Watch Hysterical

Hysterical is a powerful and hilarious documentary series that premiered on FX on April 2nd, 2021. Presented as a six-episode series, Hysterical offers an in-depth look at the lives and careers of some of the most talented, groundbreaking, and influential female comedians working in stand-up comedy today.

The series, directed by Andrea Nevins, delves into the world of female comedians to offer a unique perspective on comedy, the industry, and the lived experiences of some of the biggest and most beloved names in the business. From Ali Wong, who shot to fame with her now iconic specials Baby Cobra and Hard Knock Wife, to Iliza Shlesinger, the first woman and youngest person to win Last Comic Standing, and Amy Schumer, whose frank and incisive comedy has earned her a place in the pantheon of greats, Hysterical tackles the triumphs, challenges, and raw emotions these women experience day in and day out.

One of the show's key strengths is the range of styles and approaches each comedian brings to the work. From Wong's bold and brash persona, to Shlesinger's razor-sharp wit and Schumer's unapologetic feminist views and boundary-pushing humor, Hysterical expertly weaves together the stories of these women in a way that both entertains and informs.

Beyond the laughs, however, the series is also a timely and important exploration of the ongoing fight for equal representation and opportunities in a male-dominated industry. Throughout the series, the comedians reflect on the many challenges they have faced and continue to face, from dealing with sexism and harassment to fighting for equal pay and respect as performers. The series is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of women in comedy, even in the face of adversity.

Perhaps most importantly, Hysterical offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives of these comedians and the sacrifices they have had to make in order to pursue their dreams. From early morning writing sessions to late night performances and the constant hustle to land gigs and elevate their careers, viewers get a sense of the intense dedication and focus that goes into the work of these comedians.

Throughout it all, however, Hysterical never loses sight of the joy and pure fun of comedy. Whether they're performing for large crowds or small venues, testing out new material or riffing off the energy of the crowd, these women are in their element when they're on stage. There's an infectious energy and passion to their work that is impossible to resist, and Hysterical captures it all with aplomb.

At its core, Hysterical is a love letter to the art of stand-up comedy and the women who are pushing the boundaries of the form. By blending humor, heart, and inspiration, the series manages to be both hilarious and eye-opening. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves comedy, feminism, or just great storytelling.

Hysterical is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between April 2, 2021 and on FX