Michelle Buteau Talks Chappelle, Self-Value, and Historic Moments on Netflix

Michelle Buteau is set to kick off the New Year with a bang on Netflix. The streaming giant will premiere her latest stand-up special, "Michelle Buteau: A Buteau-ful Mind at Radio City Music Hall," on December 31st. This special holds significance as Buteau becomes the first female comedian to film a stand-up special at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan. During her performance, Buteau delves into topics such as motherhood and marriage, all while enjoying a glass of rosé through a straw.

This isn’t Buteau’s first venture with Netflix, as she is also gearing up for the second season of her comedy series "Survival of the Thickest." Her previous Netflix special, "Michelle Buteau: Welcome to Buteaupia," released in 2020, earned her a Critics Choice Award for best comedy special. Joining her as executive producers for the new special are Wanda Sykes and Page Hurwitz, through their production company Push It Productions, with Hurwitz co-directing alongside Sandra Restrepo.

In a recent interview with THR, Buteau discussed her decision to film at Radio City Music Hall and her approach to incorporating personal experiences into her comedy. She shared her thoughts on the significance of the venue choice and the challenges it presented, emphasizing her desire to create a New York City experience for viewers worldwide. Despite the financial and logistical hurdles, Buteau felt compelled to make history and take a chance on the iconic venue.

Buteau also delved into the delicate balance of including personal anecdotes, particularly those involving her young twins, in her material. She highlighted the importance of honesty in her comedy while being mindful of the long-term impact on her children. Additionally, she touched on the process of selecting material for a Netflix special, noting that certain content is better suited for live performances rather than recorded specials.

Throughout her performance, Buteau doesn’t shy away from addressing controversial topics, including a playful jab at fellow comedian Dave Chappelle. She explained her approach to incorporating social commentary into her comedy, emphasizing the power of humor in addressing societal issues. Buteau aims to blend entertainment with thought-provoking content, encouraging audiences to engage with important themes in a lighthearted manner.

Furthermore, Buteau’s candid discussions about money and gender roles in her comedy challenge traditional taboos, showcasing her unapologetic approach to self-expression. She advocates for breaking free from societal expectations and embracing authenticity, particularly when it comes to discussing finances and personal desires.

As she continues to push boundaries and make her mark in the comedy world, Buteau remains candid about her journey and the challenges she faces in an industry where pay disparities persist. Despite the hurdles, Buteau’s bold and refreshing comedic style resonates with audiences, offering a unique blend of humor and social commentary.

"Michelle Buteau: A Buteau-ful Mind at Radio City Music Hall" promises to deliver laughter and insight as it streams on Netflix on December 31st, marking another milestone in Buteau’s comedic career.