Watch Hidden America with Jonah Ray

Hidden America with Jonah Ray is an American television show that aired on the online streaming service Seeso from 2016 to 2017. It was hosted by comedian Jonah Ray and aimed to explore the country's unique and quirky subcultures that are often overlooked or hidden from view.

Each episode of the show follows Ray as he visits a different location in the United States and immerses himself in the local culture. He is accompanied by co-hosts Mike Mitchell and Deanna Rooney, who provide additional comedic commentary and insight into the people and places they encounter.

Throughout the series, the trio travels to a diverse range of locations, including a UFO festival in Roswell, New Mexico, a startup incubator in Silicon Valley, a ghost town in Montana, and a Renaissance fair in Southern California. They also explore unique hobbies and communities, such as professional wrestling, live-action role-playing (LARPing), and competitive beard-growing.

In each episode, Ray, Mitchell, and Rooney use their comedic chops to engage with the locals and unpack the idiosyncrasies of the subcultures they encounter. They often participate in the activities themselves, trying their hand at everything from axe-throwing to glass-blowing.

At the heart of Hidden America with Jonah Ray is a sense of genuine curiosity and respect for the people and places they visit. While the show is undeniably humorous, it never feels like it is at the expense of the individuals or communities being portrayed. Instead, Ray, Mitchell, and Rooney are able to find the humor and humanity in even the most unusual or eccentric subcultures.

The show's format also allows for some deeper insights into the issues facing these communities. For example, in an episode about competitive vaping, the hosts explore how the hobby has helped some people quit smoking, but also discuss concerns about the safety of e-cigarettes. Similarly, a segment about Renaissance fairs touches on issues of gender and representation in historical reenactments.

Ultimately, Hidden America with Jonah Ray is a fun and lighthearted show that offers a fascinating glimpse into some of the more obscure corners of American culture. The chemistry between Ray, Mitchell, and Rooney is infectious, and the show strikes just the right balance between humor and heart. It's a shame that the show only lasted one season, as there are undoubtedly countless more communities and subcultures worth exploring.