CollegeHumor, the iconic sketch comedy company, has gone through a significant transformation under the leadership of CEO Sam Reich. Originally founded in 1999 by Josh Abramson and Ricky Van Veen, CollegeHumor gained fame for its short-form comedy videos that attracted millions of views on platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Over the years, the company became a breeding ground for talented comedians, launching the careers of notable personalities like Jake Hurwitz, Amir Blumenfeld, Brennan Lee Mulligan, and Sarah Schneider.
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However, by 2020, CollegeHumor had faced a decline in its success. The workforce had been reduced to just six employees, and the company was struggling to stay afloat. It was at this critical juncture that Sam Reich stepped in to acquire CollegeHumor and its streaming service, Dropout. Despite facing skepticism from others, Reich saw a bright future for the company and embarked on a mission to revitalize it. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Reich discussed his vision for CollegeHumor’s revival and how he aimed to make it more successful and sustainable.
Reich’s strategy focused on repositioning Dropout as the central pillar of the business. By tailoring the content to resonate with its dedicated fanbase, Reich aimed to create a unique online platform that offered authentic and engaging entertainment. Dropout, which originally launched in 2018, featured a range of shows led by talented improv comedians. The platform’s success was evident as popular shows like Dimension 20 drew in massive audiences, even selling out live performances at prestigious venues like Madison Square Garden.
One of the key aspects of Dropout’s strategy was its emphasis on engaging with the online audience through platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. By sharing content snippets and leveraging internet trends, Dropout managed to attract a wider audience and enhance its visibility. Reich acknowledged the power of social media in amplifying the reach of their shows and creating a buzz around their content.
Furthermore, Reich aimed to provide a platform for creative talents to flourish without conforming to the traditional model of becoming full-time influencers. He highlighted the importance of offering opportunities for creators to thrive within the company’s infrastructure, fostering a supportive environment for artistic expression. Reich’s approach resonated with both the audience and the talent, culminating in the success of Dropout and its unique content offerings.
Despite achieving significant milestones like selling out Madison Square Garden, Reich remains focused on pushing the boundaries of creativity and aiming for greater success. Reflecting on the evolution of CollegeHumor into Dropout, Reich expressed his commitment to continuous innovation and growth. The rebranding of CHMedia sites to Dropout symbolised a new chapter in the company’s journey, signalling a shift towards a more dynamic and progressive digital landscape.
In conclusion, the transformation of CollegeHumor under Sam Reich’s leadership serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of digital media companies in the ever-evolving entertainment industry. By embracing change, engaging with the online community, and nurturing creative talents, CollegeHumor has reinvented itself for the new internet age, paving the way for a future filled with exciting possibilities and innovative content.