Taylor Tomlinson Confronts Religious Trauma in 'Prodigal Daughter'

Comedian Taylor Tomlinson's new Netflix special, 'Prodigal Daughter,' filmed in a Grand Rapids, Michigan church, premieres February 24th. This special sees Tomlinson literally and thematically returning to church, exploring her journey with religious trauma. The humor stems from her evolved perspective on faith, rather than critiquing Christianity. Tomlinson views this show as a culmination of her growth, feeling it represents her 'final form' as a comedian and former Christian now identifying as agnostic.

Tomlinson began her comedy career at 16, taking a stand-up class with her father. She initially performed in churches, a clean comedy circuit distinct from the mainstream clubs she later frequented. Her transition involved reconciling her secular success with her conservative Christian upbringing, including experiences with abstinence culture and growing up queer in the church. Therapy played a crucial role in processing these experiences, allowing her to translate past traumas into comedic material.

'Prodigal Daughter' openly discusses themes such as her mother's death at age eight and the confusing religious responses she received. It also touches on her journey of self-discovery, including embracing her queerness and being diagnosed as bipolar. Tomlinson discusses the importance of processing these deeply personal experiences to a point of maturity before sharing them comedically, ensuring honesty and relatability for her audience.