Netflix Drops “The Underdog” — A Deep Dive into Matt Rife’s Rise
Netflix has just released The Underdog, a highly anticipated documentary chronicling the unconventional ascent of comedian Matt Rife. The film traces his journey from small-town Ohio open-mic nights to global recognition fueled by TikTok virality and Netflix specials. In this article, we explore Rife’s story, what’s covered in the documentary, and why he’s emerged as one of comedy’s most polarizing figures.
🎤 Early Beginnings: Ohio’s Teen Stand-Up Sensation
Matt Rife was born in Columbus, Ohio, on September 10, 1995, and raised in North Lewisburg. He hit the stage at age 15, fueled by dare and ambition. Though later described by The New York Times in 2022 as “just another struggling road comedian,” his persistence anchored his rise .
Wild ‘n Out & Early TV Roles
In 2015, Rife became part of Wild ’n Out, MTV’s improv comedy show, making his first TV appearances. He also appeared on TRL, Bring the Funny, and acted in shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Fresh Off the Boat . Though these placements hinted at promise, real momentum still lay ahead.
TikTok Breakthrough & Solo Specials
With over 25 million followers across platforms, Rife’s humor struck a chord online . His viral clip “The Lazy Hero” amassed over 40 million views and rescued him from burnout, according to Axios .
Capitalizing on his digital fame, he self-produced specials—Only Fans (2021), Matthew Steven Rife (2023), and Walking Red Flag (2023). Netflix picked up two of these: Natural Selection and Lucid, showcasing his evolving storytelling and daring crowd-work .
Netflix Specials: Mixed Reception
Natural Selection (2023) earned praise for its boldness and polished delivery, though critics noted its tone felt “smug, complacent, puerile” . Lucid (2024), Netflix’s first crowd-work special, pulled raw audience interactions in Charlotte, but critics argued laughs were audience-driven more than Rife’s wit .
Reddit reactions underscore the divide:
“It was so rehearsed… I literally didn’t laugh one time the entire special.”
“It was THE WORST show I’ve watched… he ABSO-FKNG-LUTELY DOES NOT LOOK THE SAME WAY IRL!!!”
“The Underdog” Documentary: What to Expect
The Underdog explores:
- Origins & Open-Mic Days – From small Ohio clubs to MTV screens.
- The Social Media Surge – TikTok’s role in his resurgence.
- Creative Vision & Crowd Work – Insight into how Rife crafts his specials.
- Success Amid Criticism – Navigating backlash for jokes viewed as misogynistic or tone-deaf; a memoir was also criticized as “an arrogant cash grab” with immature writing .
- Personal Growth – Tackling rumors like his stints as a paranormal investigator and his self-perception amid skyrocketing fame .
Why “Underdog” Resonates
Relatability: A small-town kid who nearly gave up, only to explode through social media.
Generational Relevance: An image-conscious, crowd-work-first comic from Gen Z.
A Polarizing Mirror: Sparks debate on where comedy lands in today’s landscape—crowd humor versus crafted narrative.
Final Take
The Underdog offers a stream-worthy, cinematic look at Matt Rife’s trajectory—revealing his self-awareness, creative ambition, and the dual edges of fame. For fans, it’s a celebration; for skeptics, an invitation to challenge assumptions. But whether you love or loathe his comedy, the documentary captures an undeniable cultural moment: the power of digital platforms to redefine stardom.
✅ Should You Watch It?
Yes, if you’re interested in modern comedic careers shaped by TikTok, social media, and crowd-work innovation.
Absolutely, if you’ve seen his Netflix specials or caught one of his viral clips and are curious about his behind-the-scenes journey.
Maybe skip, if you’re wary of a candid look at internet-driven fame and the messy debates that often follow.
Netflix’s The Underdog drops now—stream it to see if Rife is a trailblazing underdog or just another influencer with a mic.
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