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Ali Wong’s bold new chapter: Exploring ‘Single Lady’
A fresh, candid perspective on post-divorce life
Comedian Ali Wong has never shied away from controversy or speaking her mind onstage. With her first three specials rooted in the comedic exploration of topics like sex and marriage, her latest outing, “Single Lady,” takes things a step further. This fourth special, directed by Wong herself, sheds the constraints of a long-term, monogamous marriage and delves into a world of newfound freedom after her divorce two years ago.
Breaking free and diving into the dating scene
Wong recounts her post-divorce experiences with unfiltered enthusiasm. She refers to this period as a “carnal rumspringa,” vividly narrating her escapades with the same graphic detail she used in her earlier specials. From famous directors to younger men who send her thirst trap videos, Wong’s dating anecdotes are both shocking and hilariously entertaining. She highlights the liberation from traditional constraints and the freedom to explore all aspects of modern dating.
Transforming middle-aged divorce stereotypes
More than just a comedy special, “Single Lady” aims to reframe the image of the middle-aged divorced woman. Wong wants to dismantle the stereotype of the “pathetic divorcée” and replace it with a picture of empowerment and triumph. With her personal narrative, Wong sets herself as the leading example of how life after divorce can be fulfilling and exciting. She makes a convincing case, though her circumstances—being a public figure whose divorce made national news—are far from typical.
Highlighting her unique circumstances
The men Wong discusses in “Single Lady” offer a glimpse into her unique dating life. From a 60-year-old who screamed during climax to a Japanese American drummer and a clueless white guy, her stories are as diverse as they are entertaining. Wong’s approach to dating—no longer seeking to trap a man but to enjoy her newfound freedom—resonates with her audience. Her earlier special, Baby Cobra, hinted at this mindset, but “Single Lady” takes it to a new level.
Wealth, independence, and empowerment
One of Wong’s signature motifs is her candid discussion of wealth and its impact on her life. In “Single Lady,” she continues this theme, proudly embracing her financial independence. She insists that her suitors pay for the first date, despite her millionaire status, and enjoys the freedom to fly her partners out to L.A. and live luxuriously. Her approach to dating as a financially independent divorced mom is both aspirational and a stark contrast to the economic realities many women face.
Recurring themes and new insights
Wong’s 2022 special, Don Wong, showcased her unfiltered embrace of success and broke various taboos, from the intricacies of breastfeeding to the realities of being visibly pregnant. In “Single Lady,” Wong maintains this bravado but adds a layer of defiant confidence. She isn’t afraid to mine her dating experiences for comedic material, even if it means being less than gentle with her partners’ feelings.
Slicing through conventions with humor
Wong’s repeated self-identification as “a kind 6” might seem off-key, given her undeniable charisma and looks. This self-deprecation contrasts with her unabashed critique of insecure male comedians and the younger women they date, a topic she tackles with naked condescension. While not exactly sisterly, Wong’s honest and less-than-PC commentary is a true reflection of her thoughts and experiences.
Finding love and closing chapters
Despite the title, “Single Lady” isn’t entirely accurate. Wong has been in a public relationship with Bill Hader since last year, an element she subtly references without naming him. Her requirement for a man who comes “pre-yelled at” speaks to her need for someone who understands the complexities of her life. This relationship brings a neat closure to her wild dating adventures, allowing Wong to frame this chapter as a finished narrative she can integrate into her act.
A breathtaking testimonial
“Single Lady” isn’t just a comedy special; it’s a testament to Wong’s extraordinary talent and the exceptional nature of her post-divorce life. While not every divorcée will have the same experiences, Wong’s story is a riveting and entertaining account of triumph over adversity. For fans and newcomers alike, “Ali Wong: Single Lady,” now streaming on Netflix, offers a bold, unapologetic look at life after divorce.
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