Academy Award-Nominated Comedian, Writer & Filmmaker; Creator of "Soft Focus with Jena Friedman"; Author of "Not Funny"
Jena Friedman Biography
Jena Friedman is an Academy Award-nominated comedian, writer, filmmaker, and cultural commentator known for her satirical approach to contemporary comedy. Friedman studied anthropology at Northwestern University and worked as a healthcare consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton while performing stand-up comedy before pursuing a full-time career in entertainment. Her background in social observation and analysis informs much of her work, which often addresses cultural and societal issues.
Friedman's television career began behind the scenes at major late-night programs. She served as a field producer on "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," where she wrote and directed field segments, and later worked as a writer for the "Late Show with David Letterman." Friedman created "Soft Focus with Jena Friedman," a series of specials for Adult Swim, which she also co-executive produced, directed, and hosted. She developed "True Crime Story: Indefensible" for AMC+, a docuseries that examines murder cases and highlights flaws in the criminal justice system through comedic analysis.
In film, Friedman contributed to "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay and a Writers Guild of America Award. She appeared in the movie "Palm Springs" and on television shows including "Conan" and "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." Friedman is credited with story development on the Netflix romantic comedy series "Nobody Wants This." Her stand-up specials include "American Cunt," named one of the Top Ten Comedy Specials by Paste Magazine, and "Ladykiller," which was ranked second in Decider's Ten Best Stand Up Specials. Friedman taped "Ladykiller" while pregnant, reflecting her commitment to her craft.
Friedman's writing has appeared in The New Yorker, Artnet, and The Guardian. Her debut book, "Not Funny," became a national bestseller and features essays on cancel culture, sexism, work, celebrity culture, and taboo topics. Friedman has also delivered a TED talk titled "The Jokes AI Won't Tell" and performed her solo show Motherf*cker at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Through her work in stand-up, television, film, and publishing, Friedman explores the intersections of comedy, social commentary, and cultural critique.
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Jena Friedman Videos
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How do I book Jena Friedman to speak at my event?
Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Jena Friedman for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Jena Friedman, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Jena Friedman or any other speaker of your choice. -
What are the speaker fees for Jena Friedman
Speaking fees for Jena Friedman, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Jena Friedman are $10,000 - $20,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Jena Friedman, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does Jena Friedman speak about?
Jena Friedman is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Celebrity, Comedian, Non-Fiction Authors, Television & Film -
Where does Jena Friedman travel from?
Jena Friedman generally travels from Los Angeles, CA, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
Who is Jena Friedman’s agent?
AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Jena Friedman for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Jena Friedman for your next private or corporate function. -
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Jena Friedman is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Jena Friedman for your event is $10,000 - $20,000. Jena Friedman generally travels from Los Angeles, CA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are John Mulaney, Maz Jobrani, Fern Brady, Mae Martin and Edy Modica. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Jena Friedman for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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