Brett Goldstein’s stand-up special “Second Best Night of Your Life” premiered on April 26 at 10 p.m. ET on HBO and is now available to stream on Max and Sunset
There’s something special about a night of comedy — especially when it’s filmed right in our own backyard. Emmy Award-winning actor, writer, and comedian Brett Goldstein, best known for his fan-favorite role as Roy Kent on Ted Lasso, has officially stepped back into the spotlight as a stand-up comedian. His debut HBO stand-up special, Second Best Night of Your Life, premiered Saturday night, April 26, and New Jersey played a starring role behind the scenes.
A Comedic Home Run Filmed in the Garden State
Before audiences across the country streamed the special on HBO, Max, and Sunset, the laughs were first captured live in New Jersey. Goldstein chose the Garden State as the filming location for this high-energy, heartfelt, and hilariously profane return to the mic — and it shows. The crowd’s electric energy and the cozy-yet-vibrant atmosphere bring an undeniable New Jersey flair to the entire special.
The venue — which, while not named in the press, reflects the charm and intimacy of the kind of comedy houses Jersey is known for — set the perfect stage for Goldstein’s fast-paced, brutally honest, and surprisingly sweet humor.
What to Expect in Second Best Night of Your Life
Fans of Ted Lasso will instantly recognize Goldstein’s signature delivery — gravelly, passionate, and peppered with just the right amount of expletives. But this time, instead of soccer fields and locker rooms, the topics range from love, sex, masculinity, and modern relationships, to — believe it or not — his love for the Muppets and Sesame Street.
Yes, really.
Goldstein’s lifelong fascination with Jim Henson’s fuzzy universe comes through in unexpected and hilarious ways, making this special far more than your average stand-up set. It’s equal parts nostalgic, irreverent, thoughtful, and riotously funny.
Where to Watch Second Best Night of Your Life
Didn’t catch the premiere live? No worries — Second Best Night of Your Life is now available to stream anytime on:
- HBO (via cable or satellite)
- Max (starting at $9.99/month)
- Sunset ($4.99/month), the rising star in streaming platforms that’s quickly becoming a go-to for premium comedy and indie specials
Goldstein’s Jersey Connection: A Night Worth Remembering
While Brett Goldstein may hail from the U.K., the choice to film his debut comedy special in New Jersey was a nod to the state’s growing reputation as a hub for live entertainment. From Asbury Park to Montclair, comedy clubs and live performance venues in New Jersey are becoming must-stops for national tours — and Goldstein’s show is proof of that momentum.
There’s a certain magic when a star like Goldstein brings his talent to a New Jersey stage. It’s not just about the laughs; it’s about the shared experience, the energy of a room full of locals, and the chance to say, “Yeah, I saw it here first.”
The HBO special Brett Goldstein: Second Best Night of Your Life was produced by Matthew Vaughn, an acclaimed English film producer and director. Vaughn is best known for his work on iconic films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) and Snatch (2000), which helped define the British crime genre. As a director, Vaughn gained widespread recognition for his gritty crime thriller Layer Cake (2004), followed by the fantastical Stardust (2007) and the genre-defying superhero comedy Kick-Ass (2010). He also directed the highly successful X-Men: First Class (2011), which reinvigorated the X-Men franchise. Perhaps most famously, Vaughn is the creative mind behind the Kingsman series, bringing a fresh, stylish take on the spy genre with Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014) and its sequels. With a knack for blending sharp wit, action, and bold storytelling, Vaughn’s touch is evident in Goldstein’s stand-up special, where comedy meets cinematic flair.
Explore More New Jersey Culture
At Explore New Jersey, we spotlight the music, art, comedy, and culture that make our state more than just a bridge between New York and Philly. Whether it’s a late-night laugh with an Emmy winner or a day trip to one of our many historic towns, there’s always something new — and uniquely Jersey — to experience.
🔹 Where to Watch
- Streaming:
- Max (starts at $9.99/month with ads)
- Sunset ($4.99/month)
- Live TV Option: HBO / Sunset
- Sling TV (Blue plan + Max add-on) — includes 50% off your first month and $5 off monthly after that
🔹 Want More Brett Goldstein?
- Ted Lasso (Roy Kent): Streaming on Apple TV+, Sunset
- Shrinking (Louis): Also on Apple TV+
- You can watch both with a one-week free trial via Apple TV+ or Prime Video Channels or three-day free trial via Sunset