypes and expectations he inherited as a child of Indian heritage known to the audience. Das even shines in his piercing delivery because of how kind his intent is behind all the jokes. Additionally, Vir Das: Landing won the comedian an International Emmy Award for Best Comedy Series, and that’s saying something.

22 Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man and the Pool (2023)

Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man and the Pool (2023) 
Netflix

Barely classified as a stand-up because of how it infuses musical numbers into the span of an hour. Unlike his previous works, this introspective one-man show, Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man and the Pool, touches upon themes of life and death, with the inclusion of medical tests and a specific extremely chlorinated YMCA pool. In the special, Birbiglia manages to deliver his signature brand of charm and humor.

Incredibly Personal Yet Widely Relatable

Few storytellers have the ability to channel both poetry and pathos into good-natured laughs. Mike Birbiglia is one of them. This special, in particular, sees the seasoned comic explore rather unconventional subjects in comedy – like mortality and declining health – and adds vulnerability into life’s painful moments. We’ve somehow all been in the same shoes at some point in life and Birbiglia’s humor serves as a timely reminder of the fact.

21 Nate Bargatze: The Greatest Average American (2021)

Nate Bargatze: The Greatest Average American (2021)
Netflix

Nate Bargatze is a laid-back comedian who kick-started the reemergence of stand-up specials after the pandemic. With his second hour-long Netflix special, Nate Bargatze: The Greatest Average American, the everyman shares musings on stuff we can all relate to – never-ending Zoom calls, the new age of mathematics, as well as hotel breakfast fails.

A Warm Stage-Presence and Familiar Stories

Bringing an inviting presence and down-to-earth humor to the stage, Bargatze finds the best jokes in ordinary things. But he is also willing to enter peak madness in the process of making his audiences laugh. Filmed at the peak of isolation, his special managed to become a soothing potion. Overall, with Bargatze’s wry delivery, comments on the pandemic, and deadpan appearance, his self-deprecating humor is sure to bring joy.

20 Ali Wong: Baby Cobra (2016)

Ali Wong: Baby Cobra (2016)
Netflix

Filmed when she was in her third trimester, Ali Wong’s physicality is just a warm-up to an hour's worth of smashing stereotypes and redefining feminism. In Ali Wong: Baby Cobra, the comedian gets honest and raw about married life, motherhood, the realities of pregnancy, and how terrible it is to be a woman. Unapologetic and sometimes frantically filthy, Wong delivers a memorable set.

Fierce, Feminist, and Fantastic

Baby Cobra was a sensation when it was released on the streaming platform. It marked Wong’s star-making turn not only in stand-up comedy but also in the Hollywood industry as a whole. Uncensored about who it may offend, she addresses topics of family, female empowerment, and motherhood so boldly that it makes honest humor cool again. Overall, the special is genuinely entertaining for fans of comedy.

19 Katherine Ryan: In Trouble (2017)

Katherine Ryan: In Trouble (2017) 
Netflix

Katherine Ryan: In Trouble is the Canadian comedian’s first stand-up special on Netflix. She brings her casual wit and skewers themes of dating and relationships, as well as the realities of romance faced by today’s women. Her little anecdotes about the city she grew up in and, of course, the popularity of Taylor Swift ring particularly true with the audience.

Ryan Makes a Big Impression in a Short Time

Despite having a short-lived career in comedy, Ryan wields enough humor and jabs to not only keep her viewers engaged for sixty minutes but also have them check out her other stand-up specials. This Netflix debut sees her sharpening a killer instinct for tackling both lighter and heavier subjects. She also gifts the audience with that final moment of catharsis by jumping into crowd-pleasing compassion and cements herself as a globally recognized comedian.

18 Hannah Gadsby: Nanette (2018)

Hannah Gadsby: Nanette (2018)
Netflix

In Hannah Gadsby: Nanette, the brilliant Australian comedian takes the stage to deliver some of the most thought-provoking aspects of their emotional journey. The special begins as a traditional stand-up routine, with Gadsby being witty and hilarious, making jokes about their life and experiences. However, as the show progresses, they skillfully transition into a more introspective exploration of their own identity and trauma.

What Makes It Great?

Through the special, Gadsby challenges the conventions of stand-up comedy by channeling her rage toward society, making piercing comments on toxic masculinity, and showcasing their impeccable timing, which keeps the audience engaged throughout. At one point, Gadsby says, “I don’t want to unite you with laughter or anger. I just need my story heard,” which is truly a beautiful and powerful way of summing up what the special is about.

17 Nick Kroll: Little Big Boy (2022)

Nick Kroll: Little Big Boy (2022)
Netflix

Nick Kroll is a charismatic comedian, but with Nick Kroll: Little Big Boy, he actually turns into a child. Kroll combines his signature blend of absurd characters and witty observations, tops it with that self-deprecating humor that comedians are known for, and creates a comedy special that has the audience laughing from start to finish. He talks about pop culture, relationships, and the quirks of everyday life.

Perfect for Fans of Big Mouth

Kroll’s ability to deliver laughs in abundance has been proven on and off screen over and over. So to have a comedy special that is as hilarious as his previous work is simply incredible. He makes jokes about his first heartbreak and makes that signature impersonation of Jason Statham. The special’s positive reception is a testament to Kroll’s brilliance, and you should definitely check it out.

16 Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis (2020)

Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis (2020)
Netflix

A comedy special most of us can relate to, Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis features the young and talented comedian sharing her unique perspective on the obstacles and anxieties of being an adult in the modern world. At 26, Tomlinson is frustrated about being in her twenties, and she translates the feeling in a very refreshing and humorous manner.

The Perils of Young Adulthood Make for Great Material

The comedy special stands out for its ability to capture the very essence of being in your twenties. You’re anxious, uncertain, and insecure most of the time. Tomlinson reminds you that you’re not alone. Her clever punchlines, relatable storytelling, and funny anecdotes really resonate with the audience, making them feel seen and understood. Plus, she references Taylor Swift, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Game of Thrones.

15 Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King (2017)

Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King (2017)
Netflix

You know him from Patriot Act, but Hasan Minhaj has some really cool Netflix comedy specials worth checking out. In Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King, he takes the audience on a captivating journey through his life as a first-generation Indian-American growing up in the United States. He blends comedy and storytelling and shares personal experiences while making comments on identity, family dynamics, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

Charming and Hilarious Stage Presence

Minhaj has an infectious energy, and he lightens up the stage with it. Despite tackling important social and cultural issues, the special does not have a single dull moment. The humor is so subtle and impactful that the social commentary results are both entertaining and enlightening. Moreover, Minhaj’s storytelling skills are exceptional, and he weaves a full circle to create a flawless set.

14 Iliza Shlesinger: Elder Millennial (2018)

Iliza Shlesinger: Elder Millennial (2018)
Netflix
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Another comedian with a bunch of truly great comedy specials on Netflix, she returns to the small screens for her fourth one in Iliza Shlesinger: Elder Millennial. In the special, the comedian delves into the absurdities of being an elder millennial – a term she humorously coined for those caught between the analog and digital eras. Now 35 and engaged, she explores a range of topics including dating, social media, and the pressures of "adulting."

Generational Jokes

Iliza Shlesinger is known particularly for her bold punchlines and rapid-fire delivery. The special showcases that completely. Her light observational humor on millennial life rings true to everyone finding the fast-paced, technology-driven world to be complex. The show garnered widespread praise from critics and fans, especially for capturing the culture of the “elder millennials” with authenticity, grace, and humor.

13 Norm Macdonald: Hitler's Dog, Gossip & Trickery (2017)

Norm Macdonald: Hitler's Dog, Gossip &Trickery (2017)
Netflix

After getting his start on SNL as a host of the Weekend Update, this hilariously deadpan comedian would make a splash on Netflix in 2017's Norm Macdonald: Hitler's Dog, Gossip & Trickery. If the title isn't enough of a hook, there's plenty to like within its hour-long set. Now wise beyond his years, Macdonald reflects on the modern day through stories of casual drug use, Germany's shady history, and simply living life the best way he can.

A Late Comedy Great

Though he tragically passed away in 2021, most will never forget what Norm Macdonald brought to the world of comedy. If you've never seen Norm Macdonald's brand of humor before, it may take a minute or two for it to catch on. But once it does, you're in for an hour of some of his best stand-up material. His deliberate pacing and subdued stage presence always make for a killer punchline.

12 Bill Burr: Paper Tiger (2019)

Bill Burr: Paper Tiger (2019)
Netflix

Everyone's favorite angry stand-up comic is back in this 2019 Netflix special. Whether you know him from his stand-up routines or his numerous roles in shows like Breaking Bad or The Mandalorian, Bill Burr: Paper Tiger is a tremendous showcase of his comedic talents. Being a Burr special, you can expect his signature brand of curse-laden tirades interspersed with some thoughtful moments based on his own experiences.

Incisive and Introspective

Topics discussed in Paper Tiger include Burr's anger issues, Elvis Presley's legacy, and cancel culture, with the last topic being a particularly prominent one during the tail end of the 2010s. It would even draw comparisons to Dave Chappelle's controversial special, Sticks & Stones, which was released less than a month before Paper Tiger. Nonetheless, Burr makes himself stand out with some particularly unique stories, including one involving a rescued pit bull.

11 Adam Sandler: 100% Fresh (2018)

Adam Sandler: 100% Fresh (2018)
Netflix
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Adam Sandler has a sentimental comedy special? Even if you're familiar with this prolific comedian's career, Adam Sandler: 100% Fresh came as a surprise when it debuted in 2018. This special, stitched together from multiple different performances, paints Sandler in a refreshingly new light, with musical performances outlining a series of absurd stories and parodic lyrics. Though they're simple, there's a positive energy found throughout each song that you can't help but smile at.

A Hugely Pleasant Surprise from Sandler

What makes 100% Fresh especially interesting is its musical element. Aside from the various comedy songs throughout, a tearjerker scene lies in wait if you stick around long enough. The finale of the special is a heart-wrenching tribute to the late Chris Farley, closing out an hour's worth of sincere thanks and appreciation for his lowbrow material. There's no pompousness, there's no looking down from an ivory tower, nothing of the sort. Instead, 100% Fresh is Sandler being 100% sincere.

10 Jerry Seinfeld: Jerry Before Seinfeld (2017)

Jerry Seinfeld: Jerry Before Seinfeld (2017)
Netflix

If you've ever seen Seinfeld, you'd know that each episode featured a cold open with stand-up comedy provided by Jerry Seinfeld himself. If you enjoyed these segments, you'll be happy to know that a full-length special, Jerry Seinfeld: Jerry Before Seinfeld, was released on Netflix in 2017. Aside from featuring his material, the film also contains some intriguing tidbits from throughout his career, ranging from unseen written material to numerous videos from his childhood.

An Interesting Look into Seinfeld's Past

Though Jerry Before Seinfeld does reuse some material from his previous work, it's an interesting special for more than just its jokes. The special was filmed where Jerry Seinfeld got his start, the Comic Strip Live comedy club, with an additional montage devoted to Jerry's numerous influences. It's a reflective special, one that examines Jerry's successes in a nostalgic setting.

9 Taylor Tomlinson: Look at You (2022)

Taylor Tomlinson: Look at You (2022)
Netflix

Taylor Tomlinson is a unique comedian in more than a few ways. Her appropriately titled Netflix special, Taylor Tomlinson: Look at You, is one that will likely resonate with a wide audience. Having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Taylor is more than open to discussing her previous mental health struggles, her difficulties in dating, and more through a comedic lens.

An Impeccable Performance of Equally Great Material

Praise given towards Look at You has often cited the special's conversational pacing as its biggest strength. Tomlinson is a natural performer, and her stage presence reflects this innate confidence tremendously. Though the special occasionally dives into some dark territory, Tomlinson handles it with a self-aware sense of grace that translates into boisterous laughter.

8 Wanda Sykes: I'm an Entertainer (2023)

Wanda Sykes: I'm an Entertainer (2023)
Netflix

Wanda Sykes is as iconic a comedian as they come. Her 2023 special, Wanda Sykes: I'm an Entertainer, continues to maintain that legacy of quality jokes. I'm an Entertainer sees Sykes tackling a variety of contemporary topics, ranging from her children becoming teenagers to the widening political divide between the left and right. On top of this, she also opens the special discussing how she handled the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Sykes Gets Political

Though this special dives more heavily into politics compared to some of Sykes' previous specials, it's another stellar collection of jokes carried by her charismatic performance. After overcoming COVID, she's more full of energy than ever before, and it shows in the way she powerfully makes her point while also being genuinely funny and relatable. Her messaging is presented in a hilarious way that you can't help but feel engrossed by.

7 Steve Martin and Martin Short: An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life (2018)

Steve Martin and Martin Short: An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life (2018)
Netflix

2018's Steve Martin and Martin Short: An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life is anything but, combining their respective talents into an hour's worth of show tunes and vaudevillian comedy. Along with this, the two reminisce about their previous successes and failures in the wider world of the entertainment industry.

Old-School in the Best Way

Before they would share the screen in Hulu's Only Murders in the Building, Martin Short and Steve Martin would share the stage in a bombastic comedy special. It's one of the most unique comedy specials on Netflix right now due to its focus on old-school comedy. It's a deliberately feel-good type of special whose skits and jokes have often been considered a warm comfort food. If you're in the right mood, An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life is a comedy special that you can't afford to miss.

6 Phil Wang: Philly Philly Wang Wang (2021)

Phil Wang: Philly Philly Wang Wang (2021)
Netflix
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British-Malaysian comedian Phil Wang has been a staple of the British comedy scene for a long time, but in Phil Wang: Philly Philly Wang Wang, his comedy style is defined and brilliant. Filmed at the London Palladium, the comedy special topics such as race, romance, and his heritage, Wang takes the audience on a journey that is packed full of laughs.

An Exciting Young Voice in Comedy

This comedy special is truly one of the best on Netflix and isn’t afraid to cover personal topics to sacrifice direct relatability. It is perhaps the intimacy that makes this special so brilliant. But beyond that, Wang tries to remain consistently hilarious by throwing around memorable one-liners now and then. The sarcasm and the self-deprecating humor also really help in making this one more amusing.

5 Natalie Palamides: Nate - A One-Man Show (2020)

Natalie Palamides: Nate - A One-Man Show (2020)
Netflix

Natalie Palamides: Nate - A One-Man Show is not a typical stand-up special, mostly because the comedian at the heart of it, Natalie Palamides, is playing the character of Nate, a macho tough guy. The special covers gender, consent, and more, all from the lens of a man who (in real life, anyway) would be likely to have outdated views on the topic.

Topical, Timely, and Tight

That is what makes this special so enjoyable: it makes fun of the exact kind of men who have dominated the stand-up comedy scene for too long and turns it on its head by having a woman play the role. The special does an incredible job of revealing sensitivities about a society that we won't dare reveal otherwise. The entire set around mixed signals and confusion in dating, and of course, consent, packs a lot of feelings and humor. Palamides provides a unique take on stand-up comedy and should be on your watch list.

4 James Acaster: Repertoire (2018)

James Acaster: Repertoire (2018)
Netflix

James Acaster’s Repertoire is a serialized stand-up comedy special by the beloved British comedian. There are four parts to it: "Recognize," "Represent," "Reset," and "Recap," and each one is hilarious. "Recognize" is tied together by a bit about his dream of being an undercover cop, but it also covers topics such as divorce and Acaster’s love of loopholes.

Everyone Loves James Acaster

"Represent" covers religion and jury duty, as Acaster destroys the stage. "Reset" involves the intricacies and complications of British life, before "Recap" ties together the best bits from the previous three parts, and adds a new twist. Repertoire is a brilliant, dry comedy special, and the serialization makes it incredibly unique and interesting. All in all, the entire special has elements that make it stand out yet work exceptionally well together, making it unique and worthy of praise.