Netflix has confirmed that Chris Rock will debut a comedy special live on the streaming service sometime in early 2023. It will be the streaming platform's first-ever livestream.
According to the company's release, the yet-unnamed special live will air as part of its first-ever live, global streaming event, according to Vulture.
Chris Rock is the First Comedian to Air a Livestream Special on Netflix
The upcoming comedy special is Rock's first stand-up-comedy special since his 2018's "Tamborine." And true to his legacy as an excellent comedian, it is going to be one of its kind as he will be the first comedian to air a livestream special on the platform.
As of writing, there are no details about the comedy special yet. Rock appeared at the streaming platform's "Netflix Is a Joke" comedy festival earlier in 2022.
Robbie Praw, the vice president of stand-up and comedy formats of Netflix, noted that Rock is "one of the most iconic and important comedic voices of our generation."
Praw said that they are thrilled that everyone will be able to be a part of Netflix history and experience a live Chris Rock comedy event.
Likewise, he said that the upcoming event will be an unforgettable moment for them and the viewers alike. Moreover, Netflix said they are honored that "Chris is carrying this torch."
This will be the seventh stand up special of Rock overall, including "Tamborine." The comedian previously released five specials with HBO, which include "Bigger & Blacker" and "Bring the Pain."
Currently, Rock is doing his Ego Death world tour. Through the remainder of the year, he's going to have shows in California, Texas, and Washington. A number of those shows are co-headlined with Dave Chappelle.
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Livestreaming Could Help Netflix Provide Diversified Content
Rock's upcoming comedy special will be the first by significant test of live streaming on Netflix. This could potentially open doors for its other programs to be given a live treatment.
Previously, it has been suggested that the streaming platform could possibly integrate live streaming into some of its unscripted content. One strategy that can be explored is to give fans a chance to vote live on shows.
Netflix's attempt at livestreaming expansion isn't surprising anymore as some of its main rivals have are engaged in some form of livestreaming, as per Engadget.
For instance, in February, Disney+ livestreamed Oscar nominations. This fall, the streaming platform will air live episodes of Dancing With the Stars.
Other streaming platforms focus heavily on sports, such as Amazon Prime Video that broadcasts weekly NFL matches.
Another is Apple TV+ that broadcasts Friday Night Baseball. These new offerings from the streaming services give viewers a reason to either join a service or stay subscribed.
What is remarkable about Netflix is it is not afraid to experiment with different formats beyond its linear movies and TV shows.
Aside from movies and series, it has offered trivia shows to its subscribers as well as other interactive programming. It is also diving further into mobile games.
Livestreaming could help the streaming platform provide its audience diversified content to help avoid subscriber losses.
Related Article: Netflix is Exploring Livestreaming Option for Stand-up Specials and Other Live Content
