Nate Bargatze Opens Up About Faith, Family, and Sober Journey

Nate Bargatze, a name synonymous with clean, observational comedy that has captivated audiences nationwide, is stepping into the spotlight to discuss the bedrock of his life and career: his Christian faith, his family’s influence, and his commitment to sobriety. In a recent interview with Esquire, the Nashville native delved into how his faith shapes his daily life and informs his widely popular stand-up material. His grounded perspective and family-oriented approach have resonated with a broad audience, propelling him to the top of the comedy world.

"It’s a good thing to be around. I think it makes you feel grounded," Bargatze shared with Esquire, emphasizing the importance of his faith. He also mentioned his commitment to attending church "as much as I can" when he is not on tour, underscoring the role faith plays in maintaining his center amidst the whirlwind of a successful career.

Bargatze’s comedy distinguishes itself through its accessibility and avoidance of harsh or deprecating humor, especially when addressing religion. He playfully jokes about his Christian upbringing without resorting to the cynicism or ridicule that some comics employ. One example, cited by Esquire from his Amazon Prime special "Hello, World," showcases this approach: "I had ’80s and ’90s Christian parents. Well, that’s the most Christian you can get of the Christian. I think Jesus had more fun than I did." This gentle teasing, rather than outright criticism, is characteristic of his comedic style.

His upbringing included strict rules. Bargatze was restricted from watching certain television shows, like "The Simpsons," a detail he uses to connect with audiences who may share similar experiences. He described his parents as "the most strict," highlighting the significant influence they had on his formative years and ultimately, his comedic voice.

In a 2023 interview with Fox News Digital, Bargatze further elaborated on his childhood. "I grew up that way," he said. "I come from a Christian family and Southern Christian, so I wasn’t allowed to watch anything, which I talk about in the special. And so growing up and only watching clean comedians, it was just how I was going to be. And it would feel forced if I was not." This early exposure to clean comedy cemented his path toward creating family-friendly material.

His parents’ influence extends beyond content restrictions; it has fundamentally shaped his comedic sensibility. "I still feel I will get in trouble," he confessed, when asked about the possibility of incorporating raunchier material into his act. "I’ll get in trouble and I will disappoint them. I don’t want to disappoint my parents." This deep respect and desire for their approval serve as a constant filter, guiding his writing and performance choices.

As the firstborn son, Bargatze feels an even greater sense of responsibility to honor his parents. "I just can’t imagine cursing in front of your parents," he stated. "Still, even now, I’m 43-years-old, and I still just couldn’t do that. So that’s how I write. I think I write my comedy to – a lot of it is to make my parents laugh. I want them to be proud and be like, ‘Oh, come watch my son do comedy,’ and not be offended by it. I just don’t have that in me to want to offend someone or make someone feel bad." His motivation stems from a genuine desire to create comedy that his parents can enjoy and be proud of. This approach contrasts sharply with comedians who seek to push boundaries through shock value or controversial topics.

Beyond his faith and family, Bargatze also opened up about his decision to embrace sobriety in 2019. He explained to Esquire that he realized alcohol was hindering his career ambitions. "I did not have a control on it to… I would go too hard with it. But I knew, if I want to go where I want to go, this is in the way," he said. This candid admission reveals a level of self-awareness and commitment to personal growth. His decision to prioritize his career and overall well-being demonstrates his disciplined approach to achieving success.

Bargatze’s journey to the top of the comedy charts is marked by a commitment to his values. He is proving that success in entertainment does not require compromising one’s personal beliefs or alienating audiences. His brand of humor is accessible, relatable, and, most importantly, clean.

Nate Bargatze’s ascent to the top of the comedy world is a testament to the power of authenticity. By staying true to his values and creating comedy that resonates with a broad audience, he has carved a unique niche for himself in an industry often characterized by edgy and provocative material. His dedication to his faith, family, and sobriety provides a solid foundation for his continued success.