"‘Extreme left”-When Jerry Seinfeld criticized progressive political and cultural trends for destroying comedy

Jerry Seinfeld (born April 29, 1954) is an American comedian, actor, and author. He is most recognized for his observational humor. In addition to co-creating and scripting the sitcom Seinfeld (1989-1998), he rose to prominence as the show's protagonist.

The show grew to become one of the most popular sitcoms in history. Among his numerous awards are the Golden Globe and the Emmy. In addition, he co-wrote the animated feature Bee Movie (2007) and produced and hosted the television show Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. His most recent production is the Netflix film Unfrosted (2024).

Jerry took back his remarks about political correctness hurting comedy about two months ago. He first asserted in April 2024 that progressive movements stifled comedy, but he later acknowledged on Tom Papa's Breaking Bread podcast that humor can change with the times. He said:

“I said that the ‘extreme left’ has suppressed the art of comedy. I did say that. That’s not true”

He admitted that these modifications don't reduce comedy's humor or creativity.

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More about how Jerry Seinfeld’s statements

About two months back, Jerry retracted his remarks regarding political correctness and the "extreme left" undermining comedy. In an interview with The New Yorker Radio Hour in April 2024, Seinfeld stated that progressive political movements were restricting comedy by making individuals too concerned about upsetting others.

Later, he admitted on Tom Papa's Breaking Bread podcast that his previous words were incorrect. He stated that humor can adapt to cultural changes, and that these changes do not stifle innovation or render comedy less hilarious.

He added that because of these worries, there were less humorous TV programs and that viewers were switching to stand-up comedy since it appeared to be less constrained. However, he eventually conceded that his first assertions were inaccurate. On the podcast, he stressed that the "extreme left" does not prohibit comedy.

He accepted that humor evolves in response to societal changes, and said,

“Whatever the culture is, we make the gate. You don’t make the gate, you’re out of the game. The game is, ‘Where is the gate, how do I make the gate and get down the hill the way I want to?’”

Seinfeld also clarified a common myth regarding his thoughts on college performances.He clarified that he never indicated he wouldn't perform in universities because the students were too politically correct. He claimed that he frequently performs in universities and likes it.

Seinfeld underlined that despite changing societal standards, humor can still flourish. He admitted that some subjects might no longer be appropriate for humor, but he thinks comedians can still be successful if they are more deliberate and careful with their content.

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Jerry Seinfeld career explored

In the 1970s, Jerry started his comedic career by appearing on TV programs like The Tonight Show and performing at open-mic nights. When he co-created the popular television program Seinfeld in 1988, he got his big break. After nine great seasons, the program rose to become one of the most watched sitcoms ever.

Following his departure in 1998, Jerry resumed stand-up comedy. He carried on with his global tour. Additionally, he produced a web series called Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. In this, he conversed with other comedians while operating various vehicles.

Jerry secured a contract with Netflix in 2017 to produce new stand-up specials as well as further episodes of his web series. In 2024, he directed and performed in the comedy Unfrosted.