KevOnStage Pays Creators Above Hollywood Standard

In an industry often criticized for undervaluing talent, comedian Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredrick is making a conscious effort to do things differently. He’s setting a new benchmark for how creators are compensated, particularly within the stand-up comedy scene, by paying them significantly more than the traditional Hollywood standard.

Challenging the Status Quo in Comedy

Fredrick recently shared his perspective on the “Funky Friday Podcast” with Cam Newton, highlighting the notoriously low pay rates for stand-up comedians. He pointed out that in Los Angeles, performers often receive meager sums like $25 to $50, or even just a drink ticket, for their sets at well-known venues like the Laugh Factory, Comedy Store, and The Improv.

While these venues historically offered the allure of discovery by agents or studio executives, Fredrick argues that the landscape has shifted, especially post-pandemic. He noted that agents are now more likely to discover talent through online clips rather than in person, yet the compensation hasn’t kept pace with this evolution.

A Commitment to Fair Pay with ‘Keep Your Distance’

This is precisely why Fredrick committed to doing better with his own stand-up show, “Keep Your Distance.” He vowed to pay his featured comedians $500 per person, a figure far exceeding the typical rates. He explained that even though SAG-recommended rates might be lower based on his budget, he felt a moral obligation to offer more.

“Doing the right thing as often as possible is just important to me,” Fredrick stated on the podcast. “Even if nobody else is doing it, even if you can charge that, even if I can pay you this, I sleep better at night knowing I did right by people.” This commitment to ethical compensation is a core principle for him.

Comedians Affirm Fredrick’s Generosity

The impact of Fredrick’s approach has been widely affirmed by the comedians who have worked with him. Testimonials shared on Instagram reveal that Fredrick often paid even more than his promised $500, including performance fees, ticket sales, compensation for promotional work, and even bonuses. One comedian described Fredrick’s support during the pandemic as a “PPP Loan.”

Comedians like Trey Elliot and Mel Mitchel have expressed profound gratitude, with Elliot even mistaking a residual payment for an accidental overpayment. Mitchel stated that “Keep Your Distance” “literally changed my life.” This demonstrates the significant positive impact Fredrick’s fair pay practices have had on the careers and livelihoods of fellow artists.