These Black Comedians Aren’t Hitting Like They Used To

I don’t know if it’s just us, but does it feel like comedians just…aren’t that funny anymore? While some argue audiences have become more sensitive and that the threat of cancel culture is very real, others feel the bigger issue is much simpler: the jokes just aren’t landing. Kevin Hart’s controversial roast became a perfect example of the conversation, with many viewers arguing that some comedians are trying so hard to prove they can still be “edgy” that the humor ends up feeling more out-of-touch—or straight up racist—than genuinely funny.

The tone of comedy has shifted dramatically post-#MeToo and post-2020, and it’s become increasingly clear that not every entertainer has evolved alongside the culture. As content creator Anthony Hassell put it while reacting to the roast: “The point was to do a racist joke. Not just be racist and everyone take it as a joke.” Across social media, many viewers agreed, saying the discomfort outweighed the laughs—proving audiences aren’t afraid to call it out when comedy misses the mark. Just like Hart’s failed roast, we rounded up a list of Black comedians that just don’t hit like they used to.

Before we dive in… know: there’s no love lost toward the folks on this list—only the gut-busting laughter we used to enjoy. But stay with us. In the end, we’re giving flowers to some legends who never lost their spark, and have the track record to prove it.

Chris Rock

While Chris Rock has an undeniable legacy, his recent work left fans split between nostalgia for his classic material and expectations for what comes next. And since the infamous Will Smith smack at the 2022 Academy Awards, public conversation around him has only intensified—often overshadowing the material itself. Furthermore, fans felt his post-slap special, “Chris Rock: Selective Outrage” was straight up boring, not funny, and lacked punch lines. Others argued the special was surprisingly bad.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer has never actually made me laugh, and some fans across social media agree. To make matters worse, Katt Williams publicly accused Ced of stealing one of the best jokes from his “Original Kings of Comedy” set—which he’s since denied—and it didn’t help his case, at all.

Mike Epps

Mike Epps won a place in most folks’ hearts with his hilarious role in the Black film franchise, “Friday.” However, many feel his acting doesn’t translate as well in stand-up, and over time, some viewers say the jokes have started to feel repetitive. After he attempted to demonize Black women for being “bullies”—including Coretta Scott King—content creator Vari and Shati Talk TV was over it. Till this day, he’s struggling to beat the “Mike Epps hates Black women” allegations.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones is best known for her explosive, unfiltered energy and bold delivery, which made her a standout on “Saturday Night Live.” Despite her persona, folks feel her stand-up doesn’t always land the way it should, often leaning into relationship-driven or chaotic anecdotes that don’t always translate into laughs. Most online talk about the comedian has more to do with romance—another missed opportunity for laughs.

Luenell

Now, Luenell is well-respected in the comedy world, but for some viewers, her stand-up just doesn’t land. Her storytelling can be engaging and full of personality, but the punchlines don’t always deliver. And in the end, viewers are left wanting more from the comedy performance.

Tiffany Haddish

Although Tiffany Haddish has more than 20 years in comedy, her breakout came in 2017 with the widely praised film “Girls Trip.” Fans love her personality, but for many, her comedy doesn’t give what it needs to give. Remember when streamer Kai Cenat went viral not laughing at her jokes during the 2025 American Music Awards? Honestly, we get it.

Kountry Wayne

Kountry Wayne has built a massive following off short-form skits that blend relationship humor with everyday drama and exaggeration. Many have pointed storylines that lean on stereotypes and sexism, sparking mixed reactions about how his comedy lands. Wayne’s recent Amazon Prime stand-up special “Nostalgia” was dragged by fans as unfunny, even sparking concerns that some of his material was stolen, according to content creator pryssy.kryssy.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael became a viral talking point after publicly sharing his feelings for Tyler the Creator. And honestly, Tyler’s reaction got more laughs than some of the comedian’s stand-up sets. His jokes tend to lean more introspective than hilarious, leaving audiences thinking deeper…instead of laughing harder. If you need therapy, just say that (most can relate).

Now that we’ve gotten the hard conversations out of the way, it’s only right we give flowers to the comedians still delivering real laughs. Because while some may be coasting off legacy, these legends continue to prove exactly why their talent stands the test of time.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy easily tops the list of comedians who simply never lost their spark. Talk about comedic genius—Murphy has had us doubling over in laughter since he played Mr. Robinson on SNL back in 1981. As a matter of fact, we’ve rounded up our favorite characters from his iconic roles, highlighting his undeniable and unwavering talent throughout the years.

Dave Chappelle

Dave Chappelle is in a league of his own when it comes to comedy, blending sharp storytelling, social commentary, and perfectly timed punchlines that still land decades into his career. Whether on stage or in iconic specials, he consistently proves why he’s considered one of the funniest—and most influential—comedians of all time.

Paul Mooney

The late-great Paul Mooney often read society for filth and made us laugh while doing it. Mooney never held back, and his comedy cut so deep it still resonates today as some of the sharpest social commentary we’ve ever seen on stage. And folks couldn’t get enough.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall has long been a scene-stealer with her natural comedic timing and epic taste in what really makes people laugh. Hall has been such a pleasure to watch on-screen for so many decades; it would be a miss not to give this funny-queen her flowers.

Kev On Stage

No matter the topic—and he covers plenty—Kev On Stage always has us in stitches. From hilarious stories about life and marriage to voting on which dog breeds can “use the N-word,” he consistently turns the most random moments into laugh-out-loud content, and folks thoroughly enjoy it.

Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah has built his reputation on smart, global perspective comedy that blends political insight with sharp observational humor. Whether on stage or behind the desk, his wit, timing, and storytelling consistently prove why he’s a force in today’s comedy. He’s just straight-up funny.