Comedian Corey Holcomb Blames TMZ for Career Setback Following Assault Video
Comedian Corey Holcomb is attributing a downturn in his career to TMZ, following the publication of surveillance footage appearing to show him assaulting fellow comedian Cristina Payne. Holcomb claims the media outlet’s reporting has led to canceled gigs and financial hardship.
“I lost a lot of my gigs, by the way, thank you, TMZ,” Holcomb said on a recent episode of his 5150 podcast. “I lost another gig today…Y’all got me good, TMZ. I’m ’bout to be out here on welfare.”
The statement, shared widely online, drew significant backlash, with many criticizing Holcomb for failing to take responsibility for his actions. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote, “The epitome of a f—g loser is Corey Holcomb. No accountability at all!”
Another X user posted, “Corey Holcomb crying because he’s losing gigs for hitting a woman on video, and he’s STILL not taking accountability.” A third likened Holcomb’s behavior to that of a bully, stating, “Corey Holcomb is coming across like that bully you went to highschool with, that never grew up.”
The controversy stems from an incident that reportedly occurred in late 2024 in front of the Hollywood Improv. TMZ initially broke the story in November 2024, but at that time, no video footage was available. The footage eventually surfaced last month, shared by an Instagram account named The Bizi, and quickly spread across social media platforms.
According to reports, Holcomb and Payne had been engaged in a pre-existing feud before the altercation. The video shows what appears to be a heated exchange between the two comedians, surrounded by onlookers.
Holcomb initially denied allegations of assault when rumors began circulating earlier this year. However, the release of the surveillance footage prompted a swift shift in public opinion. He now asserts that TMZ not only reported the story but actively damaged his professional life.
The incident has sparked renewed conversations about accountability within the entertainment industry and the role of media outlets in reporting on alleged misconduct. The question remains, as one observer put it, whether the media ruined Holcomb’s life or simply revealed a moment that could no longer be ignored.
Cristina Payne has publicly stated that she fears for her safety, alleging that Holcomb possessed a firearm prior to the alleged assault. Payne shared her concerns in an emotional reaction video posted in January 2026, according to TMZ.
Corey Lamont Holcomb has built a career on what he describes as “raw honesty,” often tackling sensitive topics such as relationships and gender roles in his comedy. He has been known to refer to himself as the “Ghetto Dr. Phil,” suggesting a willingness to dissect uncomfortable truths. His brand of humor has not always been universally accepted, but he has cultivated a reputation for fearless storytelling.
