How Dropout Cracked Internet Comedy
Dropout, a comedy streaming platform, has found success by avoiding the growth-at-all-costs model of larger competitors. CEO Sam Reich discusses the evolution of online comedy and the unique approach Dropout takes in creating content. The platform emphasizes building a loyal audience rather than chasing mass appeal, resulting in a distinct and playful brand of comedy.
- ▪Dropout was founded in 2018 as part of CollegeHumor and was acquired by Sam Reich for $0.
- ▪Since 2020, Dropout has become a successful online comedy platform with a unique slate of shows.
- ▪The company encourages password-sharing and does not run advertisements on its platform.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
PodcastsHow Dropout Cracked Internet ComedySam Reich on building “better internet” and not “worse Netflix”By Charlie WarzelIllustration by Renee Klahr / The AtlanticMay 22, 2026, 1 PM ET ShareSave Listen−1.0x+Seek0:0039:12Subscribe here: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube How do you build a streaming service from scratch? On this week’s Galaxy Brain, Charlie Warzel speaks with Sam Reich, the CEO of Dropout, a comedy streaming platform that’s found success eschewing the growth-at-all-costs model of the mega streamers. The two discuss the pre-YouTube days of online video and how Reich acquired Dropout, formerly known as the internet site CollegeHumor, for $0.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Atlantic.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Atlantic
