Netflix will make history again with its first live-streaming event, starring comedian Chris Rock, after launching an ad-supported tier. The business said Thursday that Rock’s live comedy show will broadcast in early 2023.
Photo Credit: Netflix
Netflix’s vice president of Stand-up and Comedy Formats called Rock “an iconic and significant comedic voice” “We’re happy the world will get to see a live Chris Rock comedy show on Netflix. This will be an incredible moment, and we’re very proud of Chris.”
Netflix announced live streaming in May. Netflix will focus on unscripted content, competitive shows, reunion specials, live comedy, and a “Netflix is a Joke” festival.
Rock will certainly attract thousands or millions of viewers. This is his third stand-up special and second for Netflix after “Tamborine” in 2018. He attended 2022’s “Netflix is a Joke” festival.
Many will watch Rock’s live comedy show for Will Smith gossip. Rock hasn’t discussed the Oscars slap with Smith. In London, the comedian said, “People expect me to talk about bull****, but I won’t.” Deadline reported he’ll watch it on Netflix.
Livestreaming is difficult and less reliable than VOD. Several months ago, live sports streaming applications crashed. If Netflix’s initial test with Chris Rock goes well, dozens of films might go live.
Netflix will compete with live TV streaming services. “Dancing with the Stars” Season 31 was Disney+’s first live TV show. There were reports of Disney+ app crashes, delays, and lags, but none were serious.
Netflix should invest in live sports now that it has commercials and live streaming. The Wall Street Journal claimed this week that Netflix is “open” to live sports.
