Comedian and podcasting pioneer Marc Maron is set to end his flagship show, WTF With Marc Maron, after 16 years on the air. The decision comes as Maron enters the final year of their distribution deal with Acast, which he says was a major factor in his decision.
Maron’s move away from the industry has sparked both excitement and concern among fans and peers. O’Brien credits Maron for putting podcasting on the map, saying “He made it legitimate.” However, others have criticized the industry-wide expectation to put everything on camera, which Maron says is lowering the bar for quality content.
Despite his departure from the mainstream, Maron remains committed to using his platform to address serious issues like free speech and the normalization of extremism in comedy. He has been vocal about his concerns, even going so far as to take aim at male comic podcasters who he believes have contributed to this problem.
Maron’s decision also marks a significant shift for the comedian, who has struggled with anxiety and depression throughout his career. His girlfriend has been a source of support, offering words of encouragement that Maron says have helped him find a new path forward.
The end of WTF With Marc Maron serves as a reminder that even the most established voices in comedy can evolve and adapt to change. As Maron himself notes, “My social life has really been the podcast, mostly, and comedy clubs.” He hopes to reconnect with others outside of his industry, saying “Yeah, I won’t want to do it, but once I’m there, I’ll be good.”
Maron’s decision to end his show may come as a surprise to some, but for fans who have followed his journey over the years, it is a bittersweet moment. As one fan noted, “Marc adapts to change fairly well, even if it’s done through gritted teeth.” The end of WTF With Marc Maron marks the beginning of a new chapter in the comedian’s life, one that promises to be just as authentic and unflinching as his previous work.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/marc-maron-interview-wtf-podcast-ending-whats-next-1236342269