Kathy Griffin has always been known for her bold and fearless comedic style, and her recent comments showcased just that in her signature humorous take on life in Malibu. Living near celebrities like Gary Busey, Mel Gibson, and Sean Penn, Griffin jokingly quipped about how she might terrorize them at the grocery store. “I’m here in Malibu terrorizing celebrities as much as I can,” she said with a laugh.
Her career has indeed been a roller coaster, from facing serious backlash for a controversial photo in 2017 that depicted a severed head resembling then-President Donald Trump to overcoming personal struggles, including the loss of her mother and battling lung cancer. After taking a break for six years, Griffin returned with her YouTube special “My Life on the PTSD List” and now embarks on her latest tour “New Face, New Tour,” unveiling her journey through comedy while drawing inspiration from her third facelift.
Griffin’s performances promise at least two hours filled with a blend of political commentary and celebrity anecdotes. She has a unique way of gauging her audience based on their reactions to an opening video she plays, allowing her to tailor her material to fit the crowd’s energy.
Her awareness of current events shapes her comedy, as she often opens her shows with social observations rather than jumping directly to jokes. This approach, she insists, allows her to connect with her audience on pressing issues, such as immigration and other social matters. Griffin shared how protests against ICE have made their way into her stand-up performances, referencing lighthearted moments where communities rally against hate.
She converses candidly about her relationships with fellow celebrities, mentioning how she pressured hosts like Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen to take a stand on social issues. Despite facing a wave of negativity on social media, particularly from Trump supporters, Griffin maintains her resilience and commitment to activism, using her voice to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and draw attention to injustices.
Moreover, Griffin’s witty observations extend to the current state of comedy itself. She expressed her wish to see more comedians adopt a political stance, drawing attention to the difference in approaches from various figures in the comedy scene. Her father’s unapologetic spirit inspired her to speak out, showing the personal roots of her outspoken nature.
As Griffin prepares for her upcoming tour, her humor continues to reflect her experiences and the tumultuous state of the world around her. She acknowledges the hardships faced by marginalized communities, offering encouragement to remain vigilant and organized as they navigate current challenges.
Kathy Griffin’s return to the stage embodies her steadfast spirit, blending laughter with important conversations—making her not just a comedian but an advocate wielding humor as a tool for awareness and change in a complicated socio-political landscape.