The comedian Chris Rock will serve as the host of a live special for Netflix next year. The on-demand service has attracted millions of viewers away from traditional broadcast television.
The comedy series, which will be Rock’s second for Netflix following “Chris Rock: Tamborine” in 2018, will debut in early 2023, according to the company without revealing any additional information.
“Chris Rock is one of the most iconic and important comedic voices of our generation,” said Netflix comedy vice-president Robbie Praw, in a statement.
“We’re thrilled the entire world will be able to experience a live Chris Rock comedy event and be a part of Netflix history.
“This will be an unforgettable moment and we’re so honored that Chris is carrying this torch.”
Netflix has been experimenting with new business models, such as a less expensive subscription option supported by advertisements, after experiencing its first subscriber loss earlier this year and recently reporting a return to growth.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Netflix was considering making live sports available for the first time on its platform.
Competitors like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video already provide live sporting and musical events.
Although Netflix hosts a live comedy festival in Los Angeles at over 35 venues, those performances have not yet been broadcast live on the service.
One of the most well-known comedians in the world, Rock, made headlines in March when Will Smith slapped him on stage during the Oscars.
