Getting Doug with High

Getting Doug with High is a unique, interesting, and unconventional talk show that was aired on JASH’s Youtube and digital platforms in 2013. It is hosted by the charismatic and hilarious Doug Benson, one of the best-known comedians in the United States, who has a deep and publicly acknowledged fondness for marijuana.

The central premise of Getting Doug with High revolves around hosting a variety of celebrity guests for an often hilarious and sometimes insightful discussion, while they collectively consume marijuana. Each of the roughly hour-long episodes provides an opportunity to see renowned personalities in a more relaxed and off-the-cuff setting than they are typically seen, creating a viewing experience that is both casual and entertaining.

Doug Benson, the host, introduces the show with a simple explanation, "I invite my friends over, we smoke weed and then I ask them questions", which sums up the show's format pretty effectively. Over the course of an episode, Benson and his guests share a casual conversation, which is often assisted by the relaxed state that their joint consumption of cannabis makes them. While the conversation can sometimes veer into typical stoner territory, there are many occasions where the discussions are enlightening and entertaining.

An interesting feature of the show is its interactive nature. Prior to recording the shows, Benson encourages viewers to send their questions over social media, and then he throws these questions to his guests during the show. Additionally, part of the show’s charm is watching the guests' diverse reactions and changing behavior as they share in the marijuana smoking experience.

With such a unique concept, Getting Doug with High has the power to attract a variety of demographics. Audiences from the 18-35 segment, who have grown up with a much more relaxed attitude towards marijuana, will find the casual and jovial nature of the show appealing. Older viewers may be intrigued by the refurbishing of the conventional talk show format or simply to see some of their favorite celebrities in a new light.

Over the seasons, the show has been graced by a number of popular figures from the world of entertainment, comedy, and culture including Sarah Silverman, Jack Black, and Tommy Chong among others. With such high-profile guests and the backdrop of a relaxed, marijuana-assisted conversation, the discussions cover a broad range of topics – from personal anecdotes, career trajectories, to views on social and cultural issues.

However, despite the laid-back and often hilarious nature of the show, Benson has moments where he addresses the serious aspects of marijuana use, including discussions on the benefits, health implications, and the politics surrounding cannabis. These moments are especially notable since they offer an insight and responsible consideration of the subject at hand, while maintaining the overall light-hearted tone of the show.

JASH, the comedycollective and digital studio that produced the show, is known for creating high-quality content and Getting Doug with High is a strong example of their adventurous, innovative ideology. The show was a risk - considering the unconventional subject - but JASH believed in the project due to Benson's popularity and credibility as a comedian, as well as the increasing acceptance and legalization of marijuana. Fortunately, their gamble paid off and the show has become something of a cult favorite.

Serving as a mix of a talk show, comedy, and an exploration of a recreational pastime, Getting Doug with High is very different from anything else you might have seen. The appeal of the show lies in how it takes a ritual, that has often been relegated to basements and backrooms, brings it right onto center stage, and opens up a fascinating, humorous, and sometimes thought-provoking conversation around it.

In conclusion, Getting Doug with High uses humor, celebrity guests, and uncensored conversation to offer a platform where viewers can think, laugh and debate about the dynamics of marijuana use. It is a program that allows audiences to see their favorite celebrities in a different light and offers an engaging albeit unique look into contemporary culture. The show's success is a testament to the evolving societal views on marijuana use and the power of humor to address taboo subjects.