Former NFL star Shawne Merriman lauds Netflix for allowing unfiltered comedy in "Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady," applauding its departure from prevalent censorship practices.
Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman heaped praise upon Netflix for its groundbreaking "Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady," hailing it as a triumph over censorship and a refreshing return to unfettered comedy.
"I give nothing but big ups and a tremendous amount of respect to Netflix," Merriman told Fox News Digital. "In today's society where everything is so censored... For them to clear this and let this happen live, I think they broke the mold on censorship."
Merriman, known for his hard-hitting play on the field, was particularly impressed by the sharp jokes hurled towards Brady, who endured ribbing about his divorce from Gisele Bündchen, his breakup with Bridget Moynahan, and his involvement in the crypto debacle.
"To be at that level, to open yourself up, you just show a different level of humility," Merriman said. "It's life, man. It was so refreshing to see somebody of his caliber sit back and get decked on by everybody."
The roast, which aired on Netflix on Sunday, featured an A-list lineup of comedians, including Robert Kraft, Bill Belichick, Rob Gronkowski, and Dana White. Their barbs ranged from Brady's receding hairline to his questionable fashion choices and his infamous "Deflategate" scandal.
Merriman highlighted the significance of comedians being granted the freedom to push the boundaries of humor. "I think they broke the mold on what's OK now," he said. "It's OK for comedy. It's OK to crack jokes. Nobody was offended and it was a great time."
The former San Diego Chargers linebacker also acknowledged the rarity of such uncensored comedy in the current climate. "You got to go through so many checks and balances," Merriman explained. "For them to clear this and let this happen live, I think they broke the mold."
Merriman, who played with Brady during his tenure with the New England Patriots, was particularly impressed by the seven-time Super Bowl champion's ability to laugh at himself. "I think he GOAT'd himself on and off the field," Merriman said.
The roast, which received rave reviews from critics and viewers alike, has been hailed as a watershed moment for comedy, signaling a potential shift away from the rampant censorship that has permeated society in recent years.
Netflix's willingness to embrace unfiltered humor stands as a testament to the enduring power of free speech and the belief that laughter, even at the expense of the mighty, can serve as a unifying and cathartic force.
