He just won two Emmys, including one for his comedy special that was only distributed online. CK could be permanently altering the dynamic between TV and comedians and television:
The quick [$1 million] success of [Louis CK's new] distribution model inspired comedians Aziz Ansari and Jim Gaffigan to independently release digital downloads of their own stand up specials at the same $5 price. Ansari said he decided to use the Louis CK model for his Dangerously Delicious special because it allowed him to sell his performance as it would be performed live, without bleeps and commercial breaks. A month after Ansari, Gaffigan released his Mr Universe special on the web. Gaffigan told the Hollywood Reporter that censorship attracted him to the distribution model as well. Gaffigan calls himself a "clean comedian" but said he was censored on jokes about subjects as mundane as bran because they could upset television advertisers.
Louis CK's special was eligible for the Emmy because FX – the network that broadcasts his Emmy award-winning show Louis – aired it six months after the online release. The comedian called the televised airing of his special "a commercial, sort of, for the site."
The above interview is from June. Previous Dish on CK's approach to the entertainment business here, here, here and here.
The Dish 