Robby Hoffman thinks comics can ‘say anything’ — and she does
Sep 3, 2026 · 36m
Summary
Comedian Robbie Hoffman joins NPR’s Newsmakers to discuss her career, from bombing at her first stand-up set to her roles in Hacks and Rooster. She addresses criticism regarding her jokes on sensitive topics, defends her right to explore queer identity through humor, and recounts a traumatic experience questioning the Writers Guild of America during the 2023 strike. Hoffman also reflects on her journey from poverty to success and her commitment to authenticity.
Topics discussed
Introduction and show overview
Robbie Hoffman's first stand-up experience
Responsibility for joke interpretation and topics
A controversial joke about disability and poverty
Mother's influence and tenacity
Relationship with money and success
Confrontation at the Writers Guild of America
Identity, responsibility, and pronoun jokes
Reflections on younger self and current identity
Freedom of speech in comedy and late night TV
Future projects and closing remarks
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