18 Comedy Specials from the ’90s That Would Be Considered Too Offensive Now
Comedy has always reflected its times, pushing boundaries and challenging all existing norms. Playing it safe has never been the forte of comedians. However, what was once considered acceptable humor may now be offensive or inappropriate. In today’s politically correct climate, specific comedy specials from the ’90s would likely spark controversy or outrage. Look at 18 comedy specials from that era that might not fly today.
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Andrew Dice Clay – “Dice Rules” (1991)
The comedy special directed by Jay Dubin and written by Andrew Dice Clay and Lenny Schulman was notorious for its raunchy and politically incorrect humor. His outrageous jokes often relied on misogyny and crude language, which would likely face the same fate as Matt Rife did in the recent scenario.
Eddie Murphy—”Raw” (1987)
This one-hour-and-a-half comedy show focused on two topics: sex and women. Written by Murphy and Keenan Ivory Wayans, the film was initially rated X and had to be re-edited countless times. While technically released in the late ’80s, Murphy’s special epitomized the unfiltered comedy of the era. Murphy’s jokes about gender and sexuality, while hilarious to some at the time, might not produce the same laughter today.
Sam Kinison—”Breaking the Rules” (1987)
The release of this HBO special had to be postponed a week to avoid offending religious viewers during Easter week. This special gave Sam Kinison his legend status, which he proudly retains today. However, the loud, abrasive style and controversial subject matter, combined with his jokes about taboo topics like religion and sex, were shocking then and would likely be even more so now.
Bill Hicks – “Relentless” (1992)
Bill Hicks was a master of dark humor and social commentary. And this particular special, directed by Chris Bould, focused on topics like non-smokers, oral sex, religion, war and peace, drugs, and music. While beloved by many for his biting wit, Hick’s critiques of religion and politics could now be seen as too provocative.
Chris Rock – “Bring the Pain” (1996)
Chris Rock is a comedy legend, but even he might admit that some of his material from “Bring the Pain” wouldn’t fly today. This HBO comedy was only his second special, and his blunt discussions of race and gender could be seen as too controversial in the current cultural climate.
Dennis Leary – “No Cure for Cancer” (1992)
Dennis Leary’s bold, no-holds-barred style of comedy might not sit well with today’s audiences. His cynical take on topics like smoking and masculinity was ironically cool then. Still, the set’s similarities with Bill Hick’s set are what truly made the special controversial, with the accusations of plagiarism following Leary throughout his career.
George Carlin—”Jammin’ in New York” (1992)
Grammy Award winner George Carlin was a comedy icon. He is known for his provocative and irrelevant political commentary and often confrontational humor. While his insights into language and society were way ahead of their time, his dark humor will have difficulty finding the right audience now.
Roseanne Barr – “Live from Trump Castle” (1990)
The “first lady of comedy” Roseanne Barr’s comedy was known for her blue-collar appeal and brash delivery. The special directed and written by her was a wild ride, with nobody getting the jokes. Her crude jokes about body shaming, gender roles, and politics made even George Bush denounce her as ‘disgraceful.’
Robin Williams—”Live on Broadway” (2002)
While technically released in the early 2000s, Robin Williams’ comedy was heavily influenced by the ’90s era. This historic sold-out tour saw the Oscar-winning actor return to standup after 16 years. The special was iconic, but even the most perfect things sometimes cannot stand the test of time.
Adam Sandler—”They’re All Gonna Laugh at You!” (1993)
Adam Sandler’s first comedy album was filled with irreverent humor and off-color jokes. This was a comedy goldmine for adolescents, with endless swearing, talks about genitals, and beating up people at fictional schools. All the middle schoolers ate this setup. However, some things fall as hard as they climb up, as with Sandler’s comedy.
Jim Carrey—”Unnatural Act” (1991)
Jim Carrey’s brand of physical comedy and zany antics defined the ’90s era. He was only a boy when he started in this wild world of comedy. His humor didn’t fit into a proper prototype and couldn’t be defined, but it sure was effective and generally lighthearted. With time, this kind of comedy by Carrey was deemed more fit for his movies and not for the stage.
Richard Pryor – “Live on the Sunset Strip” (1982)
Another comedy legend whose work spanned multiple decades, Richard Pryor’s raw and uncompromising style pushed boundaries in its time. However, some of his provocative jokes about race and addiction might be hard to fare well today.
Jerry Seinfeld – “I’m Telling You for the Last Time” (1998)
Jerry Seinfeld’s observational humor is timeless and will have you rolling with laughter, but some jokes haven’t aged like fine wine. From outdated gender stereotypes to cringy racial humor, Seinfeld’s observational comedy occasionally misses the mark. If this special were a pizza, it might have a few too many toppings from the ’90s that leave a funny taste in your mouth today.
Margaret Cho – “I’m the One That I Want” (2000)
Margaret Cho’s comedy often tackled issues of race, gender, and sexuality with brutal honesty. The special, directed by Lionel Coleman, was groundbreaking in its time. Nothing was wrong with the special per se, but Cho’s lifestyle and addiction are what made it controversial.
Joan Rivers – “What Becomes a Semi-Legend Most?” (1991)
Joan Rivers was the queen of sass. But even her comedy had its cringeworthy moments. In “What Becomes a Semi-Legend Most?” from 1991, Rivers’ jokes about weight and appearance might’ve been more “ouch” than “ha-ha.” Let’s face it, poking fun at people’s bodies isn’t cool, even if it’s wrapped in a snarky punchline. It’s time for Joan to ditch the fat jokes and find some new material that doesn’t leave us feeling so… uncomfortable.
Chris Farley – “SNL Best of Chris Farley” (1998)
Chris Farley’s physical comedy and over-the-top antics were a staple of ’90s comedy. While beloved by many, some of his humor relied on stereotypes and fat-shaming, making you realize how even comic legends can slip up sometimes.
Ellen DeGeneres—”The Beginning” (2000)
This HBO standup special from the early 2000s showcased her trademark wit and charm. Three years after her “come out,” this set was indeed special for her and her fans alike. The special was a classic and loved by many, although not the same could be said for her anymore.
Steve Martin – “Wild and Crazy Guy” (1978)
Steve Martin’s surreal and absurdist humor influenced a generation of comedians. While ahead of its time in many ways, some of his jokes about Native Americans were not exactly funny. And let’s not forget his riff on women and their “jobs” in relationships. Talk about being outdated. So, while Steve’s a comedic genius, let’s agree that some of his material could use a wild and crazy update.
18 Classic Movie Quotes That Would Spark Outrage If Said in Today’s Films
Whether or not you are a movie buff, you’re probably familiar with the famous classic movies that shaped generations. Classic movies often contain iconic lines that have become ingrained in popular culture. However, as we look back, we realize how some of these quotes were downright racist, sexist, or misogynistic and have not aged well with time. Here are 24 classic movie quotes that, if said in today’s films, would likely spark outrage and controversy.
