MONTY BENFICA | Amusements | CONTACT
Local stand-up comedian Finbar Reynold’s (38) decades of honing his craft on the open mic circuit have been swiftly overshadowed by a Gen-Z sensation who went viral on TikTok with a mere 15-second clip of self-deprecating humor.
Finbar, a resident comic in the Australian comedy scene known for his razor-sharp wit and social commentary, was left reeling after stumbling upon a viral video of a 19 year old TikTok comedian that hasn’t even done one comedy set in his life.
Somehow, and also unfairly according to Finbar, Ben Chifley (19) has effortlessly racked up millions of views and likes with his quirky brand of humor and can now live off his comedy career only 2 months at even coming up with the idea of doing this in the first place.
“Yeah it’s pretty cool I guess, not having to work is pretty cool.” Said Ben.
While Ben’s rise to Australian internet stardom has been welcomed by him and his family, other entertainers, like Finbar, believe the success is not deserved.
“I couldn’t believe it,” Finbar lamented, while gripping a lukewarm beer at his local comedy club.
“I’ve spent years perfecting my jokes, performing in dingy basements and dive bars to a handful of patrons, only to be outshone by some kid with a smartphone and an internet connection.”
While Finbar’s peers offered words of comfort, the sting of defeat by comparison lingered, casting a shadow over his once unshakeable confidence.
“It’s a tough pill to swallow,” he admitted.
“To think that all my years of experience count for nothing in the face of viral fame and internet stardom.”
