What Happened Between Matt Rife and Brandon Wardell? Find Out Here
by Preethi | Updated Nov 23, 2023
What Happened Between Matt Rife and Brandon Wardell?
In 2016, comedian Matt Rife and fellow comedian Brandon Wardell got into a Twitter feud. It all started when Wardell posted tweets making fun of Rife, sharing screenshots of his Instagram. Rife responded with tweets challenging Wardell to a fight and making derogatory comments.
This exchange also brought attention to Rife's past tweets containing racist and homophobic language. The recent controversy resurfaced this Twitter beef, adding to criticism of Rife's Netflix special for an offensive domestic violence joke and a fake apology targeting the special-needs community. Despite Rife's later defense, the 2016 feud and its fallout have remained in the public eye.
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Who is Matt Rife?
Matt Rife is a 28-year-old American comedian and actor known for his stand-up comedy and appearances on television. Born on September 10, 1995, in Columbus, Ohio, Rife gained early fame with self-produced comedy specials such as "Only Fans" (2021), "Matthew Steven Rife" (2023), and "Walking Red Flag" (2023).
His career includes a recurring role on the sketch improv comedy and rap show "Wild 'n Out." Rife's comedic style covers observational, improvisational, sketch, black, and insult comedy, often delving into subjects like American culture, pop culture, recreational drug use, current events, and human sexuality.
Birth name
Matthew Steven Rife
Born
September 10, 1995
Age
28
Birthplace
Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Medium
Stand-up, television, film
Years Active
2010–present
Matt Rife Early life
Matt Rife was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, and later moved to North Lewisburg, New Albany, and Mount Vernon. His interest in comedy sparked at the age of 14 when he participated in a high school talent show. After performing professionally from the age of 15, Rife, who has three older stepsisters and one younger half-sister, faced a challenging family background. His father, Michael Eric Gutzke, tragically died by suicide when Rife was only 17 months old.
Matt Rife Career
Rife's comedy journey began in 2010, and he quickly rose in the comedy scene, leading to invitations to perform at notable events like SXSW and the Bridgetown Comedy Festival. He appeared on NBC's reality comedy competition show "Bring the Funny" in 2019.
As an actor, Rife has guest roles on shows like "Wild 'n Out," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and "Fresh Off the Boat." Notably, in 2023, he signed with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and released two specials, "Matthew Steven Rife" and "Walking Red Flag," earning $25 million that year from various sources.
Matt Rife Net Worth
As of now, Matt Rife boasts a substantial net worth of $30 million. This wealth comes from his successful career as a comedian, actor, and social media influencer. In 2023 alone, he earned an impressive $25 million, making him one of the top 10 highest-paid social media stars globally. Rife's notable projects include self-produced comedy specials, television appearances, and collaborations with major entertainment agencies.
Who is Brandon Wardell?
Brandon Scott Wardell is a 31-year-old American comedian, writer, and podcast host. Known for alternative and observational comedy, Wardell gained recognition for his contributions to the "d*cks out for Harambe" meme in 2016. Originally from the Seattle area, Wardell moved to Northern Virginia during his childhood and attended Robinson Secondary School.
Birth name
Brandon Scott Wardell
Born
September 5, 1992
Age
31
Birthplace
Seattle, Washington, U.S.
Medium
Stand-up, television, music
Years Active
2010–present
Genres
Alternative comedy,
observational comedy
Brandon Wardell Early life
Born to a Filipino mother and a Spanish father in Manila, Philippines, Wardell grew up in Fairfax, Virginia. A contributor on the ToonZone forum in his youth, Wardell briefly attended Virginia Commonwealth University before dropping out to pursue a comedy career. Despite facing challenges like type 1 diabetes, Wardell's journey into comedy began at 17, performing at open mics in the Washington, D.C. region.
Brandon Wardell Career
Wardell's career took off after being scouted to perform at SXSW and the Bridgetown Comedy Festival. He moved to Los Angeles in 2013, gaining attention through podcasts and securing a spot on Bob Odenkirk's live comedy album, "Amateur Hour."
In 2015, he toured with Bo Burnham, hosted Comedy Central's Snapchat series "Hot Takes," and made his TV debut on Comedy Central's "@midnight" in 2016. Wardell, a writer for Vice and The Washington Post, co-hosts the podcast "Yeah, But Still." His influence extends to popularizing the "d*cks out for Harambe" meme and reportedly signing with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in 2021.
What Happened Between Matt Rife and Brandon Wardell? - FAQs
Wardell mocked Rife on Twitter, sharing Instagram screenshots, leading to a Twitter exchange.
His Netflix special had an offensive domestic violence joke and a fake apology, sparking backlash.
The feud exposed past problematic tweets, lingering in public perception despite later defenses.
He defended himself on Snapchat, citing youth, and addressed the issue in a 2017 interview.
Matt Rife's net worth is $30 million, earning $25 million in 2023, making him a top social media earner.