Josh2funny, a rising star in the Nigerian comedy scene, has opened up about his decision to retire his popular character, Mama Felicia. Known for his hilarious skits featuring outlandish characters, Mama Felicia stood out for being portrayed by Josh2funny himself, dressed in women’s clothing. However, in a recent interview on The Honest Bunch podcast, Josh2funny revealed the surprising reason behind leaving the character behind: unwelcome advances from male fans.
From Mama Felicia to Brother Zacchaeus: A Comedic Shift
Mama Felicia, with her booming voice, exaggerated mannerisms, and signature look, was a comedic powerhouse. But for Josh2funny, the character became more than he bargained for. The difference between me and some other people who do female characters,” he explained on the podcast, “is that mine was pure comedy. Anyone who liked me [as Mama Felicia] didn’t really have sense and didn’t understand because I made sure it was stupid.”
Despite his comedic portrayal, Josh2funny began receiving inappropriate attention from male fans who mistook the character for a real woman. “I see, you see these advances,” he said. “One guy came to my WhatsApp and said he really liked me.” These encounters became increasingly uncomfortable, leading Josh2funny to make a tough decision. “It was becoming embarrassing for me,” he admitted, “because I mean, I just want to make people laugh.”
The solution? The birth of Brother Zacchaeus. This new character, played by Josh2funny in men’s clothing, retained the comedic energy of Mama Felicia, but without the unwanted attention. “Mama Felicia I turned Brother Zacchaeus,” he said simply. Instead of wearing female dress, I had to drop it and start putting on male clothes, using the same accent.
The Challenges of Crossdressing in Comedy
Josh2funny’s experience sheds light on the unexpected challenges faced by comedians who use crossdressing as part of their routine. While the comedic potential of playing against gender stereotypes is undeniable, it can also lead to misinterpretations and harassment.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Comedians like Eddie Murphy (as Rasputia on Saturday Night Live) and Tyler Perry (as Madea in his films and plays) have also spoken about facing similar issues. The line between character and performer can blur for some audience members, leading to confusion and inappropriate behavior.
Beyond the Laughs: The Importance of Consent
Josh2funny’s story highlights the importance of respecting boundaries, even in the context of comedy. Comedians who use crossdressing rely on the audience’s understanding that the character is a performance, not a real person. When that line is crossed, the creative space becomes unsafe and stifling.
This isn’t to say that crossdressing in comedy is off-limits. However, it’s crucial for both comedians and audiences to be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation and ensure that the humor comes from the character itself, not the performer’s gender presentation.
The Evolution of Josh2funny: Embracing New Characters
While Mama Felicia may be retired, Josh2funny’s comedic journey continues. His ability to create engaging characters and hilarious scenarios has propelled him to stardom, with skits like “#DontLeaveMe” going viral and his appearance on America’s Got Talent showcasing his talent on a global stage.
Brother Zacchaeus isn’t the only new face in Josh2funny’s comedic repertoire. He continues to develop a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique quirks and comedic potential. This dedication to fresh material and audience engagement is a testament to his comedic talent and ensures his continued success.
The Future of Comedy: Respect and Innovation
Josh2funny’s story is a reminder that comedy thrives on innovation and respect. By pushing boundaries while being mindful of audience expectations, comedians can create hilarious content that entertains without causing discomfort. As the comedy landscape evolves, it’s important to strike a balance between pushing the envelope and creating a safe space for both performers and audiences.
Josh2funny’s journey, with its unexpected twists and turns, is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in the world of comedy. By embracing new characters and prioritizing audience comfort, he is sure to continue making audiences laugh for years to come.
