Matthew Steven Rife, the US-based actor and comedian, has recently found himself embroiled in a controversy. The comic, renowned for his self-produced comedy specials – ‘Walking Red Flag’ (2023), ‘Only Fans’ (2021), and ‘Matthew Steven Rife’ (2023), has come under public scrutiny. Rife, who also gained fame through his recurring role in the sketch improv comedy show ‘Wild ‘n Out’, is now facing backlash following allegations of an altercation with a 6-year-old boy.
The controversy arose when Rife allegedly told the mother of the 6-year-old that he only accepted gifts from fans. This comment followed a wave of criticism against Rife for making light of domestic abuse in his Netflix stand-up special. The situation escalated when Bunny, the mother of the 6-year-old boy, was tagged in a video featuring Rife’s comments about Jupiter and space. The boy, a keen enthusiast of space and Minecraft, was quick to correct the comedian’s false claims about Jupiter in a video.
Rife, on his comic show, had said, “Man, it’s not related to the stars at all. The mere fact that Jupiter has a ring and you do not does not imply…” In response, the 6-year-old countered, “In reality, Saturn is the one with the rings. And you’re mean to girls.” The boy’s retort, intended to be humorous, was taken seriously by Rife, who then allegedly picked a fight with the child.
Rife responded to the video, stating, “Jupiter has a ring as well. And Santa Claus isn’t real, oh dear. Your mother uses the money she makes on O—F—s to purchase gifts for you. Good luck.” News of Matt Rife’s alleged arrest following this incident has since been circulating online.
Born in Columbus, Ohio, Rife grew up in North Lewisburg, Ohio, and also lived in Mount Vernon and New Albany. Rife’s interest in comedy sparked at the age of 14 when his school was hosting a talent show. Encouraged by a friend, he performed at the show and started his professional stint a year later. Rife, who has four siblings, lost his father to suicide when he was just 17 months old.
Currently residing in Los Angeles, California, Rife had a brief relationship with English actress Kate Beckinsale in 2017 and 2018. He openly spoke about his struggles with anxiety and mental depression in his comedy show ‘Only Fans’ (2021). Rife cites Ricky Gervais and Dave Chappelle as his major comedic influences and draws inspiration from actors like Adam Sandler, Jim Carrey, Jim Varney, David Spade, and Robin Williams.
