KINGSTON, Jamaica — Comedian Dufton ‘Duffy’ Shepherd is passionate about the power of comedy to challenge societal norms and spark positive change. In a landscape often dominated by entertainment that simply seeks to amuse, Shepherd believes that Jamaican comedians are uniquely positioned to use humor as a tool for social transformation.
“Comedy is evolving in Jamaica. What was once seen as just entertainment has now become a potent vehicle for social commentary. Comedians today are not just funny; they are educators, challengers of the status quo, and agents of change,” Shepherd says.
Many people mistakenly view comedy as trivial or even frivolous, assuming that its lighthearted nature doesn’t lend itself to tackling serious social issues. But Shepherd disagrees, arguing that humor offers a powerful means of communicating hard truths and provoking thought.
“Comedy doesn’t just entertain; it opens eyes. It creates a space where uncomfortable topics can be discussed freely, and where attitudes can shift,” he explains.
With the international rise of comedians like Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps, Shuler King, and Comedian Trixx performing in Jamaica, the country’s comedy scene has seen a boom. Shepherd notes that this influx of international acts highlights the growing appeal of local comedy, which is now a flourishing industry both in Jamaica and abroad. From corporate events to viral videos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, comedy has evolved into a lucrative and influential force.
“Comedy is now integrated into corporate functions, and brands are keen to partner with comedians to reach a broader audience. It’s no longer just about laughs — it’s about impact,” Shepherd says.
He points out that the younger generation, in particular, has embraced the genre, making comedy not only a source of entertainment but also a career path. With comedians becoming household names, local humorists now have opportunities to diversify their roles, from hosting radio and TV shows to becoming entrepreneurs and even consultants.
Shepherd himself exemplifies this evolution. A graduate of Wolmer’s High School for Boys, Shepherd spent a decade working in the corporate world before taking a leap into comedy full-time. Over the course of his career, he has earned recognition as a sought-after host for live events, brand ambassador, and even a motivational speaker.
“Comedy has given me the chance to inspire and entertain in ways I never imagined. I’ve also been able to bring people together and push them to think critically about their circumstances,” he reflects.
One of the most significant changes in the comedy scene has been the rise of social media, which Shepherd believes has amplified the role of comedy in advocating for social justice and addressing generational poverty.
“The ability to produce and share content online means that today’s comedians have more influence than ever before. They’re not just telling jokes; they’re making statements, raising awareness, and even mobilizing action on important issues,” Shepherd states.
From hard-hitting satirical sketches to viral social media challenges, contemporary comedians are leveraging the digital era to reach and engage a global audience. Shepherd credits comedians like Dr. Michael Abrahams, who uses humor to write about pressing social topics, as an example of how comedy can drive change in a meaningful way.
“It’s not just about making people laugh anymore. It’s about making them think, feel, and act,” he adds.
Shepherd also highlights that comedy is an inclusive art form, attracting new voices from diverse backgrounds. He stresses that the genre is welcoming to all, regardless of gender, age, or socioeconomic background.
“Comedy is for everyone. You don’t have to fit a mold to be a successful comedian. The industry today is driven by talent, passion, and the desire to connect with people. It’s a business now, and comedians are respected as professionals,” he says.
For Shepherd, comedy is more than just a career; it’s a lifelong passion that continues to evolve. His monthly show, Slightly Unhinged, which he hosts at 22 Barbican Road in St. Andrew, has become a staple in Jamaica’s comedy scene, featuring top local comedians such as Dahlia Harris, Ity Ellis, and Curly Roberts.
“Each show is an opportunity to connect with my audience on a deep, personal level. Comedy, for me, is all about presence — being in the moment with the crowd, feeling their energy, and responding to it in a way that makes them feel seen and heard,” Shepherd concludes.
