Jerrod Carmichael’s feeling of always being watched, a sensation stemming from his Christian upbringing and the belief that God is observing his every action, inspired him to create the Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show.
Speaking on Entertainment Weekly’s The Awardist podcast, the Emmy-winning comedian shared how this constant sense of being judged influenced his behavior, even when alone.
“I would rehearse conversations and change outfits at home, even though there was no one there to see me. I realized I was almost performing for myself and for God,” Carmichael explained.
This introspection led to the concept for his show, where he chronicles his efforts to “live more truthfully” after coming out in his 2022 comedy special, Rothaniel.
The presence of a camera crew mirrors his personal experiences, highlighting how everyday activities can feel like performances. “It’s like going to a party. It takes a while — I’m pacing around, getting ready. Leaving the house can feel like going to a show,” the 37-year-old comedian remarked.
The Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show captures these nuances of his life, emphasizing the struggle between authenticity and the performative nature of existence. Carmichael’s reflections extend beyond the show, touching on important aspects of his life, including the backlash he received for a controversial joke and the current state of his relationship with his parents.
For those interested in delving deeper into Carmichael’s thoughts on these subjects and more, including the possibility of another season of his reality show, the full interview is available online.