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A Comedy Powerhouse That Keeps Growing
Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee’s podcast Bad Friends has officially hit the five-year mark, and its success is undeniable. Since its debut in February 2020, the show has skyrocketed past both TigerBelly and Whiskey Ginger in total views and subscribers—despite having fewer episodes. The podcast pulls in over a million downloads a week, making it one of the most dominant forces in the comedy podcasting world.
Santino himself summed it up best, calling Bad Friends the “greatest thing that’s ever happened” in his career. That’s a huge statement, considering both comedians have decades of experience in stand-up, TV, and film.
The Pandemic Boost That Led to Longevity
Bad Friends was one of many comedy podcasts that found an audience during the pandemic, when millions were stuck at home and looking for entertainment. At the time, the podcasting boom led to an explosion of new shows, many featuring comics who couldn’t tour and had to find new ways to engage fans.
Five years later, some of those pandemic-era podcasts have faded, while others—like Bad Friends—continue to grow. The show’s chemistry, consistency, and high-quality production have kept it fresh, even as the comedy podcast space becomes more competitive.
Why Bad Friends Stands Out
The biggest reason for the show’s continued success is the relationship between Santino and Lee. Their natural banter, relentless roasting, and ability to push each other’s buttons create an energy that feels authentic and hilarious. Unlike other shows that rely heavily on guest appearances, Bad Friends thrives because of its hosts’ dynamic alone.
The show also keeps things visually engaging. While some podcasts still rely on basic setups, Bad Friends has embraced high-production comedy, incorporating skits, characters, and creative set pieces to elevate the experience.
A Shift in the Comedy Podcast Landscape
The comedy podcast world has changed a lot since Bad Friends started. Some shows have disappeared, others have pivoted to live content, and some are struggling to stay relevant in an era where audiences crave more interactive and polished experiences.
While there’s talk of the podcast format “falling off,” Bad Friends proves that well-produced, chemistry-driven shows can still thrive. The duo has even taken the podcast on tour, adding live shows and interactive elements to keep fans engaged.
Selective Guests and Expanding the Bad Friends Universe
Unlike many podcasts that rely on weekly guests, Bad Friends is highly selective about who joins. When they do bring in outside voices—like Chris Distefano, Stavros Halkias, or Adam Ray—it’s always a carefully chosen addition that fits their style.
They’ve also built a universe of recurring side characters, making the show feel more like an ongoing sitcom than a traditional podcast. This approach keeps longtime listeners invested while making new viewers feel like they’re stepping into an already established world.
The Future of Bad Friends
With five years in the books, Bad Friends shows no signs of slowing down. Santino and Lee remain as passionate about the show as ever, and their ability to evolve with the comedy space ensures they’ll be a dominant force for years to come.
Whether the podcast industry continues to shift or not, Bad Friends has proven that authentic chemistry, high-quality content, and a dedicated fanbase are a winning formula.