Ben Brainard: From Engineering Student to Viral Comedian
Ben Brainard, born on January 25, 1996, in Ormond Beach, Florida, is an American stand-up comedian and social media personality known for his satirical sketches and observational humor. Initially pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering with minors in physics and computer-aided design at Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University, Brainard shifted paths, joining the U.S. Army Reserve and later venturing into comedy.
His comedic career began in Orlando in 2017, performing at local venues such as the Drunken Monkey. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led him to explore digital platforms, where he gained significant attention on TikTok with his series “The Table.” In this series, Brainard personifies various U.S. states engaging in humorous dialogues about current events, with his portrayal of Florida—depicted as carefree and party-loving—becoming particularly popular. As of March 2024, he has amassed 2.9 million followers on TikTok and 963,000 subscribers on YouTube.
Beyond online content, Brainard continues to perform stand-up comedy across the United States, sharing anecdotes from his personal experiences, including his time in the military and his life in Florida. He has also been open about his ADHD diagnosis, using his platform to discuss mental health topics.
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