Why Joe Rogan’s Comedian Friends Are Rethinking Their Move to Texas

Several comedians who followed Joe Rogan to Texas are having second thoughts about their move. Rogan, known for his controversial views on COVID and vaccines on The Joe Rogan Experience, left California in 2020, seeking a more relaxed environment during the pandemic. But now, many of his peers are reconsidering their choices.

A recent report from Chron highlights that comedians who migrated to Austin for a fresh start are starting to voice their discontent. They were drawn by the promise of thriving comedy scenes and the chance to be near Rogan’s venue, the Comedy Mothership. Yet, some are now expressing regret.

Comedian Shane Gillis, who moved to Austin in 2023, shared frustrations on Andrew Schulz’s podcast, recounting a power outage that left his house sweltering and swarmed with bugs. He had hoped for better tax benefits and more opportunities for stand-up but is facing unexpected challenges.

Brendan Schaub, another comedian who relocated from L.A. to Austin, shared on his podcast that he misses the community he had back in California. The sense of belonging is important for artists, and the isolation many feel in a new city can be tough.

Tim Dillon didn’t hold back either. He described Austin as lacking soul and criticized its music scene on Whitney Cummings’ podcast, calling the city “soulless” and comparing its vibe to a bad joke. Dillon returned to L.A. after giving Texas a fair shot, acknowledging some financial benefits but ultimately feeling that something was missing.

This trend of comedians moving to Texas reflects a broader shift. According to a 2023 study by the U.S. Census Bureau, Texas saw a significant influx of residents from other states in recent years, many searching for lower taxes and fewer restrictions. However, as these artists are discovering, new environments come with their own set of challenges.

Social media reactions also illustrate this growing discomfort. Many fans of Rogan and these comedians are sharing their mixed feelings about the Texas scene. Some express excitement about the changes, while others resonate with the comedians’ frustrations.

The contrast between what these artists expected and their reality serves as a reminder: even in pursuit of new opportunities, what feels like paradise on the surface may not always be so.

For more insights on the ongoing migration trends and what they mean for cities like Austin, you can check this Census Bureau report.

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