Samay Raina's 'Still Alive' becomes most-watched stand-up special in world with 53.4 million views
Mumbai, April 22
Comedian Samay Raina has made a strong comeback after more than a year away from the public eye following the 'India's Got Latent' controversy, with his latest comedy special achieving a major global milestone online.
Raina recently released his debut stand-up special titled 'Still Alive' on YouTube, which has now crossed 53.4 million views. According to a release, it has emerged as the most-watched full-length stand-up comedy special in the world from a single upload.
With this achievement, Raina has reportedly become the first comedian to hold the record for the highest-viewed stand-up special globally on a single video platform upload.
'Still Alive' also marks Raina's first official stand-up special. In the 1-hour and 21-minute-long performance, he speaks candidly about the 'India's Got Latent' controversy, his one-year break from public appearances, personal and financial struggles, childhood bullying, his Kashmiri Pandit identity, mental health and the support he received from fans and close friends.
For those unversed, the 'India's Got Latent' controversy began in February last year after Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, and Apoorva Mukhija appeared as panellists on the show. A remark made by Allahbadia triggered widespread backlash, following which FIRs were filed against Samay Raina and others involved.
Following the controversy, Raina removed the show from YouTube, while Allahbadia later issued a public apology. Despite the setback, Samay has also indicated that a second season of India's Got Latent is in the works.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Watched it all the way from Toronto - absolutely deserved! Samay's ability to turn a career-threatening controversy into comedy gold is masterful. The personal struggles and bullying stories hit hard but he kept it light. India's comedy scene is on fire right now! 🔥
Look, I'm happy for Samay's success, but let's not forget the controversy started because some of these comedians crossed lines. While the special is good, we need to hold them accountable for content that disrespects others. The 53M views show people want comedy, but not at the cost of decency. Just my two paise. 🤷♀️
As someone who follows global comedy, this is genuinely impressive. Most-watched stand-up special EVER on a single upload? That's bigger than Netflix specials from top US comedians. Samay's blend of personal storytelling and social commentary is connecting with audiences worldwide. Well deserved! 👏
Samay Raina proving that you can turn a crisis into a comeback! 🚀 The way he owned up to the IGL mess and still made people laugh is pure class. His candid talk about financial struggles and mental health really resonated with me. So proud of our desi boy going global! Can we get a tour in India soon? 🙏
Honestly, I wasn't a fan before the controversy, but 'Still Alive' changed my mind. The 81 minutes flew by - it's not just jokes, there
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