Comedian Matt Friend Reveals Insights into His Viral Political Impressions and Upcoming Projects
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In the fast-paced world of comedy, one rising star is making waves with his viral political impressions and his innovative approach to the art form. Matt Friend, a 27-year-old comedian, is not just content with making people laugh; he is on a mission to revolutionise the comedy-going experience. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Friend shared details about his latest project and his interactions with industry stalwarts and childhood celebrity crushes.
Friend’s journey to fame began with his spot-on impressions of a diverse range of stars, from President Donald Trump to Jeff Goldblum. However, he is not one to rest on his laurels. With the backing of the payment and rewards platform Bilt, Friend is set on transforming the comedy landscape. He has partnered with Bilt to host Bilt Neighborhood Comedy, a series of exclusive comedy events designed to create a party-like atmosphere for comedy enthusiasts.
The Bilt Neighborhood Comedy events have been a resounding success, with over 23 shows held in cities like New York City, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Boston. Friend’s vision for these events goes beyond just entertainment; he aims to foster a sense of community by bringing together both upcoming stand-up performers and established comedy legends on one stage. The upcoming shows in Brooklyn and Chicago promise to be no different, offering audiences a unique and intimate comedy experience.
The inaugural show at Brooklyn’s Lucali not only set the tone for the series but also attracted A-list attendees like Anne Hathaway and her husband. Friend’s star-studded events have drawn renowned comedians like Marcello Hernandez, Mark Normand, and Roy Wood, Jr., eager to showcase their talent to a diverse audience. With comedians lining up to be part of his shows, Friend is not only a performer but also a talent scout, dedicated to promoting emerging artists in the comedy scene.
Outside of his Bilt commitments, Friend is embarking on a nationwide comedy tour and gearing up to film his first comedy special. With his sights set on the big screen and larger hosting opportunities, Friend is determined to take his career to new heights. Supported by industry veterans like John Stamos and Hank Azaria, he is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Despite the popularity of his political impressions, Friend remains humble and grounded, acknowledging the contentious nature of some of his portrayals. While his Trump impression garners significant attention, Friend is equally adept at impersonating personalities like Mitch McConnell, Bernie Sanders, and Barack Obama. However, it is his celebrity-focused impressions, such as Jeff Goldblum, Howard Stern, and young actors like Timothée Chalamet and Austin Butler, that have propelled him to widespread acclaim.
Friend’s encounters with his childhood celebrity crushes, including Megan Fox, Kate Upton, and Emily Ratajkowski, highlight the surreal nature of his journey in comedy. Maintaining his composure in the presence of these icons, Friend balances admiration with professionalism, a testament to his poise and respect for his craft. As he navigates the complexities of fame and ambition, Friend’s commitment to uplifting emerging talent and redefining comedy for a new generation sets him apart as a formidable force in the entertainment industry.