Comedy’s been my go-to for years—whether I need a laugh after a rough day or I’m just bingeing for the sake of it. But with so many specials flooding the streaming platforms, picking the right one is no easy feat. Some are side-splitting, some are thought-provoking, and some… well, some I can barely remember after the credits roll (I’m looking at you, 2022 stand-up trend). So, after lots of scrolling and even more laughter, I’ve rounded up The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now. Trust me, I’ve seen ‘em all. And yes, I’m picky.

1. Dave Chappelle: “Sticks & Stones”

Let’s talk Dave Chappelle for a second. Sticks & Stones—released in 2019—is like the comedy equivalent of a punch in the gut. In the best way possible. Chappelle doesn’t just crack jokes; he shatters norms and expectations, all while making you feel like you just had an epiphany (and a belly laugh at the same time). It’s a hard-hitting commentary on everything from cancel culture to personal freedom. This isn’t your average comedy special, folks.

Why Watch This One?

• Unfiltered and Bold: Chappelle says whatever he wants, and I love him for it. He’s got a knack for navigating controversial topics like it’s no big deal.
• You’ll Think After You Laugh: His humor is laced with razor-sharp social commentary. Sure, you’ll laugh, but you might also pause and think about the world for a minute.
• Comedy with a Purpose: It’s not just about jokes—it’s about pushing boundaries. If you’ve been in a comedy slump, this special will snap you right out of it.

When it comes to The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now, Chappelle’s “Sticks & Stones” is a must-see. Like, drop everything and watch it kind of must-see.

2. Hannah Gadsby: “Nanette”

Okay, buckle up. If you’ve never seen Nanette, prepare yourself. This isn’t your typical stand-up. Gadsby’s 2018 special is equal parts hilarious and heartbreakingly raw. She starts off with a few funny bits and then… BAM! You realize this is more of a personal memoir than just a comedy special. And for me? It was like a punch to the gut in the best possible way. Nanette made me laugh and then question why I was laughing—like, seriously, should I be laughing at this?

Key Moments in “Nanette”

• It’s Not Just Comedy: The first few jokes will have you chuckling. But by the end, you might feel like you’ve been hit with a thousand feelings. It’s heavy, and yet… you can’t look away.
• A Masterclass in Vulnerability: She opens up about trauma, sexuality, and gender in ways that are both educational and painfully relatable.
• Laughing to Survive: If you’ve ever used humor as a coping mechanism, you’ll get it. You’ll really get it.

If you want something that makes you think, laugh, and maybe cry just a little bit, The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now definitely includes Gadsby’s “Nanette.”

3. John Mulaney: “Kid Gorgeous”

Listen, I’m not sure if Mulaney’s Kid Gorgeous will make you laugh as hard as his “Saturday Night Live” sketches, but I can tell you this: you’ll at least leave the special thinking, “How did he just make me laugh that hard about nothing?” Mulaney is a comedic genius. His stories are simple, yet his delivery is everything.

Why You Need to Watch This One

• Relatable AF: If you’ve ever been embarrassed by something small and then ruminated on it for way too long, Mulaney’s your guy.
• Clean and Classy: No swearing for the sake of swearing here. This special is like a comfy sweater: clean, cozy, and perfectly crafted.
• A Really Good Vibe: Mulaney’s stage presence is magnetic. You just wanna be his friend by the end of it.

Kid Gorgeous is hands-down one of The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now, whether you’ve seen him on TV or not. And I dare you not to laugh at his impressions of childhood authority figures. You won’t.

4. Ali Wong: “Baby Cobra”

I’ve got a soft spot for Ali Wong. Maybe it’s because I once tried to replicate her “pregnancy glow” with a green juice cleanse (don’t ask). Anyway, her 2016 special Baby Cobra was groundbreaking. Who else was brave enough to talk about the unglamorous reality of pregnancy and motherhood while pregnant? Ali, that’s who.

What Makes This Special Stand Out

• No Filter: Wong talks about pregnancy, relationships, and gender roles like nobody else. It’s refreshing and wicked funny.
• High-Energy Delivery: The woman does not stop. You’re in for a ride from start to finish.
• Real Talk: She doesn’t sugarcoat what motherhood is really like. Spoiler: it’s not all rainbows and stroller rides.

If you want The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now that will make you laugh about things you didn’t think were funny, check out Baby Cobra. You’ll never look at pregnancy the same way again.

5. Chris Rock: “Tamborine”

Y’all, Chris Rock in Tamborine—I don’t even know where to begin. The man is a legend. His 2018 Netflix special was a shift in his comedic style, getting deeper into his personal life than before. He talks about his divorce, fatherhood, and a whole bunch of other heavy stuff that honestly makes you go, “Oh, I’m not the only one who has these thoughts?”

Why You Should Watch It

• Real Talk: Rock opens up about his divorce and what it means to be a father. It’s like he invited you to his therapy session, and you’re just sitting there laughing along.
• Classic Rock Commentary: His takes on race, society, and relationships are as sharp as ever. He doesn’t shy away from tough topics, and you’ll respect him for it.
• It’s Introspective: I mean, it’s a Rock special, but it’s a lot more personal than his earlier ones.

Chris Rock nails the mix of funny and thought-provoking in Tamborine. If you’re in the mood for something that’s real and hilarious, this is absolutely one of The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now.

6. Tiffany Haddish: “Black Mitzvah”

Tiffany Haddish. Black Mitzvah. Hilarious. Period. She’s got that rare ability to make you laugh while also making you root for her. Like, I swear I’m cheering her on as she tells her jokes, even though I’m sitting on my couch in sweatpants eating stale chips.

Why You Can’t Miss It

• Her Rise to Fame: Haddish talks about what it was like growing up and her rise in Hollywood with such energy and humor that it’s infectious.
• Relatable and Real: She talks about being a woman of color, relationships, and basically anything that’s ever made her cry (while cracking you up at the same time).
• Unstoppable Energy: It’s like she’s been caffeinated for 48 hours straight—and I love it.

If you haven’t seen Black Mitzvah yet, you’re missing out. This is one of The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now if you need a boost of positivity—and some wicked funny punchlines.

Wrapping It Up…

Alright, so after all these laughs and recommendations, I think you’ve got a solid list to dive into. Whether you want to feel inspired, think deeply, or just belly laugh at the absurdity of it all, there’s something here for you. Because, hey, The Best Comedy Specials You Can Watch Right Now aren’t just about jokes—they’re about what they make you feel. Go ahead, grab the popcorn. It’s comedy time.