Rob Riggle Discusses Patriotism and Comedy on “The View”
Actor and comedian Rob Riggle appeared on “The View” Wednesday, sharing insights about his strong sense of patriotism and his military background in the Marine Corps. Co-host Alyssa Farrar Griffin inquired about his reasons for joining the Marines.
Riggle expressed, “I’m deeply patriotic and I think highly of this country. I love this country. We’re not perfect, and I wouldn’t claim we could find a flawless place anywhere, but what we’re doing here is important. I genuinely believe in this country.” He also mentioned that joining the Marines seemed like a good starting point for him.
During the conversation, Riggle revealed he has a flying contract with the Marine Corps. Co-host Ana Navarro noted his experience flying, mentioning a particular flight he completed. She asked him to compare the fear of performing on stage versus military service.
He recounted, “I’ve done many adventurous things in the Marine Corps. I’ve flown planes and performed barrel rolls. But when I stepped on stage for my first comedy routine, I felt incredibly vulnerable and terrified. It was a different kind of fear—a very emotional one.” Riggle compared his initial comedy performance to “a car crash.”
In a discussion with Fox News’ Eric Shawn for the series “Courage and Dedication: USMC 250,” Riggle emphasized the significance of earning the title “Marine.” He remarked, “Even if you don’t go through a recruiter, if you don’t finish boot camp, you can’t claim that title.” He noted that the transformation that comes with Marine training helps foster a “thick skin.”
Riggle described how new recruits face challenges right from the start, stating, “People get humbled quickly.” The series journeys back to the Marine Corps’ founding in Philadelphia in 1775, showcasing its transformation from an amphibious fighting force to its current identity.
The series promises a detailed look at historical battles that shaped the Marine Corps into the elite fighting force it is today, along with firsthand accounts from veterans of the Global War on Terror.
