grindr

(via THR)

Though original comedy specials haven’t been released during this time like they used to be, it doesn’t change the fact that streaming services and premium cable networks alike we’re trying their hand at producing some sort of comedy special. Netflix, HBO, Amazon, EPIX, etc. have been plenty busy over the years, which has led to more comedy specials coming from places that you might not expect (Facebook Watch even dipped their toe into this awhile ago with Chris Fleming’s Showpig).

The latest entry comes from a very unlike place, Grindr, in such an unlikely time of the pandemic. Their very first live-stream special, Gag Reflex, features the queer comedy stylings of Joel Kim Booster, Sydnee Washington, Jaye McBride, Zach Zimmerman, and Jay Jurden. Due to the pandemic, it had to be done, as most comedy has been done over the last year, virtually. Still, it does mark a step forward for Grindr as a brand instead of just a gay dating app that usually is relegated in comedy to how promiscuous its users usually are.

Also, kudos to them for picking quite the line-up.

It’s hard to say whether other dating apps will start making similar content or if other brands will enter the comedy space, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see more of such a thing happen as the comedy space is going to be flooded with comedians wanting their time in the spotlight when things get far to the safe side of the pandemic.

In the meantime, you can watch Gag Reflex at your convenience, without Grindr, on YouTube here.