Comedian Bert Kreischer has opened up about how online criticism has deeply affected him, admitting during a recent podcast appearance that negative comments once consumed him. The candid confession came during an episode of “Two Bears, One Cave” with musician Marcus King, where Kreischer revealed the emotional toll of being one of comedy’s most polarizing figures.
“I should check the comments on this episode. Be shocked how many people hate me,” Kreischer told King. “You know that really for a period of time that really affected me.”
The comedian, known for his shirtless performances and party-heavy persona, explained that his entire career was built on seeking approval. “My only goal was to get approval. That’s why I got into standup—I could tell if they liked it.”
Kreischer recalled specific comments that still haunt him, including one from his club days that read: “This guy sucks. All he does is take his shirt off, get drunk as f**k and tell one story.” While he initially tried to dismiss it, the criticism clearly left a mark. “I was like, ‘Yeah, technically. But I was like, ‘But I clearly I do more than that.'”
The comedian’s vulnerability revealed a darker side to internet fame. He admitted to struggling with understanding why people create negative content about him, saying, “I would love for someone to explain why hate is fun.” Kreischer confessed he can’t even watch critical videos about his friends, let alone himself, though some friends find them hilarious and send them his way anyway.
Despite his emotional honesty, the podcast also highlighted behaviors that may have contributed to his controversial reputation. During the conversation with King, a recovering alcoholic, Kreischer spent considerable time discussing his love of drinking and past d**g use, appearing tone-deaf to his guest’s sobriety journey. He even admitted to previously drinking with King before the musician fully committed to sobriety, dismissing criticism by saying, “I don’t give a f**k.”
Kreischer’s declining viewership numbers suggest the backlash may be impacting his career. Recent episodes of “Two Bears, One Cave” have seen dramatically reduced views compared to previous years, signaling a potential shift in audience appetite for his brand of comedy.