Temecula Native Taylor Tomlinson Returns in Netflix Comedy Special

Comedian's 'Prodigal Daughter' tackles her conservative roots and LGBTQ identity.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Comedian Taylor Tomlinson, a Temecula native, is set to release her fourth Netflix comedy special titled "Prodigal Daughter" on February 24. The special, filmed at a church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, explores Tomlinson's journey as a former Christian and openly queer woman, sharing stories about processing religious trauma, exploring her sexuality, and confronting personal fears.

Why it matters

Tomlinson's comedy special provides a platform for her to openly discuss her experiences growing up in a conservative environment and coming to terms with her LGBTQ identity. Her return to a church setting in the special symbolizes her personal growth and willingness to confront her past.

The details

Tomlinson, who attended Temecula Valley High School and studied drama under Derek Heid, began her career performing on church stages before reaching a national audience at age 25. In "Prodigal Daughter," she pokes fun at her religious upbringing, sharing stories about Bible tales like the persecution of Job and Noah's Ark, while also exploring her own experiences. The special is executive-produced by Tomlinson, Judi Marmel, Rachel Warden, and John Bravakis.

  • Tomlinson's fourth Netflix comedy special, "Prodigal Daughter," is set to premiere on February 24, 2026.
  • Tomlinson began her comedy career performing on church stages before reaching a national audience at age 25.

The players

Taylor Tomlinson

A comedian from Temecula, California, who is set to release her fourth Netflix comedy special, "Prodigal Daughter," on February 24, 2026.

Derek Heid

The drama teacher at Temecula Valley High School who recognized Tomlinson's talent and intuitive perception of people.

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What they’re saying

“What I love about this special is I feel like it is kind of me in my final form, and that is not something I have ever felt. This special, I feel, knows what it is and what it wants to say.”

— Taylor Tomlinson (Rolling Stone)

“They call it testimony, but I was getting laughs.”

— Taylor Tomlinson (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

Tomlinson's "Prodigal Daughter" comedy special is set to premiere on Netflix on February 24, 2026.

The takeaway

Taylor Tomlinson's "Prodigal Daughter" comedy special represents her personal growth and willingness to confront her conservative upbringing and LGBTQ identity. Her return to a church setting in the special symbolizes her journey and the importance of providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the comedy industry.