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Joe Rogan’s ‘Burn the Boats’: A deep dive into controversy and comedy
A new chapter in Rogan’s comedy journey
Joe Rogan, the comedian and podcaster known for his unfiltered opinions, has released his latest comedy special, Burn the Boats, on Netflix. This special, which premiered live on Saturday night, delves into some of the most contentious topics Rogan has discussed on his podcast, but with a self-deprecating twist.
“That might be misinformation,” Rogan quips early in the special. “Don’t say you heard it from me, because I am known for that shit.”
COVID-19 and vaccine skepticism
Rogan’s skepticism about COVID-19 vaccines is a recurring theme in Burn the Boats. He reflects on the pandemic’s impact and how it has altered his views on vaccines.
“COVID was just so strange,” he says. “And we lost a lot of people during COVID, and most of them are still alive. There’s a lot of people that I don’t fuck with anymore. Before COVID, I would have told you that vaccines are the most important invention in human history. After COVID, I’m like, ‘I don’t think we went to the moon. I think Michelle Obama’s got a dick. I think Pizzagate is real. I think there’s direct energy weapons in Antarctica.’ I’m just kidding — I don’t think Michelle Obama’s got a dick, but I believe all of that other shit.”
Rogan also addresses the backlash he has received for his COVID discussions on his podcast.
“If you’re getting your vaccine information from me, is that really my fault?”
Trans acceptance and cultural shifts
Following in the footsteps of comedians like Dave Chappelle and Ricky Gervais, Rogan tackles the topic of trans acceptance in American culture. He begins with jokes about “pregnant men” and expands to his broader viewpoint on the rapid cultural changes.
“I’m open-minded,” he says. “I just want to know what happened. It’s almost like a pervert wizard waved a magic spell on the whole world. ‘With a wave of this wand, you can walk into the women’s locker room with a hard cock, and anybody who complains is a Nazi, Abracadabra!’ And it just works! And everyone accepts this is the new reality, and it’s fucking weird.”
Reflections on gay men
Rogan also shares his thoughts on gay men, using humor to express his perspective.
“I don’t hate anybody. I love everyone. And I love gay men. But I think about gay men the same way I think about mountain lions: I’m happy they’re real, but I don’t want to be surrounded by them. They’re a bunch of dudes who fuck dudes. I don’t like my chances, OK? They’re not unicorns — they’re just men who fuck men. And every man who’s ever lived is a shifty cum salesman, OK? 100%. Especially the ones who say they’re not.”
The return to the stage
Burn the Boats was recorded live at the Majestic Theatre in San Antonio, marking Rogan’s first comedy special in six years since 2018’s Strange Times. This is his third consecutive special to debut on Netflix, following Triggered in 2016.
Netflix’s comedy landscape
Netflix has been investing heavily in live comedy events over the past year and a half. Notable specials include Chris Rock’s Selective Outrage in 2023, John Mulaney’s talk show Everybody’s in LA, and The Roast of Tom Brady in May.
Personal reflections
As a fan of stand-up comedy, I find Rogan’s approach both provocative and thought-provoking. His ability to blend humor with controversial topics challenges the audience to reflect on their own beliefs and the current cultural climate. While some may find his jokes offensive, others may appreciate his candidness and willingness to tackle difficult subjects head-on.
For those interested in exploring Rogan’s latest special, you can watch the trailer and find more information on Burn the Boats.
In the ever-evolving landscape of comedy, Joe Rogan continues to push boundaries and spark conversations. Whether you agree with his viewpoints or not, Burn the Boats is a testament to his unique voice in the world of stand-up comedy.
