From Satire to Structures: Leslie Jones Takes on Home Design
Known for her explosive energy and razor-sharp wit, Leslie Jones is venturing into a new kind of comedy. While she has spent years mastering the art of the roast on the big and small screens, her latest project proves that sometimes, the best targets aren’t people—they’re poorly designed vacation rentals.
In her new HGTV series, Roast My Rental, Jones brings her signature honesty to the world of short-term rentals. But there is a twist: she isn’t just there to critique. Along with designer Jasmine Roth, the show turns architectural nightmares into dream stays in a race against the clock.
Why Houses are Easier to Roast Than Humans
During a recent appearance on Obsessed: The Podcast, Jones revealed a surprising shift in her comedic philosophy. She admitted that roasting rental properties feels more natural and less personal than targeting individuals.
“It is easier to roast the rentals than roast the people,” Jones explained. “In roasting the rental, I kind of roast the people, but they understand where it’s coming from.” This approach allows her to maintain her edge while keeping the vibe positive and constructive.
Interestingly, this trend started during the pandemic. Jones found a particular joy in critiquing the chaotic Zoom backgrounds of her colleagues and friends, realizing that mocking a setting is often more satisfying—and kinder—than mocking a person.
The Formula Behind ‘Roast My Rental’
The show follows a high-stakes format that blends comedy with home improvement:
- The Critique: Leslie Jones visits an atrocious short-term rental and delivers a brutally honest review.
- The Challenge: Designer Jasmine Roth and her team are tasked with a complete overhaul.
- The Deadline: The team has only 72 hours to renovate the property into something livable and stylish.
You can currently stream Roast My Rental on HBO Max, where the laughs are as big as the renovations.
A Legacy of Laughter: From SNL to the Stage
Leslie Jones is no stranger to critical acclaim. Her career skyrocketed during her tenure as a cast member and writer for Saturday Night Live (SNL) from 2014 to 2019, earning her two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Beyond the sketch comedy world, she showcased her cinematic timing in the 2016 reboot of Ghostbusters, alongside comedy powerhouses like Melissa McCarthy and Kate McKinnon. This versatility is exactly what makes her the perfect fit for a hybrid comedy-renovation show.
The Evolution of the ‘Roast’
Not all roasts are created equal. When asked about the controversial Roast of Kevin Hart on Netflix, Jones made it clear that she avoids “mean-spirited” comedy. Contrasting modern roasts with the legendary Dean Martin style, she noted that older roasts were rooted in friendship and mutual laughter.
“These roasts now are just mean,” Jones remarked, emphasizing that her goal is always to make the subject laugh along with the audience. For her, if the humor doesn’t come from a place of love or shared absurdity, it’s not worth doing.
Where to Find Leslie Jones Now
If you’re looking for more of her brilliance, here are the best ways to keep up:
- Watch: Roast My Rental streaming on HBO Max.
- Live: Grab tickets for her “I’m Hot” stand-up tour via her official website.
- Listen: Catch her interviews on Obsessed: The Podcast.
