Tony Hinchcliffe’s wildly popular stand-up comedy podcast, Kill Tony, is making a significant leap to Netflix after over a decade of success. Hosted by Hinchcliffe and Brian Redban, the show has garnered a massive following, with new episodes dropping every Monday night on YouTube. For the uninitiated, Kill Tony offers a unique twist: comedians throw their names into the “Bucket of Destiny,” and if chosen, they get a one-minute stand-up spot. After their performance, they receive live critiques from a panel of seasoned comics and celebrities. The show’s viral appeal has caught the attention of Netflix, which is now set to bring Kill Tony to its platform with a lucrative new deal.
For those unfamiliar with Hinchcliffe, he has been a driving force in the comedy world since Kill Tony first debuted in June 2013. The show’s success is undeniable, with Netflix noting that it was the most-watched comedy show of 2024, amassing an impressive 800 million minutes viewed on a single episode. Beyond his work on Kill Tony, Hinchcliffe has made headlines for his bold humor and controversial roasts. For instance, he recently made waves at Netflix’s The Roast of Tom Brady, where he took jabs at high-profile figures like Kevin Hart, Rob Gronkowski, and even Kim Kardashian. His sharp wit also sparked backlash after a controversial roast at Donald Trump’s October 2024 rally at Madison Square Garden, where he referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean.” While some criticized his remarks, others, including Jon Stewart, defended him, arguing that he was simply doing what he does best—performing a roast.
Hinchcliffe’s journey with Kill Tony has been nothing short of remarkable. The show began in a small room at The Comedy Store with just 12 audience members and minimal viewership. Over the years, it has grown into a global phenomenon, airing over 700 episodes on YouTube and embarking on world tours. In a statement shared with Netflix, Hinchcliffe expressed his excitement about the new deal, saying, “Myself and our entire crew of Austin comedians, peers, and up-and-comers are excited for the opportunity to share our chaotic, insane show with a whole new chunk of the globe.” He reflected on the show’s humble beginnings, marveling at the fact that it has come so far. “It all started in a room at The Comedy Store with 12 audience members and barely anyone watching in 2013,” he said. “After world tours and 700+ Monday releases on YouTube, it seems the persistence has paid off, and now to think that I can pull a name out of a bucket and that person will be performing stand-up and an improvised interview on the largest streaming service in the world is both exciting and frightening.”
Describing Kill Tony as “the most spontaneous and improvised show that is out there,” Hinchcliffe praised Netflix for giving him and his team the creative freedom to keep the show authentic. This commitment to maintaining the show’s raw, unfiltered essence is part of what has endeared Kill Tony to its loyal fanbase. The show’s unpredictable nature, combined with its blend of established comedians and up-and-coming talent, makes it a standout in the world of comedy.
The details of Hinchcliffe’s deal with Netflix are equally exciting for fans. The streaming giant has commissioned three exclusive Kill Tony specials, as well as a separate hour-long stand-up special featuring Hinchcliffe himself. According to Netflix, the specials will feature a mix of established comedians and surprise celebrity guests, blending rapid-fire stand-up sets from aspiring comedians with sharp, often brutal feedback from Hinchcliffe and his panel of seasoned comics. The first of these specials is set to premiere on April 7 and will be filmed at The Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas. While specific details about the specials, including guest lineups, are still under wraps, Netflix has promised to release more information soon.
As Kill Tony makes the transition to Netflix, fans can expect more of the same energy and unpredictability that has made the show a viral sensation. Hinchcliffe’s uninhibited humor, combined with the show’s unique format, is sure to resonate with Netflix’s vast audience. With its move to the streaming platform, Kill Tony is poised to reach new heights, introducing its chaotic, unapologetic brand of comedy to a whole new global audience. For Hinchcliffe and his team, this deal marks a major milestone in their journey, proving that persistence and a willingness to take risks can pay off in the ever-evolving world of comedy. As the first special approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for Kill Tony and its fearless host.
