Some students are asking why this year's Gator Growl comedian doesn't garner the same recognition as past performers.
Jon Reep, the self-proclaimed hillbilly who won the fifth season of NBC's "Last Comic Standing," is known to some students for his stint in a Dodge campaign where he posed the question, "That thing got a Hemi?" To many students, however, his name is unfamiliar.
"I have not heard of Jon Reep, so I'm not really excited," said Christina Acevedo, UF sociology senior. "I have no intention of going to Gator Growl."
Michael Jordan, Gator Growl producer, said the staff purposely tried to find up-and-coming comedians for the Oct. 24 event. Jordan said while Reep doesn't have a name as recognizable as Dane Cook or Dave Chappelle, past Growl comedians, those performers were just starting out when they came to the Swamp too.
Jordan also said the Growl staff strives to find cheaper comedians to keep ticket prices down. Reep will be paid $25,000.
Rock Charles, UF sociology junior, said he isn't sure what to expect of Reep's comedic style, but he is "definitely willing to give him a try."
Jordan, who has seen Reep live, encouraged students to hold off on making judgments.
"People may not know his name yet, but after he comes to Gator Growl, they will," he said. "They will know Jon Reep."
