Matt Rife has rapidly become one of the most prominent rising stars in the comedy scene over the past year. Although he might seem like a newcomer, Matt is actually a seasoned performer with years of experience, having entertained audiences across the country long before his viral fame in 2022. Recently, he has expanded his horizons to explore various business ventures, including a notable claim made in August 2025 regarding his intention to purchase the Warrens’ Occult Museum, a fascinating and unusual endeavor that reflects his diverse interests.

There is much to learn about Matt and his journey in the entertainment industry. Discover more intriguing details about his life and career below!

Discover Matt’s Self-Released Comedy Specials Leading Up to His Netflix Premiere

Although Matt made his official Netflix debut in November 2023, he has already built a substantial portfolio of work for his new fans to enjoy. In addition to his appearances in various films and TV shows, Matt released his first comedy special, Only Fans, on YouTube in 2021. This special has impressively garnered over 11 million views as of November 2023. He continued to build his fan base with his next release, Matthew Steven Rife, which has attracted more than 17 million viewers since its debut in April 2023. Furthermore, his crowd work special Walking Red Flag, launched in June 2023, has reached an audience of over 9 million, showcasing his unique style and humor.

How Matt Rife Started His Comedy Journey as a Teenager

Despite being one of the younger comedians performing at such a high level, Matt has been honing his craft for more than a decade. He took his first steps into the world of stand-up comedy at the age of 15, participating in open mic nights—an essential starting point for aspiring comedians to experiment with their material and develop their comedic voice, as reported by The New York Times. This early initiation into the comedy scene helped him build a solid foundation for his future success.

Which Crowd Work Clips Contributed to His Viral Fame?

As evidenced by his special Walking Red Flag, crowd work—a comedic style involving direct interaction with the audience—plays a significant role in Matt’s performances. He frequently shares clips of his engaging interactions with audience members on his social media platforms. Interestingly, one specific crowd work clip was pivotal in launching his fame and expanding his audience reach.

One of Matt’s viral breakout clips was shared in July 2022, featuring him engaging with an audience member who had recently ended a relationship with her boyfriend, who was later revealed to be a healthcare worker in an emergency room. This clip has since amassed over 40 million views, causing a remarkable ripple effect and dramatically increasing his following. “It became this massive chain reaction and an explosion of an audience. From then on, every video I posted went viral,” Matt shared with The New York Times regarding the transformative experience.

What Was His Role on ‘Wild ‘n Out’?

While Matt is primarily recognized for his stand-up comedy, he has also ventured into acting. One of his most notable appearances was on the popular improv comedy show Wild ‘n Out on MTV, where he showcased his comedic talents. During his time on the show, he participated in 16 episodes from 2015 to 2017, further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

Who Did Matt Rife Date? Insights into His Relationship with Kate Beckinsale

In addition to his comedic prowess, many have noted Matt’s striking looks, which have sparked curiosity about his romantic life. As a result, fans and media outlets alike have speculated about his relationships, particularly with notable figures in the entertainment world.

Matt tends to keep his relationships private; however, he made headlines back in 2017 when it was revealed that he was romantically involved with Kate Beckinsale, the acclaimed English actress. The couple was spotted kissing in June 2017, leading to reports by sources like Us Weekly that they were spending time together. They were also seen together in September 2018, according to People. After their relationship ended, the actress was later linked to another comedian, Pete Davidson, with whom she briefly dated at the start of 2019.