“Speaking truth to power is still the most important thing,” says the actor-director as he reflects on the challenges comedians face today.

October 21, 2025: Ben Stiller, known for his iconic comedies like Zoolander and Tropic Thunder, recently reflected on how the art of comedy has become more challenging in the current political landscape. In an interview with Radio Times, Stiller emphasized that while humor remains a powerful tool for commentary, the environment surrounding comedians has become increasingly cautious and divided.

“Taking chances with comedy is more challenging now,” Stiller said, noting that comedians are often under intense scrutiny for their work. Yet, he insisted that the most important part of comedy remains “speaking truth to power and being free to say what they want.”

The Changing Landscape of Humor

Stiller highlighted that political polarization has made audiences more sensitive, sometimes mistaking satire for offense. He explained that while comedians have always been truth-tellers, the rise of social media has made it easier for jokes to be taken out of context and amplified beyond their intent.

He also shared his concerns about how the digital era has altered the way people engage with entertainment:

“We’ve reduced our attention spans down a little bit. I feel lucky to have grown up in the analogue world,” he admitted.

A Reminder to Stay Fearless

Despite the obstacles, Stiller believes comedy still plays a crucial role in society. “Comedians should never stop speaking their minds,” he said. “That’s how truth gets told — through laughter, discomfort, and courage.”

His words serve as both a reflection and a rallying cry — a reminder that, even in turbulent times, comedy remains one of the last frontiers of honest expression.