Why? With Hannibal Buress

Why? With Hannibal Buress was a 2015 Comedy Central show that brought together an eclectic mix of humor, intellect, and out-of-the-box thinking. This uniquely curated comedy series was spearheaded by the talented comedic genius, Hannibal Buress. Prolific for his raw, perceptive, and unscripted comedic style, Buress used television as his podium to discuss an assortment of timely and relevant themes through each weekly episode.

The show was an amalgamation of different formats—an urban studio talk show, lively man-on-the-street interviews, pre-recorded skits, as well as a platform for Buress' fresh stand-up routines. The eclectic mix of segments struck a balance between the scripted and the unplanned, contributing to a multifaceted television series that defied the conventional norms of television sketch comedy.

Throughout the season, Buress sought to uncover the 'why' behind a multitude of societal issues, pop culture phenomena, and universally asked questions. In addition to the structured sketches and stand-up routines, the show also incorporated long-form interviews with a roster of celebrity guests, insightful analyses of current affairs, and off-kilter investigations into the ordinary. One of the defining features of Why? With Hannibal Buress was the comedian's knack for wading into waters uncharted by other comedy shows, uncovering oddities and questions hidden in plain sight.

The show's success hinged on the unique charm and unorthodox style of its host. Buress, already well-known for his roles on The Eric Andre Show and Broad City, was praised for his laid-back persona and keen observations. His commentary, rooted in his experiences as a black man in America, lent an authenticity to the show that resonated with audiences. The show was applauded for this blend of high-brow, understated humor, and real-world commentary.

Why? With Hannibal Buress was relentlessly contemporary, and this topicality was one of its biggest strengths. The show's keen observance of the world, combined with Buress' innovative comic mind, helped the series dig deep into the heart of modern society. Each episode was different in theme but coherent in its presentation. The show didn’t shy away from tackling serious issues, and it used humor as a tool to examine and question the complexities of living in an increasingly digital and polarized world.

That's not to say the show was all serious and somber. The comedy was still the driving force, and Buress' sharp wit, unruffled demeanor, and steady punchlines were the stars of the series. He often used the show to channel his own fascination and curiosity, blending comedy with investigative journalism. The audience was allowed to engage with the topics and the humor on a deeper level, making the laughs more rewarding.

The show also gained attention for its notable guest stars, who often featured throughout the season in a variety of comedic sketches and interviews. Despite the presence of these famous faces, it was Buress who held center stage. His distinctive presence, irreverently insightful monologues, and ability to seamlessly shift between formats kept the audience entertained and engaged throughout each episode.

In many ways, Why? With Hannibal Buress stayed true to its name. The show was a question posed at the world, with Buress seeking answers through his own distinct comedy style. It was a creative, impassioned comedic exploration of everything under the sun. From mundane curiosities to societal concerns, Buress dissected every topic with the same discerning eye and subversive humor. Bold, brazen, and always unexpected, Why? With Hannibal Buress served as an intriguing and amusing evolution of the traditional comedy show format, leaving its audience with more questions than answers—delivered with a big side of laughter.