Louis C.K. Returns to Netflix with New Special Nine Years After Sex Scandal

Nine years after a sexual misconduct scandal led to a severed partnership with Netflix, comedian Louis C.K. is back on the streaming giant's platform with a new stand-up special titled "Ridiculous." The comedian, whose real name is Louis Székely, withdrew from public life in 2017 following a New York Times report detailing allegations of his inappropriate behavior with women, including exposing himself to them. He admitted to wrongdoing and apologized at the time, a case that became a prominent revelation during the Me Too movement.

Netflix initially cut ties with C.K. after releasing his 2017 comedy special. However, the company has now resumed its collaboration. C.K. performed at Netflix's "Netflix is a Joke" festival in May, and the "Ridiculous" special was released on June 30. Robbie Praw, Netflix's head of stand-up programming, explained the decision to Variety, attributing it to C.K.'s recent success as a comedian and emphasizing the principle of audience choice, stating that viewers are free to decide whether to watch the program.

C.K. has successfully rebuilt his career since the 2017 scandal, beginning to perform in stand-up clubs again in 2018. He has steadily increased his popularity through tours and self-released comedy specials distributed via his website. Variety suggests this independence from major distributors has been key to his career's continuation and subsequent return to Netflix. However, his past continues to cast a shadow, with "Ridiculous" reviews frequently referencing the scandal and questioning his ability to continue his career. While his comedic talent is often acknowledged, many critics call for genuine remorse for his past actions, a sentiment he touched upon in his 2020 special "Sincerely Louis C.K." but has largely avoided in subsequent shows, including "Ridiculous."

“

The audience is free to decide whether to watch the program or not.