Ari Shaffir

Who is Ari Shaffir?

Ari Shaffir, born on February 12, 1974, in New York City, is a comic, actor, podcaster, writer, and producer. Beyond stand-up, he is known for hosting and producing the podcast Skeptic Tank and for creating and hosting the television series This Is Not Happening.

Shaffir was born to a Romanian Jewish family; his father is a Holocaust survivor. The family practiced Conservative Judaism until moving to Maryland, where they adopted Orthodox Jewish customs. Ari spent two years studying at a yeshiva in Jerusalem, an experience that deeply influenced his worldview and comedic material.

Shaffir began his comedy career performing at open mics and comedy clubs. He gained recognition for his storytelling abilities, leading to the creation of This Is Not Happening, a series showcasing comedians sharing true stories. He has released several stand-up specials, including Paid Regular (2015), Double Negative (2017), and Jew (2022).

In November 2024, Shaffir signed a two-special deal with Netflix. The first special, Ari Shaffir: America's Sweetheart, is set to premiere globally on January 14, 2025. Additionally, his 2022 special, Jew, will be re-released on the platform.

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Stand-up Specials

America’s Sweetheart
America’s Sweetheart
Jan 14, 2025 | Washington DC
Jew
Jew
Nov 2, 2022 | New York City
Double Negative
Double Negative
Jul 18, 2017 | Austin
The Roast of Big Jay Oakerson
The Roast of Big Jay Oakerson
Jul 15, 2015 | New York City
Paid Regular
Paid Regular
Jan 17, 2015 | Unknown
Comedy Underground with Dave Attell
Comedy Underground with Dave Attell
Apr 12, 2014 | New York City
Passive Aggressive
Passive Aggressive
Feb 5, 2013 | New York City
Down and Dirty with Jim Norton
Down and Dirty with Jim Norton
Oct 3, 2008 | New York City

Podcasts

Skeptic Tank
Skeptic Tank

Comedian Ari Shaffir explores all corners of the human experience, with deep-dive conversations on any subject that piques his curiosity.

You Be Trippin'
You Be Trippin'

A refreshingly unfiltered take on travel podcasts. Forget the boring guides—this is about real people, wild misadventures, and hilariously chaotic travel stories.

Books Written by Comics

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Tremendous: The Life of a Comedy Savage

Joey Diaz

Tremendous: The Life of a Comedy Savage
In Tremendous, Joey Diaz shares his raw, unfiltered journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming one of comedy's most fearless voices. Packed with hilarious stories, heartfelt reflections, and Diaz’s unmistakable grit, this memoir offers an inspiring and wildly entertaining look at the life of a comedy legend.
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Happy Endings

Jim Norton

Happy Endings
A hilarious and irreverent memoir from comedian Jim Norton, offering a mix of self-deprecating humor and shocking stories from his life, touching on his comedic journey and personal struggles.
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This Is Not Fame

Doug Stanhope

This Is Not Fame
In This Is Not Fame, Doug Stanhope delivers a wild, unapologetic glimpse into his life beyond the stage. Filled with chaotic misadventures, cringe-worthy honesty, and sharp humor, this memoir captures the absurdity of fame on the fringes. Perfect for anyone who loves comedy with a heavy dose of anarchy.
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