Matt Rife Delivers Raunchy Holiday Cheer with Surprise Star-Studded Promo

Comedian Matt Rife has a new Netflix special for the holidays. “Matt Rife: Unwrapped — A Christmas Crowd Work Special” premiered globally on December 2. The special was filmed in Phoenix, Arizona, and directed by his friend Erik Griffin.

The launch was promoted with a surprise video featuring Macaulay Culkin and Charlie Sheen. According to The Hollywood Reporter, this marked the first time the two veteran actors had ever met. Rife organized the collaboration through direct outreach just days before filming.

Behind the Scenes of an Unlikely Hollywood Pairing

Rife explained how the unique promo came together. He contacted Culkin through professional channels, pitching a fun, holiday-themed idea. The Home Alone star agreed immediately to participate in the project.

For the other role, Rife had a lucky break. Charlie Sheen had recently followed him on Instagram. After a direct message exchange, the two planned a lunch in Los Angeles. Rife then asked Sheen to join the shoot, and he quickly agreed.

The comedian was impressed by their professional demeanor on set. He noted how both actors effortlessly switched into performance mode. Their collaborative spirit made the filming process smooth and enjoyable.

Expanding a Comedy Career into New Acting Horizons

The Christmas special continues Rife’s popular crowd work format. He interacts with the Arizona audience about holiday traditions and gifts. The material balances festive themes with his signature risqué humor.

Beyond stand-up, Rife is actively pursuing acting roles. He recently finished filming The Altruists for Netflix. In the drama, he plays a trader involved with the FTX scandal opposite Julia Garner.

He is also co-writing a comedy film titled The Chasm. The project is a mockumentary-style take on the climbing world. Rife aims to film it in the coming year.

The new special solidifies Matt Rife’s unique place in comedy. His blend of crowd work and holiday humor offers a decidedly adult take on Christmas cheer. With major acting projects lined up, his reach is extending far beyond the stand-up stage.

Info at your fingertips

What is Matt Rife’s new Netflix special about?

It is a Christmas-themed crowd work special titled *Matt Rife: Unwrapped*. The comedian interacts with a live audience in Phoenix about holiday topics. The material includes festive and adult-oriented humor.

Who is in the promotional video for the special?

The promo features Macaulay Culkin and Charlie Sheen. Rife brought them together for a short, funny holiday sketch. This was reportedly the first time the two actors had ever met.

What other projects does Matt Rife have coming up?

He will appear in the Netflix drama *The Altruists* about the FTX scandal. He is also co-writing a comedy film called *The Chasm*. Both projects are scheduled for 2026.

Where was the Christmas special filmed?

The special was taped at a live show in Phoenix, Arizona. Director Erik Griffin, a fellow comedian, helmed the production. The setting allowed for spontaneous crowd interactions.