Just for Laughs 2021 keeps the comedy coming with a stacked hybrid festival

The annual Just for Laughs comedy festival has been a Montreal summer staple for decades now, with comedians and industry shakers from around the world turning the city into a comedy summer camp for two weeks each year.

While the pandemic has placed the full JFL experience on hold, festival organizers have put together a hybrid edition for Just for Laughs 2021 featuring a handful of in-person Montreal shows alongside a huge slate of previously-taped events. Best of all, viewers can stream all the fun for free at home starting this week.

We’ve highlighted some of our most anticipated shows below, ranging from the star-studded Just for Laughs Awards Show (usually only open to industry and press) to the series of in-person stand-up tapings featuring some of the best current Canadian comics.

Visit the official festival site for the complete Just for Laughs 2021 schedule.

The Alternative Show
Hosted by the incredible Andy Kindler, this taped special features a mind-boggling list of some of the best comedians working today including Patton Oswalt, Maria Bamford, Laurie Kilmartin, and more, filmed live in Los Angeles. But the real reason to tune in is Kindler himself, who brilliantly deconstructs and twists each joke thoroughly before it even leaves his mouth. Listen to our interview with Kindler here. Streaming as of July 29.

Just for Laughs Live in L.A. 
A number of beloved JFL regulars join forces for this taped event, including Maz Jobrani, Gina Yashere, Alonzo Bodden (who might as well be the Montreal JFL mascot), Sabrina Jalees, and more. After you tune in, check out our interviews with Gina Yashere and Alonzo Bodden to learn more about their backstories and how they came to comedy. Streaming as of July 29.

Just for Laughs Live in NY
It should come as no surprise that JFL was able to put together a killer lineup of comics for this special shot in NYC, one of the best cities for live comedy in the world (apart from Montreal, that is). Todd Barry is on this list (which already makes it a must-see), alongside comics including Marina Franklin, Jessica Kirson, and more. If you’re a JFL regular, you’ve probably seen a set or two from many on this list, which should make it feel like a virtual homecoming. Don’t miss our deep dive interview with Todd Barry discussing the finer points of hotel rooms here. Streaming as of July 28.

Just for Laughs Live in Montreal 
Somewhat confusingly, the Just for Laughs Live in Montreal event is not actually live in Montreal (though there are some live shows happening in the city, more on those below). Hosted by Jon Dore, the show features a cast including Jen Grant, Nigel Grinstead, Cassie Cao, Marito Lopez, Rodney Ramsey, and Dino Archie. Grab some steamies and start watching as of July 30.

Just for Laughs Award Show
Traditionally only open to members of the industry and press, this year’s Just for Laughs Awards Show is now available to everyone through the magic of Zoom and FaceTime. While the red carpet may be missing, the Amber Ruffin-hosted special features a truly staggering list of recipients including Dave Chappelle (Comedy Person of the Year), Jean Smart (Comedy Performance of the Year), Kristen Wiig & Annie Mumolo (Comedy Writers of the Year), Jason Sudeikis and Bill Lawrence, Co-Creators of Ted Lasso (Comedy Series of the Year), and former Montreal Bowen Yang (Breakout Comedy Star of the Year). Streaming as of July 28 at 7:00pm EST.

Comedy Gold Minds With Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart is presenting a number of virtual events as part of his LOL! Network, including this chat with Neal Brennan that promises to take audiences through a “wild and crazy ride through some of the world’s top comedic minds.” Streaming as of July 28.

CTV Comedy and Crave Stand-up Specials
If you were quick enough to grab tickets to these in-person shows, you’re in for a treat. Featuring some of the best current crop of Canadian comics including Dave Merheje, DeAnne Smith, and Sophie Buddle, these shows should bring back some of the traditional JFL summer magic we’ve been missing. If you were too slow on the draw to grab tickets, don’t worry; these shows are being filmed and will be available to watch on Bell platforms down the road.

Visit the official festival site for the complete Just for Laughs 2021 schedule.