Good One Whitney Cummings's Feminist Huddle
Aug 26, 2019
Whitney Cummings, a stand-up comedian and creator of the Netflix special Can I Touch It?, shares her insights on navigating sensitive topics like #MeToo and feminism in comedy. She discusses her intense writing process, which includes extensive research and feedback from peers. Whitney explores the evolution of feminist language and the importance of distinguishing true empowerment from entitlement. She also emphasizes the need for comedians to adapt their material thoughtfully in today's social media landscape.
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Aftermath Requires Women To Level Up
- Whitney sees the #MeToo aftermath as a moment when women suddenly must "level up" how they speak and act in public.
- She frames that shift as both an opportunity and a confusing adjustment for women used to not being listened to.
Research Before Joking On Sensitive Topics
- Do deep research and wait to address big, sensitive topics until you can give them proper nuance.
- Delay quick takes in favor of deliberate, well-thought stand-up or a whole special.
Shame And Taboo Signal Strong Premises
- Whitney treats embarrassment and taboo as signals that a topic deserves stand-up exploration.
- She believes comedians must seek scarier, more specific territory to remain relevant.