When YouTube launched on February 14, 2005, nobody predicted it would become the world's largest comedy stage. Within months, comedians were uploading clips that reached millions of viewers — more than any TV appearance could deliver. Bo Burnham was discovered on YouTube at 16. Lilly Singh built a comedy empire. The platform democratized comedy: you no longer needed a club, an agent, or a network. You just needed a camera and something funny to say.