Matt Rife on How Social Media Launched His Comedy Career

Fox News’ Steve Doocy recently met with viral comedian Matt Rife during his tour to discuss the impact of social media on his career. Rife explained how TikTok transformed his path in the entertainment industry, allowing him to reach audiences that the traditional stand-up route failed to capture.

In a conversation at the Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion, Rife shared his initial aspirations upon moving from Ohio to Los Angeles. He aimed to become a regular performer at iconic comedy venues like the Laugh Factory and the Comedy Store, hoping to be discovered by talent scouts and secure television roles. However, his early success on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out” waned, and he faced a professional low point before TikTok altered his trajectory.

Rife’s journey highlights a significant shift in the comedy landscape. He recounted how, before his social media breakthrough, his income in Los Angeles ranged between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, classifying him as “very low income” by local living standards. Despite initial reluctance, Rife embraced TikTok, which now brings him an estimated net worth between $40 and $50 million, boasting 20.3 million followers.

Rife also discussed his new venture in film. He will star alongside Owen Wilson in “Rolling Loud: The Movie,” scheduled for release on October 2. He expressed admiration for Wilson, acknowledging the influence the actor had on him and the opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional.

Max Bacall, an associate editor for Fox News Digital, covers stories related to media, culture, and comedy.