SiriusXM Says Raw Comedy Shutdown Preceded Maniscalco Deal, Vows Comic Support
SiriusXM has issued a new statement amid backlash over ending its Raw Dog Comedy channel. A spokesperson said the decision was based on the channel's poor performance and was made before Sebastian Maniscalco joined the platform. The company added that it remains committed to supporting comedians throughout their careers on SiriusXM and Maniscalco's Comedy Radio.
SiriusXM told Deadline that it ended Raw Comedy because the channel was not performing well, and that this call was made before Sebastian Maniscalco joined the company. The statement follows a week of online criticism from comedians. A related report says comics have asked Maniscalco and SiriusXM to restore airtime for working-class comedians after the Raw Dog rebrand.
SiriusXM also said it has supported comedy for more than two decades and remains focused on giving comedians at all career stages a platform, including on Maniscalco's Comedy Radio. The company framed the broader difficulties facing working comics as larger than any single decision.
The dispute could affect comedians who rely on satellite radio for exposure and income, especially less-established or working-class performers. Fans may see changes in where they discover new comedy. If SiriusXM and Maniscalco respond to the backlash, it may shape how streaming and audio platforms handle talent transitions and community concerns. Conversely, if critics remain unsatisfied, trust between comics and platforms may erode.