Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay:
How to watch Don’t Be Gay outside the US on Max
To watch Don’t Be Gay outside the US, start by using a trusted VPN and connect to a US server. Next, go to either the Max website or Hulu with the Max add-on and log in with your subscription. Once you’re in, you can stream the full special online from anywhere.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a US-based server.
- Visit the Max website or log in to Hulu if your subscription includes the Max add-on.
- You are all set to watch the Jerrod Carmichael’s HBO special, Don’t Be Gay
Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay (2025) TV Special Synopsis
Jerrod Carmichael’s Don’t Be Gay is his latest HBO comedy special, a brutally honest and often hilarious deep dive into identity, shame, sexuality, race, and self-perception. Filmed at the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater in New York City, this 53-minute special marks a more straightforward approach to comedy from the Emmy-winning comedian. While still deeply personal, Carmichael’s storytelling feels freer, more self-assured, and celebratory—detailing his queer experience, his relationship with his religious mother, his white boyfriend, and his ongoing pursuit of approval from Black audiences.
When Does Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay Premiere?
Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay premieres on May 24, 2025, at 10 PM ET/PT on HBO and will be available to stream on Max.
Where can I watch Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay in the US?
You can watch Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay in the US on HBO and stream it on Max. It’s also available on Hulu if you add the Max add-on to your Hulu subscription. This lets you stream the special directly through Hulu with full access to Max’s library.
Is Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay available to stream in Canada?
Yes, in Canada, the special is available to stream on Crave, which includes all HBO content. You’ll need an active Crave subscription, and the special can be streamed on web browsers, smart TVs, mobile apps, and other supported platforms.
How can I stream Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay in Australia?
In Australia, you can stream Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay on Max, where the special is part of the HBO content lineup. Just sign in with a valid Max subscription to watch it on-demand through the app or supported devices.
Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay Cast
The special features Jerrod Carmichael as the sole performer, sharing stories from his life, relationships, and identity. It is directed by Ari Katcher and edited by James Atkinson. Executive producers include Carmichael himself, Matthew Vaughan, Susie Fox, and Sarah Haughney.
Is Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay Suitable for All Ages?
No. The special is not suitable for all ages. It contains explicit language, sexually graphic material, and mature themes involving identity, infidelity, and mental health. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for younger audiences.
Can You Watch Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay Online for Free?
Yes, but only through legitimate trial offers. You can access the special for free by starting a Hulu free trial and adding Max as a 7-day trial add-on.
FAQs
What is Jerrod Carmichael’s special really about?
Don’t Be Gay is about more than sexuality—it explores Carmichael’s internal battles with shame, the quest for self-acceptance, Black identity, familial expectations, and what it means to truly live openly.
How does this special compare to Rothaniel?
While Rothaniel was deeply introspective and emotionally raw, Don’t Be Gay is more liberated, confident, and comedic. It’s lighter in tone but still packs emotional punches, showcasing a comedian fully in command of his narrative.
Is this special connected to his reality show?
Yes, it builds on themes from Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show, diving deeper into his personal life, relationships, and the fallout from being publicly out. The special responds to some reactions from that series.
Where was the special filmed?
The special was filmed at the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater in New York City in February 2025. The setting is intimate, with minimal staging, drawing full attention to Carmichael’s performance.
What sets this special apart from other stand-up shows?
Its intimacy, visual style, and Carmichael’s uniquely fearless storytelling. While many comics avoid vulnerable truths, Carmichael dives headfirst into topics like gay sex, familial rejection, race, and personal hypocrisy—with humor and grace.
Who is Ari Katcher, the director?
Ari Katcher is a long-time collaborator of Jerrod Carmichael, known for his ability to blend cinematic presentation with raw, emotional depth in comedy storytelling.
What to expect from Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay?
You can expect a funny, honest, and very personal comedy special. Jerrod talks about being gay, his family, his boyfriend, and how people react to his life. It’s emotional, bold, and full of moments that will make you laugh and think at the same time.
Jerrod Carmichael: Don’t Be Gay Trailer
You can watch the trailer here.
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