Ben Stiller believes that comedy should never stop challenging the status quo, even at a time when speaking freely has become more complicated.
In a recent interview with Radio Timesthe to cut The director and longtime comedian said humor faces new obstacles in today’s political and cultural environment.
“We live in a world where it’s more difficult to take risks with comedy,” Stiller said.
“You see this front and center in our country. But I think it’s important that comedians keep doing what they’re doing, speaking truth to power, and being free to say what they want. That’s the most important thing.”
His comments come as the entertainment industry continues to debate the limits of freedom of expression in comedy.
The topic gained new attention after the ABC temporarily pulled out Jimmy Kimmel Live! It was taken off the air on September 17, following host Jimmy Kimmel’s on-air comments about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The show returned to its regular schedule on September 22.
Stiller also pointed to social media as another big challenge for modern comedy, expressing concern that the fast-paced nature of platforms like TikTok and Instagram has made it difficult for audiences to stay engaged.
“You have things that reach large audiences very quickly,” he said. “I think we’ve underestimated it a little bit. I feel lucky to have grown up in the analog world.”
As one of Hollywood’s most recognized comedic voices, Stiller has witnessed how humor has evolved over the decades.
The actor known for his signature hits like Get to know the parents, Zoolander, Dodgeball: The True Underdog Story, announcerand Tropical thunderHe built his career on sharp intelligence and bold creative choices.
Now he urges today’s comedians to keep doing the same, even when the world makes it hard to laugh.