Digital Cover Story: Shuler King: Balancing Comedy, Funeral Directing, and Finding Humor in Mortality

Shuler King, a multi-talented comedian, licensed funeral director, and viral sensation, is currently captivating audiences across the nation with his Your Favorite Undertaker Tour. Known for blending humor with his unconventional background in funeral directing, Shuler has carved a unique space in the comedy world. Now, he’s taking his exploration of humor and mortality even further with his newly launched podcast, To Laugh at Death, where he dives into deep, thought-provoking conversations with comedians and celebrities, highlighting the light moments even in life’s darkest times.

The Intersection of Comedy and Mortality

Having grown up in his family’s funeral business and earned his license as a funeral director and embalmer, Shuler’s life has always been intertwined with death. Yet, he’s spent more than two decades honing his comedic craft, making it feel natural for him to combine these two seemingly opposite worlds. “Comedy and death is my life,” Shuler says, explaining how his dual careers have come together. “It feels natural.”

This balance is also at the heart of his podcast, To Laugh at Death. Shuler doesn’t shy away from the serious subject of mortality but uses humor to bring a fresh perspective. “Comedy is tragedy plus timing,” he says. “In the midst of death, there’s always something funny going on. From my experience, that’s how God works the most when you’re grieving—He places laughter around you to help you get through.” Shuler’s podcast does just that: it highlights the humor in life’s most challenging moments, offering comfort and laughter to listeners.

Comedy from a Funeral Director’s Perspective

Shuler’s unique background gives him a comedic perspective unlike any other. “Being a funeral director has allowed me to bring an extremely unique viewpoint on stage,” he explains. “People are always intrigued when they find out I’m both a comedian and a funeral director. It transcends all communities because we all deal with death.”

His ability to find humor in even the most somber situations has resonated with audiences far and wide, making his comedy both relatable and refreshing. This distinctive approach has helped him stand out in the competitive world of comedy.

Going Viral and Staying Grounded

With over 2 million followers on social media, Shuler reaches a vast audience daily, thanks to his viral videos and relatable content. Social media has played a huge role in shaping his career as a comedian, allowing him to gain widespread recognition. “If it wasn’t for social media, I don’t think I’d be as popular as I am,” he admits. “I started doing comedy in 2004, and back then, social media wasn’t what it is today. I was traveling, doing open mics, but once I started going viral, it was life-changing.”

However, Shuler remains grateful for his early experiences. “The fact that I spent so many years developing my talent has given me the ability to sustain my success.”

Despite his hectic schedule—balancing stand-up, a family, and a funeral business—Shuler stays grounded, crediting his family and faith for keeping him focused. “Especially my wife,” he adds. “She helps me keep up with everything—appointments, the kids, everything. She’s the real star.”

What’s Next for Shuler King?

Shuler’s career shows no signs of slowing down. In addition to continuing his stand-up tour, he’s also preparing to release his latest stand-up special, I Know I’m Late But Whatever. Fans can also look forward to seeing him on the big and small screens, as he has plans to venture into movies and television.

Beyond entertainment, Shuler is also involved in business ventures, including an exciting new partnership with Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. “My business partner and I are opening five locations in South Carolina,” he reveals.

Whether he’s bringing laughter to audiences with his stand-up, offering comfort with his podcast, or running a successful funeral business, Shuler King continues to prove that humor can help us navigate even life’s toughest moments.