Ramy Youssef on Comedy, Culture, and Creating an Animated Show that Tackles 9/11

Ramy Youssef is a comedian and creator known for his thoughtful and groundbreaking work in comedy. Recently, he appeared on The Problem with Jon Stewart to discuss his latest project: an animated series that reimagines the experience of a Muslim-American family in the aftermath of 9/11. The conversation between Ramy and Jon Stewart offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind the show, the cultural and political moments it explores, and Ramy’s unique perspective on comedy and identity.

The Animated Series: A Bold, New Narrative

At first glance, animation and 9/11 might seem like an unusual pairing. But Ramy explains that animation provides a powerful storytelling tool, allowing creators to blend humor and tragedy in ways live action might not. The series captures a pivotal moment in American history, portraying the complex feelings of a Muslim immigrant family during a time of national trauma and suspicion.

Ramy revealed that the show began development years ago — during what they jokingly called “Trump one” — and now, its release coincides with another volatile political era. He and Jon Stewart noted the strange historical parallels and the persistent challenges immigrants face in America, emphasizing the family’s desire to assert themselves as the “#1 Happy Family USA” even amid rising tensions.

The show uses quick jokes, layered narratives, and detailed animated moments to bring depth to characters and settings. For example, one memorable scene features a pool party where a blond kid with floaties dances alone — a subtle nod to childhood innocence amidst chaos. Another recurring detail is the grandmother dragging her TV everywhere, a playful but poignant metaphor for cultural ties and escapism.

Humor as a Lens on Identity and Politics

Ramy and Jon Stewart’s exchange about the former president’s demeanor highlights the show’s nuanced approach to politics and identity. They discuss how even controversial figures can appear human when viewed through a different lens — stressed, insecure, and perhaps lonely. This conversation segues into larger themes the show touches on: identity, media representation, and the complicated relationship between the U.S. government and immigrant communities.

A standout aspect of the discussion was Ramy’s reflections on Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. He noted the linguistic framing of “phobia” makes Islamophobia sound almost trivial, like a simple fear or allergy, while anti-Semitism is perceived as something more insidious. This observation points to the challenges minorities face in public discourse — challenges his show confronts with humor and honesty.

Personal Experiences Fuel the Storytelling

The show’s father figure, a halal cart vendor near the Fox News building, is drawn from Ramy’s personal experiences growing up. Ramy describes watching the news ticker flash negative headlines about Muslim countries, while just outside, the halal cart thrived, serving the very people who were often vilified in the media. This juxtaposition encapsulates the contradictions many immigrants navigate daily.

Ramy also shared insights about his musical background and how music influences the show. Writing songs for the series adds another layer to the storytelling, blending humor, culture, and emotion. Jon Stewart’s playful suggestion that they start a band called “Kosher Halal” captures the spirit of collaboration and cultural blending the show embodies.

Navigating Social Media and Public Perception

Throughout the interview, Ramy expressed a cautious relationship with social media. He compared negative audience reactions during stand-up gigs — those few people who just aren’t feeling it — to the constant barrage of criticism online, where it’s impossible to escape detractors. Social media becomes like being trapped in a cab with people telling you “you suck.” Yet, Ramy keeps a sense of humor about it, even sharing how people sometimes mistakenly call him a Jew online, a nod to stereotypes about show business.

Ramy’s sparing use of social media contrasts with many modern entertainers who engage heavily online. He prefers direct human connection, valuing the energy of live rooms and in-person interactions. This approach reflects a desire to focus on the craft and genuine relationships rather than the noise of digital platforms.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and Continuing the Conversation

The animated series is just one part of Ramy’s multifaceted career. He mentioned an upcoming film called Mountainhead, written by Jesse Armstrong (Succession), which features notable actors like Steve Carell. Ramy’s growing repertoire as an actor, writer, and musician showcases his versatility and commitment to storytelling across mediums.

His conversation with Jon Stewart was peppered with laughter, sharp observations, and thoughtful critiques. It demonstrated how comedy can serve as a bridge — connecting diverse experiences, challenging prejudices, and offering new perspectives on difficult topics.

Conclusion

Ramy Youssef’s animated show is more than just a comedy — it’s a layered, inventive exploration of identity, history, and resilience. By choosing animation, Ramy and his team found a way to blend humor with heartache, creating a narrative that resonates in today’s complicated world. His candid discussion with Jon Stewart sheds light on the challenges and joys of telling stories about marginalized communities, the role of humor in healing, and the power of creativity to confront social issues head-on.

As Ramy continues to evolve as an artist, his work promises to keep pushing boundaries, offering fresh insights, and inspiring audiences to laugh — and think — a little harder.

Full Video