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Willie Tyler & Lester A famous ventriloquist and his dummy, Willie Tyler and Lester have been wowing Las Vegas audiences for years. A sure hit for your entertainment event.
The Raspyni Brothers COMIC JUGGLERS Barry Friedman and Dan Holzman are the Raspyni Brothers. As one of the most sought after acts on the corporate entertainment scene, they appear annually at over 100 events across America and internationally. Since 1982 their intelligent mayhem has earned them two International Juggling Championships, multiple appearances on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson and Jay Leno, and a place in the Guiness Book of World Records. In addition to the tremendous success they enjoy in the field of corporate entertainment, these unrelated siblings also tour as an opening act for dozens of superstars such as Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Howie Mandel, Dennis Miller and Tom Jones. Other audiences have ranged from the King of Spain and the Academy Awards to the sequestered O.J. Simpson jury.
Drew Carey and the Improv All Stars The show will feature Drew Carey along with some of the regular cast members from his most recent hit television show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" - Greg Proops, Chip Esten, Sean Masterson and Jeff Davis. A native of Cleveland, Carey, 45, began his successful stand-up comedy career in 1986 at the Cleveland Comedy Club. Among his first significant breaks was competing on "Star Search" in 1988. National prominence came in 1995 when "The Drew Carey Show" premiered. Carey won the 1996 People's Choice award for "Favorite Male in a New Series"; 1998 Golden Satellite award for Best Actor in a Television Series-Comedy; 1999: TV Guide Editors' Award; and, he received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003.
Kool Bubba Ice Comedian and cast member of the Apollo Comedy Hour.
Most Brothers The Most Brothers have appeared in casinos in Atlantic City and Las Vegas. They have performed on Def Comedy Jam, The Apollo Comedy Hour and comedy venues throughout the country. The Most Brothers are America's funniest comedy team.
Cedric The Entertainer Cedric The Entertainer is best known for his crowd-pleasing roles in the recent hit films Barbershop with Ice Cube, Be Cool with John Travolta, Madagascar (animated feature, Intolerable Cruelty with George Clooney, and The Original Kings of Comedy, MTVS documentary feature directed by Spike Lee. Additionally, in April 2004, Cedric was star and producer of the box office hit Johnson Family Vacation (ranked the #1 comedy in America for two consecutive weeks). On the big screen, Cedric has also been seen in The Honeymooners in which he starred as Jackie Gleasons famed character Ralph Cramden with thumbs up from Roger Ebert, Lemony Snicket with Jim Carrey, Man of the House with Tommy Lee Jones, Barbershop 2, Big Mommas House with Martin Lawrence, Kingdom Come with Whoopi Goldberg, Serving Sara with Matthew Perry, as well as displaying tremendous vocal talent in Dr. Dolittle 2 and Ice Age. He will next star in The Cleaner opposite Lucy Liu, Mr. Lucky co starring Bruce Willis, Johnson Family Vacation 2, Flash co starring Nelly, Preachin Aint Easy and the animated feature Charlottes Web. Cedric has celebrated many career successes spanning television, live performances and film. Some notable accolades include nabbing The AFTRA Award of Excellence in Television Programming for his Fox Television series Cedric the Entertainer Presents; a record-breaking (4) consecutive NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of the lovable Coach Cedric Robinson on the WBs #1-rated The Steve Harvey Show, which ran for six seasons. His first comedy book, Grown-Ass Man, was released in January of 2002 and sold out across the country. In 2001, a viewing audience of over 144 million saw Cedric star in the Bud Light commercial that landed in the #1 spot during the Super Bowl broadcast (subsequently, USA Today dubbed him Madison Avenues Most Valuable Player. And, in 1994, Cedric received The Richard Pryor Comic of the Year Award from Black Entertainment Television for his ground-breaking work as host of Def Comedy Jam and BETs Comic View (1994-95 season). Now helming his own production company, A Bird and a Bear Entertainment, Cedric will develop and produce feature films. Johnson Family Vacation was the first feature under the new company. As a philanthropist, Cedric founded The Cedric The Entertainer Charitable Foundation, which provides scholarships and outreach programs to enhance the lives of inner-city youth and their families in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. He plans to extend the foundation nationally.
SINBAD Sinbad's name recalls the literary legend that symbolizes strength, adventure and optimism and is what he strives for. "I renamed myself Sinbad because Sinbad is bad. He could hang with rogues and with kings. He didn't have the strength of Hercules, but he could outwit anyone." Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Sinbad grew up telling jokes to his three brothers and two sisters. The image sticks; Sinbad the wild child, off-the-wall Sinbad who would do anything for attention, acting stupid, free as the wind, on unpredictable force that can't be harnessed, and always willing to pay any price, looking for laughs.
Curb Your Enthusiasm feat. Richard Lewis and Jeff Garlin in Concert
Martin Short & Second City The legendary comedy theatre The Second City, founded in Chicago in 1959, has become the premier training ground for the comedy world’s best and brightest. Its alumni list reads like a "Who’s Who" of American comedy, including Mike Myers, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Shelley Long, Joan Rivers, Robert Klein, Harold Ramis, Gilda Radner, John Candy, Chris Farley and countless others. An evening with Martin Short and The Second City will provide audiences with the chance to see comedy stars in the making with hilarious satires and cutting-edge improvisation. If your parents asked you not to speak about it at the dinner table, chances are that this group will make fun of it. Second City’s spontaneous and irreverent humor inspired "Saturday Night Live" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?".
MR. PRESIDENT The unlikely jump from pulpit to stage actually began in Bridge's childhood. A Dallas native, he moved with his family to northern California's Oakland Bay area at the tender age of three. Not many years later, his natural talent for making people laugh became apparent via his dead-on impressions of the Three Stooges (Moe, Larry, and/or Curly) done from the back seat of his parents' car. By high school, Bridges had carefully honed his uncanny characterizations to include contemporary political figures. Then, his biggest laughs came courtesy of Jimmy Carter. Today, he arguably does one of the best George W. Bush impressions anywhere. In between, he has mastered a host of other political characters (with the emphasis on characters) including Bill Clinton, AI Gore, Senators Phil Graham, Ted Kennedy, and Strom Thurmond - even the Reverend Jesse Jackson. He also has expanded his repertoire to include newsmen Tom Brokaw, Dan Rather, Geraldo Rivera, and Sam Donaldson, as well as television characters like Regis Philbin and Homer Simpson - not to mention the ever-popular Mr. Haney from Green Acres. What makes Bridges such a comic standout is his ability not only to accurately voice these and many other characters, but to instantly switch between them to create "conversations" among two or more of them at the same time. A member of SAG/AFTRA, Bridges' extensive training includes work at the famed Groundlings in Los Angeles as well as private classes with some of the best comic trainers in the business. Also to his credit, he has made numerous appearances at many of southern California's best comedy venues including The Improv, The Ice House, and The Comedy Store. Known for his hilarious - but clean - comedic routines, Bridges has appeared on many television shows including ER (NBC), TheDistrict (CBS), and ABC News Overnight (ABCNationwide). His numerous radio credits include guest appearances on KABC (Ken and Barkley Show) and K-EARTH 101 out of Los Angeles, NBC Mutual Radio (nationwide), and even the venerable BBC. He also has done commercial voice-over work for clients HBO and Coca-Cola, to name a few. A resident of Pasadena, Bridges keeps audiences laughing from coast to coast with his club, commercial, and corporate work. His future plans include adding more local and national television appearances to his ever-expanding resume.
NBCs Last Comic Standing LIVE! Last Comic Standing Live! features the stars of NBC's hit reality show "Last Comic Standing". Watch for season four of "Last Comic Standing" this summer on NBC. The hit reality show showcases today's fastest rising stars of comedy which will kick-off in September 2007.
Last Comic Standing Get Last Comic Standing stars to perform at your event. The objective of the program is to select a comedian from a group, who will receive a development contract with the NBC television network and a special first to air on the cable-TV network Comedy Central and later on the cable network Bravo.
RETTA RETTA was born to immigrant parents in what is often known as the armpit of America... Newark, New Jersey. Upon graduating from Duke University, she went into the pharmaceutical research field and soon found out that drugs were not the way to go. She left the chemistry job and moved to Los Angeles for a life in comedy. She immediately found success at the open mics and soon was showcasing at NACA conferences. During the past 5 years, RETTA has traveled to every state in the union sharing her stories about family and friends and even those not-so-happy people at the popular fast food chains. Her comedic stylings have gotten her a half hour special COMEDY CENTRAL Presents - RETTA; Premium Blend & sketch work on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno". You can also find her in such movies as "Slackers" and "Dickie Roberts-Former Child Star"
Reno 911 Reno 911! comedy television series on Comedy Central that debuted in 2003. It is a parody of law enforcement reality shows, specifically COPS, with comic actors playing the police officers. Most of the material is improvised, using a broad outline, and with minimal scripted material.The series spawned a film, Reno 911!: Miami, featuring the same cast.
The Original Kings of Comedy The Original Kings of Comedy is a 2000 stand up comedy film, directed by Spike Lee, and features the comedy routines of Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. Filmed in front of an audience in Charlotte, North Carolina, the comedians give the audience their views about African American culture, race relations, church, and families.
Stand Up for Diversity NBCs Stand Up for Diversity are holding auditions for their Fifth Annual nationwide search. A talent holding deal with NBC, an opportunity to perform at the NACA (National Association of Campus Activities) Convention, access to talent bookers from The Tonight Show , Conan, Carson Daly and Last Comic Standing and much more are up for grabs for the funniest diverse comedians in the country.
Comedy Coast-to-Coast A dazzling display of the zaniest comics since Second City and Saturday Night Live. An exclusive, tour of the hottest up and coming comedy performers from New York and L.A.'s famed showcase clubs: The Improvisation, Catch a Rising Star, The Comic Strip and The Comedy Store.
Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood An Evening with Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Following enormously successful solo tours, Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood, stars of the Emmy nominated Whose Line Is It Anyway? have teamed up to present an evening of extraordinary improvisational comedy. Using their quick wit, Colin and Brad take contributions from the audience to create hilarious and original scenes. Throughout the evening, the show becomes truly interactive as audience members are called to the stage to participate in the fun. Their high-profile presentations have played to corporations, universities and theatres all over the country.
Seth Meyers & Kenan Thompson (Saturday Night Live Package) Kenan Thompson a native of Atlanta, Georgia, Thompson made his television debut as a member of Nickelodeons allkid sketch comedy series All That. Seth Meyers returns for his fifth season on SNL. In addition to contributing to numerous sketches, Meyers appears in the recurring Jarrets Room sketch as DJ Jonathan Feinstein as well as cohosting the Irish talk show Top O The Morning as William Fitzpatrick, opposite Jimmy Fallons Patrick Fitzwilliam. He has also contributed notable impressions of Hugh Grant, Russell Crowe, Tobey Maguire, Democratic Presidential candidate John Kerry and NBC News Stone Phillips and Brian Williams.
Orny Adams Orny Adams has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with David Letterman, and co-starred in the movie Comedian with Jerry Seinfeld. Orny was named in The Hollywood Reporter as one of the favorite comedians to watch on the New York comedy scene. He has written jokes for Jay Leno and Garry Shandling, among many other top comedians. And this year he is a writer for the 56th Annual Emmys broadcast. Orny made his first TV appearance in 1996 on Friday Night Videos. He has since hosted his own show on Discovery's Travel Channel, has appeared on Jiminy Glick, Tough Crowd on Comedy Central, The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn, and Last Call With Carson Daly. Orny shot a pilot for his own late night television talk show for TBS. You may also recognize him from many of his national commercials, including Coca-Cola, and other notable television appearances. In July 2000, Orny made quite an impact at the Montreal Comedy Festival which resulted in a development deal with the Warner Brothers Studio, and his first appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman. In July of 2002, Orny triumphantly returned to the Montreal Comedy Festival. Orny considers himself a student of the art of stand-up comedy and takes his profession very seriously. He has studied his predecessors and even their predecessors. He loves to learn. For the past 12 years, he has been on a what he dubs the "Neverending Tour." His tour has reached clubs, theatres, even the Staples Center in LA, colleges, corporate events, and festivals as far away as Ireland. "The road is life… I didn't say that. Kerouac did." Orny's comedy style is unique, yet universally appealing. Orny is quick on his feet to deliver a clever, sophisticated, and fast paced routine that attacks topics from an angle that many people have never considered. "I question everything. That's the root of my comedy… and I try to come up with some solutions." One minute he's goofy, the next minute he's intelligent, and you never completely know when he's being serious. But that's what's funny. Most importantly, He was once a paperboy and a native of Boston, Massachusetts.
Dan Ahdoot After appearing on NBC's Last Comic Standing this season, Dan Ahdoot's web site was swamped with emails from around the country telling him he should've moved into the house. Dan's performed at more than 100 colleges around the country after graduating from Johns Hopkins University and is a regular performer at all the top New York City clubs. He won first place at the NYC Triad comedy competition and was an honorary guest at the HA! Comedy Festival in New York. He's been featured on ABC's 20/20 w/ Barbara Walters and on the radio has been heard on the KISS FM Morning Comedy Special. He's also performed with a number of different Improv groups such as Upright Citizens Brigrade and Second City New York.
Ted Alexandro Ted Alexandro: Don't let Ted's boyish good looks fool you. He is wickedly funny. Ted has appeared on MTV and on Late Night with Conan O'Brien.
Louie Anderson Multifaceted, Emmy award winning comedian, Louie Anderson, is well known for not only hosting the return of the game show, Family Fued, but for his countless appearances with Jay Leno, David Letterman, Arsenio Hall, Pat Sajak, Joan Rivers, on Comic Relief and on Touched by an Angel.
Michael C. Anthony Michael C. Anthony is recognized as one of the most successful stage hypnotists in the world today. Most recently he was named Campus Male Performer of the Year by Campus Activities Magazine. An every day performer he is not. His show is an avant-garde blend of the human psyche and eye-popping theater. Imagine a world where volunteers fall asleep at the snap of his finger and will obey the most hilarious and ridiculous hypnotic suggestions. Having hypnotized over 15,000 people, Michael C. Anthony has filled theaters throughout the United States and Internationally and continues to be one of the most sought after hypnotists in the world. Imagine you're sitting in the front row and several of your good friends are up on stage to volunteer for Michael C. Anthony's performance. Michael utters a few words, snaps his fingers, and you see your friends, one by one, drop to the floor sound asleep. Michael then works his "magic" and upon awakening, one of your friends suddenly jumps to her feet, grabs the microphone, and starts singing because she believes she is Madonna. Another friend has a horrified look on his face because he can't remember his name no matter how hard he tries. Somebody else is frantically scratching all over her body from imaginary insects. All along your most intelligent friend has been rolling all over the stage in combat, shooting invisible aliens with his shoe! This is a show you will never forget!!!
Dave Attell One of the most popular comedians on the circuit, Dave Attell performs regularly at colleges and clubs. Television viewers enjoy Dave's comic genius each week with "Insomniac With Dave Attell," which airs on Comedy Central. A former contributor to "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," Dave also appears frequently on David Letterman and Conan O'Brien. In addition, he's done half-hour comedy specials for both HBO and Comedy Central.
Ben Bailey Ben Bailey: Ben has made appearances on HBO, NBC, Mad TV, Comedy Central, Star Search, and is in the upcoming movie Bad Meat due out this spring.
Murray Banks Humorous psychologist and best-selling author of What To Do Until the Psychiatrist Comes.
Lester Barrie Popular comedian who was the host of BET's "Comic View" for two years. He has also performed on "Def Comedy Jam" and sparked standing ovations on "Showtime at the Apollo".
Dave Barry Well known Humorist, author and Pulitzer Prize winning syndicated columnist.
Rob Bartlett Impressionist and comedian featured on "Imus in the Morning" radio show.
Ray Baumel “Put-on” artist whose impersonation of the “expert” of your choice leaves audiences amused, spellbound and entertained.
Bill Bellamy Well known comedian and actor.
Justin Berkman Justin Berkman is an emerging star in stand-up comedy. This young comedian brings passion, wisdom, and an incredibly original and equally hilarious brand of comedy to the stage. Justin doesn't just tell jokes, he puts on a show. His likeability and widespread appeal are enabling his current rise to stardom. The Los Angeles native appeared on three episodes of MTV's "Yo Momma", and has also been seen on FX's "The People's Champion" and SiTV's "Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner". Additionally, he was one of the headliners on The New Generation of Comedy Tour which traveled to over 30 cities across the country. He has been a guest comedian on a number of radio stations, and his services are in demand at numerous comedy clubs and colleges nationwide. So, check out this former gymnast, Jamba Juice smoothie engineer and Trivial Pursuit question writer because, "he's funny" (quote by Justin Berkman).
Dr. Bertice Berry Comedian, motivational speaker, sociologist and talk-show host. Dr. Bertice Berry combines inspiration, folk wisdom, humor and pathos in her lecture presentation. She is the author of Bertice: The World According To Me; and Sckraight from the Ghetto: You Know You're Ghetto If...
Mike Birbiglia In his career of 11 years, Mike Birbiglia has grown from a down-and-out failure to a popular talk show comic to a groundbreaking, original storyteller who challenges the genre of standup comedy. The results? Two critically acclaimed albums, three Comedy Central specials, and an Off-Broadway show called "Sleepwalk with Me," a powerful evening of comedy that is as moving as it is funny. At 24, Mike was one of the youngest comedians ever to appear on The Late Show With David Letterman. Seventeen Magazine named Mike one of the "Voices Of The Next Generation" and Mike made countless appearances on Conan, Kimmel, Carson Daly, and Ferguson. From there, Mike took his act on the road: headlining colleges, then clubs, then theaters nationwide. Mike's debut album Two Drink Mike drew comparisons to Seinfeld from Esquire Magazine in their "Favorite Comedy Albums." AMG Music hailed it "the arrival of standup's next big thing." In 2003, Mike was invited to perform at HBOs U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado. While there, he was asked to be a part of The Moth Storytelling Series, famous for putting together lineups of authors like Sam Shepard, Andy Borowitz, and Malcolm Gladwell. It was Mikes first time telling a story on stage and it piqued his interest in taking that format to a standup setting. Over the next year, Mike started writing what he calls his "Secret Public Journal," a blog that chronicles Mike's habit of "making awkward situations even more awkward." Mikes Journal quickly gained momentum, picking up 30,000 email subscribers and an invitation to perform it regularly on the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Radio Show. In 2007, Mike released a live rendition of his favorite stories on a CD entitled, "My Secret Public Journal LIVE," which both Time Out New York and Time Out Chicago hailed the "Comedy Album of the Year." Punchline Magazine called it "The comedy album of this generation." In 2008, after shooting a CBS TV pilot based on his act, Mike decided he was going to take his audience in a different direction. He teamed up with Obie Award Winning Director Seth Barrish and Quasi-World Entertainment producers Eli Gonda and Ryan Scott Warren for a passion project he's been developing under the radar for the last 4 years. "Sleepwalk with Me" tells the story of how Mike's personal bouts with sleepwalking almost killed him. The Boston Globe calls Mikes new stories, "as honest as any Richard Pryor confession, and as engaging and inclusive as an old Bill Cosby record." It's that inclusiveness that has made him a popular contributor on shows as diverse as This American Life to the nationally-syndicated Opie and Anthony Show. "Sleepwalk With Me" is Mike's painfully-funny one-man show about first love, denial and about how the sleepwalking disorder that nearly killed him might have saved his life.
Lewis Black Popular comedian and winner of the 2001 American Comedy Awards, Lewis' comedy is angry and frenetic. No subject is out of reach for this satirist. His material is always fresh and funny, which makes him a favorite on Comedy Central's Daily Show and at colleges and comedy clubs across the country.
Jay Black Comedy Central Presents Jay Black started out as an English teacher. After a few years, Jay decided to leave teaching and turned to comedy. Hes been there ever since. Hes performed at dozens of comedy clubs and college campuses.
Michael K. Blackson Considered one of the most original foreign comics in the United States. Michael Blackson, known as The African King of Comedy, hails from West Africa and has become one of the most outstanding and original comedians in this country. Blackson has appeared on BET's ComicView, HBO's Snaps, Uptown Comedy Hour, BET's Live From LA and Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam.
Josh Blue Josh Blue a comedian who was voted the "Last Comic Standing" on NBC's reality show Last Comic Standing during its fourth season. Blue has cerebral palsy and many of his jokes center on living with his disability, how he deals with it and how other people view him. He has made many jokes including coining the term Palsy Punch. The palsy punch is a term coined by Josh during his last set during the finals of Last Coming Standing. He says that the palsy punch is effective in a fight because "first of all, they don't know where the punch is coming from, and second of all, neither do I." Blue got his start in comedy doing open-mic sets while attending The Evergreen State College. Audiences reacted enthusiastically to his self-deprecating humor, and Blue started making a name for himself on the comedy circuit. He has appeared several times on Comedy Central's Mind of Mencia. He is also an excellent soccer player and was part of the 2004 U.S. Paralympic team.
Kevin Bozeman Kevin uses his high-energy act and knack for the obvious to give a unique perspective on traveling, dating, social and controversial issues. No subject is sacred from his hilarious truths. He is quickly working his way to the top headlining comedy clubs throughout the country. Don’t be surprised if you see Kevin Bozeman appearing in the next big sit-com. Kevin has appeared on Comedy Centrals Comics Come Home, Premium Blend, opened for Aretha Franklin and was a 1999 winner of the HBO Comedy Competition
Wayne Brady Wayne Brady is perhaps one of the funniest comedic actors on TV. His hilarious improvisational antics, paired with his ability to impersonate just about anyone, have won the laughs of many Americans on ABC's hit comedy series "Whose Line is it Anyway?"Wayne scored a second Emmy Award nomination in 2002 for his work on "Whose Line is it Anyway" in the category of Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Musical. He has received several other accolades for his work in theater, including nominations for Best Actor in a Musical for "Cotton Patch Gospel" at the distinguished Edyth Bush Theatre. Wayne was also named Sak Theatre's 1992 Rookie of the Year for Theatre Sports/Improv. He continues to tour the country with his own improv show, "Wayne Brady and Friends," selling out the nations top theaters and venues. In addition, he and his wife Mandie recently opened a four-week run of the stage production, "The Only Game in Town" in Los Angeles. The Daily Variety called Wayne's performance as compulsive gambler Joe Grady "an absolute winner."
David Brenner Well known comedian and television star.
Jim Breuer Jim Breuer, a former cast member of "Saturday Night Live," has been continuing to make us laugh since his departure at the end of the 1997 season. During his time at "SNL," Breuer was probably best known for his original character, "Goat Boy" and his Joe Pesci impression on the recurring, "Joe Pesci Show." Breuer's feature film career began to take off after leaving "SNL." He starred in Universal Picture's hit comedy, "Half-Baked" and in Phoenix Pictures', "Dick." He recently completed filming a role in Laurence Fishburne's directorial debut, "Once in The Life." A stand-up comedian since his college days on Long Island, New York, Breuer worked in comedy clubs around the country for several years before deciding to become a regular on the New York comedy club circuit. After being in New York for only seven months, he landed a gig on the nationally syndicated show, "Uptown Comedy Club" where he spent two seasons. Breuer has been featured on many network and cable television showcases, such as CBS' "Late Show with David Letterman," NBC's "Later," Comedy Central's "Denis Leary Roast" and hosted Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" series. Jim also had his own show at MTV entitled, "The Jim Breuer Show," and his own Comedy Central special, "Jim Breuer: Hardcore."
Hypno Bro Even with a degree in Architecture, its hard to believe there was ever a time Leroy Williams considered not being a performer. In place at a nice secure government job with the Corps of Engineers in Norfolk, Virginia, Leroy stumbled into an open mic night at a local comedy club...and took first place. After winning a gig as the MC, Leroy was hooked. Bitten, but still practical, Leroy did not commit to standup until returning to his home town of Houston, Texas in 1991, the mecca of comedy in the southwest US. Leroy became a regular at the Comedy Place, which proved a great training ground. Even though the audience only consisted of 3 to 150 patrons, the show went on. You could be called on to MC or headline with no advance notice. You either worked hard at becoming a better comedian or got left back in the pack of also rans and could have beens. Leroy paid his dues the old-fashioned way...by working the road. The experience proved invaluable as Leroy climbed through the ranks to headline such notable clubs as Pierce St. Annex in Anchorage, Alaska. The Punchline and Bobbys Comedy Corner in Houston, Texas, The Comedy Lift in Omaha, Nebraska. His international performances include Germany, Italy, Japan and Korea. Having appeared on BETS Comic View numerous times and opening for such notable acts as Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.C. Curry. Leroy added hypnosis to his repertoire to the delight of audiences in clubs, colleges and corporate events nationwide. One of my most favorite entertainers, he slips from comedian to hypnotist in a fast paced show that leaves you wanting more. Linda CunninghamTake a Break Cruises and Travel Arguably the only black stand-up comedian/hypnotist in the country (if you dont count baptist preachers). Leroys show can be tailored to fit your needs for all ages and any venue. With a mixture of urban contemporary observational comedy, hip-hop, hypnotic improvisation and undeniable stage presence, HynoBro is guaranteed to bring Da Laffs. Hypnosis has just added a new flavor. So lets all get HypBrotized.
Cocoa Brown Being called one of the funniest ladies to hit the comedy scene in recent years,this sista is bringing the noise…and the truth to audiences all over the world. Sharing experiences of her own as well as her family friends and basically anyone, this crazy child is making a serious roar in the jungle we call stand-up comedy. Now that you’ve entered the website Cocoa Brown just wants to know one thing…
Bruce Bruce One of the most recognizable figures in African American comedy, Bruce Bruce has been the host of BET's daily comedy showcase Comic View for two years and he has appeared on HBO's Def Comedy Jam, Showtime at the Apollo and Comedy Central Presents. He has appeared at the Black Film Festival in Acapulco, the Just for Laugh's Festival in Atlanta, the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen and the Crown Royal Comedy Soul Festival.
Hannibal Buress In 2003 Hannibal Buress was a finalist in the Laugh Across America contest and competed in the Las Vegas Comedy Festival. While he was a student at Southern Illinois University he hosted his own campus television show "The Hangover" which became a hit among the dorm-dwellers. In 2005 he was one of the Chicago finalists in the NBC "Stand up for Diversity Showcase". Hannibal was a stand out performer in the New Faces showcase of the Montreal Comedy Festival in 2006 and was selected to perform on the Comedy Factory TV show in Holland the same year. Most recently, Hannibal was named Funniest Person in Chicago by Time Out Magazine and appeared on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Hannibal can be seen on Comedy Central's LIVE AT GOTHAM.
Bo Burnham Bo Burnham is a teenager and comedian. In 2006, Bo Burnham wrote songs, posted them online, and lots of people saw them. Then, Bo Burnham started playing live shows. Bo Burnham played at colleges, clubs and theaters. People came. In August of 2008, four days after his eighteenth birthday, Bo Burnham became the youngest person to record a comedy central special. Bo Burnham released a CD in March 2009. Some people think Bo Burnham is funny.
Bill Burr I've been doing Stand Up for the last 15 years. I started out at a comedy club in Boston Ma, called Nick's Comedy Stop. I was supposed to do five minutes and I think I did about three. I've been doing it ever since.My biggest gigs have been The Chappelle's Show, HBO One Night Stand, The Opie and Anthony Show and The David Letterman Show. Because of those gigs I know make a comfortable living telling jokes around the country.If I were better adjusted that would be enough for me. For some reason it isn't, so as of yesterday I moved from New York to LA. I'll let you know how it goes.
Steve Byrne Steve Byrnes high energy, physical style of comedy make him one of the hottest young comedians touring the country today. He was born to a Korean mother and an Irish father, which provides him with a wealth of material. His new hour special, Steve Byrne's Happy Hour, premiered on Comedy Central earlier this year to rave reviews. He will be on the big screen later this year in the Jeremy Piven vehicle The Goods: The Don Ready Story as well as with Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon in Four Christmases. He was a series regular on NBC's The Real Wedding Crashers and he appeared in a promo for last years Superbowl halftime show with Prince. His standup has been featured on NBC's The Tonight Show, ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live, CBS's The Late Late Show and BET's Comic View. Steve has been a featured comic at The Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, The HBO US Comedy Arts Festival in Las Vegas and The CanWest Comedy Fest in Vancouver. He has featured for Colin Quinn on a USO tour in Iraq as well as for Drew Carrey in Afghanistan. He has been part of several national comedy tours including The Jameson Comedy Tour, Vince Vaughn's Wild West Comedy Tour, and his own national MySpace comedy tour. He won the MySpace Standup Or Sitdown Comedy Challenge and his Comedy Central half hour special was voted one of the best of all time in the Comedy Central Standup Showdown. Steve's lack of ego and outstanding work ethic make him one of the most sought after comedians in clubs and colleges across the country.
Louis C.K. Louis is a standup comedian, actor, writer and director. I swear to god he is atually all those things. Here are some recent highlights. After that we'll start from the beginning... Louis has been cast to star with Ricky Gervais in a new film entitled This Side of the Truth, which is written and directed by Ricky Gervais. Louis was the star and creator of HBOs first and only multi camera sitcom Lucky Louie which ran for one season and then was cancelled. Louis starred in his own one hour standup special on HBO called Louis C.K.: SHameless which was critically acclaimed. A year later, he shot his second Hour SPecial called Louis C.K.: Chewed Up at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston Mass. Louis recently signed a deal with CBS to write and create a new series pilot, which he is writing with Pamela Adlon, who played his wife on Lucky Louie. Louis had substancial parts in two other films Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins starring Martin Lawrence and Diminished Capacity starring Matthew Broderick and Alan Alda.
Frank Caliendo Whether he is appearing on late night television or Foxs NFL Pre-game show, comedian and impressionist Frank Caliendo brings a hilarious act filled with larger-than-life stories and characters. Frank Caliendo is Americas premier impersonator. Widely considered to be one of the funniest and most talented comedians of our time, Caliends uncanny impressions will have your audience rolling in the aisles with laughter. The star of TBS hit show Frank TV, Caliendo has literally dozens of impressions that will leave you guessing who he will be poking fun at next. From the real to the surreal, Caliendo always delivers a hilarious take on icons of the past and current events.
Lee Camp Since Lee Camp graduated college 4 years ago, he has headlined over 300 college shows, published three comedy books, been head comedy news writer for two popular websites, been featured on MTV's "Walk of Shame," NBC's "Law & Order: SVU," Spike TV's "Order of The Serpentine," Gwyneth Paltrow's short film "Dealbreaker," and DirecTV channel 101. You probably recognize him as a comedian commentator on MTV, Animal Planet, E!, and Fox News. He won the Laugh Across America Contest for New York. At the Montreal Just For Laughs Festival he was named one of the best New Faces. Most recently he was a finalist in the 2007 New York Comedy Festival's Funniest Comedian Contest. His comedy is unafraid, sarcastic, and opinionated. Lee gets audiences to laugh at the way we all act like idiots every day of our lives. Lee has been the opening act for Jimmy Fallon, Darrell Hammond, and Lewis Black, and he's also the author of the popular college comedy book - Neither Sophisticated Nor Intelligent: A College Humorist's Take on Life.
Lee Camp If he boiled his entire existance down to one sentence what would it be? It would probably be Zero hero cats turtle havoic on the underside, but that would make little sense to anyone but him. Lee has been on Comedy Cenrals Fresh Debate 08 and came out owith his own DVD titled Sometimes Funny Hurts. This is one comedian you want to be sure to see.
Michael Caracciolo I would like to take the time to introduce myself to you. My name is Michael Caracciolo. I am the president of a ticket company in New Jersey. However, although I have been in the ticket business for many years, I am certain that I am in the wrong profession. I should be an actor instead. I believe that I possess all the qualities necessary for success as an actor. I am a very conversational person, my voice easily projects, via my six foot six inch 400 pound amplifier! I also sing. My unique background, persona and life’s experience truly qualify me as one of a kind .The material recorded here is ad-libbed, improvisational and spontaneous. It contains profanity which is offered only in support of demonstrating my dramatic intensity and the context of the material. I am certain that after watching it once you will immediately want to contact me.
Drew Carey Comedian, actor, game show host and photographer, Drew Carey gained popularity staring in his own sitcom, The Drew Carey Show. Drew then went on to host Whose Line Is It Anyway? And is the current game show host for The Price Is Right. He has been in several films, tv series, music videos and computer games. Drew is a minority owner of the MLS team Seattle Sounders.
Jordan Carlos Jordan Carlos is an All-American stand-up comedian who is most known for his role as Alan, Colberts black friend on The Colbert Report. He also co hosted the Nickelodean show MeTV. Carlos' performance is sure to knock the audience off their seats and leave them rolling on the ground in laughter.
Adam Carolla No stranger to Comedy Central, Too Late host Adam Carolla spent four seasons as co-host and co-creator of The Man Show, served as co-creator and handled the voice of Dick Birchum on Crank Yankers and also lent his voice to the character of Spanky on Drawn Together. A former carpenter and boxing instructor, Carolla began working for LA-based radio station KROQ-FM's "Kevin and Bean" show. His success on KROQ led to a hosting job on the radio and television show Loveline. The popularity of the show led Adam to co-author "The Dr. Drew and Adam Book: A Survival Guide to Life and Love" which is now in its second printing.
Dana Carvey Dana Carvey Emmy-award winning comedian Dana Carvey has maintained an illustrious career. A repertory member of Saturday Night Live since the 1986-87 season, Carvey left in 1992 after seven seasons. Carvey is best known for his characters the Church Lady; Hans, of the Hans and Franz body building duo; Garth, Wayne Campbell (Mike Myers) Excellent Co-Host on the immensely popular sketch Waynes World, and Weekend Updates Grumpy Old Man.
Dave Chapelle With roles in "Undercover Brother" and "The Nutty Professor," Dave Chappelle is quickly becoming recognized for his comedic acting talent. In addition to films, the Washington native has been a large draw for a number of years at colleges and top comedy clubs across the country. HBO viewers saw Chappelle star in "Killin' Them Softly," his own comedy special.
Chevy Chase Buy this Chevy Chase poster from Art.com I'm Chevy Chase, and you're not. -- Chevy Chase, Saturday Night Live The son of a plumbing-company heiress, Cornelius Crane Chase was nicknamed "Chevy" (after the wealthy Maryland community of the same name) by his grandmother. After graduating from Bard college with a BA in English, Chevy held down several jobs (tennis pro, truck driver, bartender) before seeking work as a comedy writer; throughout his twenties Chase wrote for the Smothers Brothers, National Lampoon, and (just once) Mad magazine. His performing career began with "Channel One," a New York-based comedy video workshop, which evolved into the 1974 feature film Groove Tube. Chase's quick wit and smart-alecky stage presence led to his being hired by producer Lorne Michaels for the first season of NBC's Saturday Night Live in 1975. Ostensibly an ensemble show, S.N.L. quickly became a star vehicle for Chase on the strength of his satirical "Weekend Update" news reports and also because of Chevy's spectacular slapstick falls and his devastating lampoons of President Gerald Ford. Falling on his face (as President Ford on Saturday Night Live) made Chevy a star in 1975. Originally a comedy writer, his deadpan, preppy demeanor and reckless, smartass antics took him to Hollywood after only a year on S.N.L. Chevy stumbled on booze, drugs, and divorce after his initial hits, but his movie career and home life picked up again after a stint in rehab, four, count 'em four, National Lampoon's Vacation movies, and a new wife, Jayni. Chase is living proof that comedy really is hard: he developed a chronic back condition as a result of his frequent pratfalls for the camera.
Henry Cho Asian American comedian who is one of the fastest rising young comedians in the country. Cho was the host of NBC's "Friday Night Videos" and was a regular guest comedian on Jay Leno and the Arsenio Hall Show. Cho's many other comedy credits include NBC's "Bob Hope's Comedians Special," MTV's "1/2 Hour Comedy Hour" and VH-1's "Stand-up Spotlight."
Margaret Cho Margaret Cho started performing stand-up at age 16 in a comedy club called The Rose & Thistle above a bookstore her parents ran. Soon after, she won a comedy contest where first prize was opening for Jerry Seinfeld. She moved to Los Angeles in the early 1990s and lived in a house with several other young performers. Arsenio Hall introduced Margaret to late night audiences, Bob Hope put her on a prime time special and, seemingly overnight, she became a national celebrity. In 1999, Cho chronicled her experience on the sitcom in an off Broadway one-woman show called I'm The One That I Want. The show was extremely well received, toured the U.S, and was made into a concert film and a best-selling book of the same name. The film, which garnered incredible reviews, broke the record for the most money grossed per print in movie history. After the success of her first show, Cho launched Notorious C.H.O. in 2001, a smash-hit 37-city national tour that culminated in a sold-out concert at Carnegie Hall. Notorious C.H.O. was also recorded and released as a feature film, hailed by the New York Times as "Brilliant!" Both films were acquired by Showtime Cable Networks in 2004 and are currently airing on their channels. Cho embarked on her third sold-out national tour, Revolution, in 2003. The tour ultimately grossed 4.4M and was heralded as "Her strongest show yet!" by the Chicago Sun Times. The concert film premiered on the Sundance Channel in 2004 and was released on DVD later that year. The CD of Revolution was nominated for a Grammy for best comedy album of the year for 2003. In 2004, Cho took her politically charged State of Emergency tour through the swing states of the Presidential election. Lauded as "Murderously funny!" by the New York Times, State of Emergency eventually evolved into her fourth national show, Assassin. Her most political and topical work to date, Assassin toured the US, Canada and Australia and was filmed at the Warner Theatre in Washington D.C. The concert film premiered in select theatres and on the gay and lesbian premium channel Here! TV in late 2005. It was recently released on CD by Nettwerk records and on DVD by Koch Entertainment. Margaret was recently the recipient of the First Amendment Award from the ACLU of Southern California, and the Intrepid Award from the National Organization for Women (NOW). She has also been honored by GLAAD, American Women in Radio and Television, the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF), the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF), and PFLAG for "making a significant difference in promoting equal rights for all, regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender identity."
Mystro Clark Mystro started going to local comedy clubs in Dayton Ohio, while attending University of Dayton. After graduation Mystro was activated with his Army Reserve Unit for desert Storm. When Mystro returned home instead of Medical School he decided to move to LA and become a professional comedian. Four years later he landed his first television series The Newz. The rest is history in the making.
Lenny Clarke Lenny Clarke was born in Cambridge, Mass., one of eight children. He decided to pursue stand-up comedy one night when he was working as a janitor, putting himself through college at University of Massachusetts in Boston. That night, he went to the Ding-Ho Restaurant in Cambridge and saw some comics performing. Convinced he could do the same thing, he returned the next week and, "The rest, as they say, is history!" he exclaims. Clarke spent several years as the host of the open-mike nights there and has traveled the world as a stand-up comic. His comedic abilities captured the attention of Rodney Dangerfield, who gave him his first big break, casting him in Nothin' Goes Right. He and Dangerfield also worked together years later on Meet Wally Sparks. After years of hard work, Clarke was "discovered" at the Montreal Comedy Festival. He had his own series, the eponymous Lenny, which ran for 18 episodes. Other TV work includes The John Larroquette Show, hosting The Sunday Comics, and appearances on Touched by an Angel and The Love Boat: The Next Wave.Clarke became friends with Denis Leary over 21 years ago on the stand-up circuit in Boston, and has worked with him in the feature films Two if by Sea and Monument Avenue, which Leary also produced. His other feature films include Baby's In Black, What's the Worst That Could Happen?, Me, Myself & Irene, Rounders, There's Something About Mary, Two if by Sea, Southie, Massholes, and the independent film, Bluff. Clarke has numerous charities close to his heart. Prompted by his sister's battle with MS, he works for several charities related to that cause, as well as for the Genesis Fund, which helps to prevent and treat birth defects
Stephen Colbert Born and raised in South Carolina, Colbert began making a name for himself in Chicago as a member of the famed Second City improv troupe where he met Amy Sedaris and Paul Dinello. After several years at Second City, the threesome moved to New York City and, along with others, developed Exit 57, a halfhour sketch comedy series for HBO Downtown Productions which ran for two seasons during the mid90s on Comedy Central. Exit 57 received five CableACE nominations for best writing, performing and comedy series. Colbert reunited with Sedaris and Dinello to create Comedy Centrals first ever, live-action, narrative series, Strangers with Candy, a twisted take on the classic and typically moralistic afterschool specials. Colbert also starred opposite Will Ferrell and Nicole Kidman in Bewitched; wrote and was a cast member on The Dana Carvey Show; appeared in commercials for GM Mr. Goodwrench wrote for Saturday Night Live and was the voice of Ace on the animated SNL series The Ambiguously Gay Duo. Since 1997, Stephen Colbert has been The Daily Shows longestrunning and most diverse correspondent. In addition to his role as Senior Political Correspondent he was one of the hosts of Even Stephven, a point-counterpoint assault featuring co-correspondent Steve Carell, and the host of "This Week in God," in which he reported on all things theological with the assistance of the "God Machine." Stephen helped The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to win numerous Emmy and Peabody Awards, and contributed to America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction (Warner Books), which immediately topped The New York Times Best Seller List and stayed there for 15 consecutive weeks. His personality, insight and overall rightness could only lead to The Colbert Report, a half-hour nightly platform for him to give his take on the issues of the day, and, more importantly, to tell you why everyone else's take is just plain wrong.
Deon Cole Deon Cole is originally from the south side of Chicago. He is one of the most requested headlining comedians in the club and college circuit nation wide. He is also a successful actor, having appeared in MTV's Short Circuitz as well as Barbershop 1 and 2. As a standup, he has been featured in Comedy Central's Laffapalooza, HBO's Def Comedy Jam, BET's Comic View, NBC's Showtime at the Apollo, BBC's The World Stands Up, and STARZ' First Amendment. Also, Comedy Central produced a half hour special with him which premiered in 2007. Deon has been a featured comic in the HBO US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen and the CanWest Comedy Fest in Vancouver. He was a finalist in NBC's Stand-Up for Diversity Showcase and he won BET's Robin Harris Award for most original comic. He has been part of several tours including the Cole-Cola World European Tour for the Troops (Germany, Amsterdam, Belgium, Japan, & Korea), the BET Comedy Tour, the Def Jam Tour, the Budweiser Superfest R. Kelly Tour and the Mary J. Blige Tour. Deon's charismatic personality and original style make him one of the most popular performers in the comedy scene today.
Wali Collins Wali Collins: He has appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman, MTV's Jim Breuer Show and Louie Anderson's Comedy Hour. Wali was recently featured in the film Coyote Ugly
Patrick Combs Patrick Combs tells the amazing-but-true story of how he deposited a $95,093.35 junk-mail check marked non-negotiable hoping to spread a little banking cheer to tellers and how it erupted into a staggering and funny David vs Goliath-like adventure that still continues today if you count his internationally touring, award winning, off Broadway one-man show about the incident. What happens after the bank cashes the ridiculous check? To name only a few things: angry banking officers threatening jail time and death; the nations leading authority on banking coming out of retirement; astonishing legal twists; and worldwide media coverage (including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Good Morning America and calls from Letterman & Leno).The show sold out in New York during its off-Broadway run at the Lambs Theatre in the heart of Times Square. It also sold out at HBOs 2004 U.S. Comedy Arts Festival held in Aspen; sold out its six show run and garnered Critics Choice at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston; sold out its 10 show run in Winnipeg where it created 3 hour ticket lines, hundreds were turned away and it garnered the Best of Fest award; sold out the Comedy Central Stage in Los Angeles; won Best of Fest at the San Francisco Fringe where it also sold out and was awarded Best Solo Comedy; sold out in Auckland where it was an official selection of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival; sold out in Montreal and won the Just For Laughs prize for Best Comedy.
Dane Cook Dane Cook has captured the attention of audiences worldwide while building an unprecedented following throughout his 15 year career in stand up, television and film. Where Dane goes, the masses follow. Sell out crowds are the norm at colleges, clubs and theatres around the country this includes headlining at Carnegie Hall, a 50,000 seat venue at the University of Florida's Gator Growl, as well as his nationwide documentary entitled TOURGASM. This ardent fan base has propelled Dane's CD/DVD Harmful If Swallowed to over 230,000 units sold in less than two years, garnering appearances on 5 different Billboard charts on numerous occasions since its release.
Alycia Cooper Stand-Up Comedienne, Alycia Cooper, wrote the Top 10s for the #1 radio show in LA, "The Steve Harvey Morning Show," and has written for the likes of Russell Simmons, of Def Jam fame. She has penned a feature length screenplay and has worked on "The Dr. Phil Show, Wanda Does It, “Bands Reunited, The Magic Hour, "The Love Connection, "Men are From Mars, Women are from Venus," "Oh Drama," "The Grown-Ups" and "The Parkers. Alycia has been featured in Essence Magazine as a comedienne to watch! She has also warmed up audiences for Girlfriends and Wanda at Large. Stand Up Credits include BETs Comicview. Alycia has also been on NBCs “Last Comic Standing, "BET Live" and "Oh Drama." She has produced several successful reality shows and has a development deal with Buena Vista/ Disney.
Pete Correale Pete Correale in 2000, he received his first big break, performing at the prestigious Montreal Comedy Festival. After a successful showing in Montreal, Pete has never looked back. Pete has showcased his stand up at the Aspen Comedy Arts Festival, Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Shorties Watchin Shorties, Tough Crowd, numerous appearances on Last Call with Carson Daly, MTV, VHI and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Aside from stand up, Pete has written for, and acted on, various shows for both Comedy Central and MTV. When Pete isn't headlining colleges and comedy clubs across the country, he can be seen honing his craft nightly at various NYC comedy clubs. Pete's stand up material includes a wide array of life experiences; from his trials and tribulations of his marriage to the absurdities of everyday living. Pete Correale currently can be heard every weekday afternoon on Sirius Satellite Radio, where he is the co-host with Jim Breuer on BREUER UNLEASHED afternoon comedy radio show on the Raw Dog comedy channel. So don't miss the chance to check out one of today's rising stars on the comedy scene. And don't forget he can be heard weekdays from 4-6 pm (eastern) on Sirius Radio channel 104 Raw Dog.
Bill Cosby Bill Cosby is, by any standards, one of the most influential stars in America today. Whether it is through concert appearances or recordings, television or films, commercials or education, Bill has the ability to touch people's lives. His humor often centers on the basic cornerstones of our existence as he seeks to provide an insight into our roles as parents, children, family members, and men and women. Without resorting to gimmickry or low-brow humor, his comedy has a point of reference and respect for the trappings and traditions of great American humorists such as Charlie Chaplin, Will Rogers, W.C. Fields and Groucho Marx. It is the fusion of these qualities that resulted in one of television's biggest and most influential hits of the modern era, "The Cosby Show." In the publishing world, he has shattered records with each of his books. "Fatherhood," published by Doubleday/Dolphin in May 1986, became the fastest-selling hardcover book of all time. Booking Bill always assures a packed house and a most memorable event.
Tom Cotter With a burst of energy Tom Cotter has taken the comedy scene by storm. His wise guy brand of humor and rapid fire delivery never miss a beat. It is obvious Tom feels most comfortable on stage. Watching him perform one would think that the stage was his home and the audience was his family. Of the audience, Cotter says, "I feel as if I should be paying them." It was not long before he became a regular in the Boston Comedy clubs. Audiences could not get enough of this young talent. Club owners asked him back time and time again. Tom was thrilled for the opportunity to develop his comedic gift. Shortly after winning the competition, Tom was offered the headlining spot for the Reebok Campus America Tour. His connection with the audience made him a mega hit at colleges all over the country. Tom continues to enjoy his success with the college audiences and is one of the most requested comedians at the NACA conventions. In 1995 Tom moved to New York to pursue new goals. He has since earned the right to play in some of America’s most famous comedy clubs including, The Improv, Catch a Rising Star, and Caroline’s just to name a few. His television credits include "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn," "New Joke City with host Robert Klein," "The Ru Paul Show," A&E’s "An Evening at the Improv," as well as Comedy Central’s "2-Drink Minimum," "Short Attention Span Theatre," and "Stand-Up, Stand-Up." Tom has also become a regular at the Gotham Comedy club in NYC much to the delight of his fans. Versatility has allowed Tom to excel in many areas of show business. His voice has become a familiar staple in commercial voice-overs for many high profile clients including NBC, MTV, Pepsi, McDonald’s, Chevrolet, and Converse. Tom’s obvious enthusiasm for this kind of work has made him a popular choice for advertisers. In 2003, Tom taped his own half hour special for Comedy Central which will air in early 2004. He also won the National Laugh Across America Contest in the comedy club category at the 2nd Annual Las Vegas Comedy Festival.
Dave Coulier Dave Coulier is living proof that sometimes nice, clean-cut guys do finish first. He is perhaps best known for his work on the long running ABC hit series Full House (currently running on Nick At Nite and ABC Family), but his talents as a wholesome entertainer have also helped him become a highly sought after television personality. As the host of ABC's The World's Funniest Videos and America's Funniest People and Nickelodeon's Out of Control, Dave has cemented his place as a fun, family-friendly entertainer. Highly regarded for his amazing voice-over talents, Dave's additional credits include many Saturday morning cartoon favorites (Scooby Doo and The Jetsons). He has also lent his fabulous voice to Jim Henson's Emmy Award-winning animated series Muppet Babies, where he portrayed Animal, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Bean Bunny and Waldorf and Statler. He also provided the voice of Peter Venkman for The Real Ghostbusters cartoon, as well as various voices for the Cartoon Network's Dexter's Laboratory. Dave also has developed a line of children's entertainment products, including the hit CD set Weaver Beaver and Friend Dave is equally at home in the stand-up arena, and has made several appearances on The Tonight Show, Detroit Comedy Jam and HBO's Comedy Relief. Dave continues to enjoy sold out performances of his stand-up act and his college events garner rave reviews.
Charles Cozart Charles Cozart hails from Los Angeles, California. Charles brings his own unique brand of stand-up comedy. He's appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and performs regularly at the famous Comedy Store in La Jolla. He is sure to cause everyone in attendance to "bust a gut."
Adrian Cronauer The real life DJ portrayed by Robin Williams in the hit motion picture “Good Morning Vietnam.”
Dan Cummins Dan Cummins is the rare comic who can combine funny and creatively edgy. He provides a unique and hilarious comedy experience by blending topical humor with tales of growing up in rural Idaho and his original observations of the bizarre. Dan first appeared on stage in August of 2000. He finished second in the 2001 Seattle International Comedy Competition. He is a contributor to the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Show and was featured on Bob & Tom's 2002 Best of CD Bob & Tom Gone Wild. In 2003, Dan was a national semi-finalist in the Comedy Central Laugh Riots competition. In July 2005, Dan appeared at the New Faces show of the Montreal Just For Laughs Comedy Festival. In May 2006, Dan appeared on Comedy Centrals Live at Gotham and in June made his network television debut on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. In November he performed at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival. In addition to working the club circuit and colleges, he also opened numerous dates for Ron White in theatres across the country.
Chad Daniels Chad Daniels started doing open mic at Minneapolis ACME Comedy Company in 1998. After spending some time in Grand Forks, North Dakota emceeing the Westward Ho, living in a 6x8 hotel room, 60 miles from the Canadian border, he moved on to Comedy Centrals Laugh Riots Competition and Live at Gotham along with Comedy Central Presents. He has relased two comedy albums, Two Minutes For Stale Hacking and Busy Being Awesome.
Dov Davidoff Dov is one of the hottest up and coming comics on the scene today. In addition to performing regularly in clubs and at colleges throughout the country, Dov has appeared on several late night talk shows including The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn and Last Call with Carson Daly. Dov has also become somewhat of a regular fixture on Comedy Central having performed on Premium Blend and appeared on The Chappelle Show and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn.Currently, Dov is shooting the Paramount feature film Invincible in which he stars opposite Mark Wahlberg. Dov has also been featured twice at HBOs U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen and has won numerous comedy competitions.
Tommy Davidson An actor, stand-up comedian, musician, and singer, Tommy Davidson's exceptional range has made him a rising force in entertainment. Perhaps best known as one of the original cast members of the hit television show "In Living Color," Davidson has parlayed that success into a flourishing motion picture career. Recently, Tommy starred in Spike Lee's Bamboozled where he received acclaim and praise for his turn as Womack/Sleep 'N Eats, a character which showcased his comedic and dramatic acting abilities. Most recently Tommy starred in Morgan Creek Productions' Juwanna Mann released in June 2002.
DeRay Davis A born hustler from Chicagos inner-city, DeRay has made a name for himself in comedy with his standup and film and television appearances. Winner of the 2000 Comedy Central Laugh Riots Competition and a standout on the Cedric the Entertainer Tour and at the 2001 Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, DeRay spends most of his time building on his extensive resume of comedy clubs and colleges.
Michael Dean Ester Michael Dean Ester is a veteran comedian whos television credits include NBCs "Friday Night videos" as well as the Metro Channels New Joke City."His film credits include "Senseless" with David Spade. Michael holds the prestigious title of Campus Comedian of the year given to the top collegiate performer in the country. He continues to delight college audiences as well as cruise ship patrons because his brilliant comedy bridges the generation gap.
Dom DeLuise Popular Comedian, actor and chef.
Andy Dick Comedian Andy Dick is one of the many actors to experiment with a recording career after their star rises high enough to afford them such side projects. Brashly funny and often utilizing a manic personality to get his humor across, Dick was more often infamous for his legendary heavy partying and drug use before an incident with the law helped him change his habits. Raised in a military family, he knew early on that he was an attention hound and looked to comedy to relieve this feeling. He moved to Chicago to study at the Second City training facility, eventually making friends with actor Ben Stiller who was developing his own humor and trying to escape the shadow of his famous parents. The two hit it off and when Stiller had the chance to develop his own Fox television show, Dick was one of the first cast members. Although the show's cutting edge humor was a bomb in the ratings, an Emmy Award helped dull the pain when Fox cancelled the show. The various cast members moved on to successful comedy careers, but Dick kept relatively quiet until he was cast in NBC's News Radio. Enjoying his first successful national exposure, Dick also started gathering headlines over his hard partying. Rumors of drug use persisted, but appearances in several high profile movies helped him avoid bad publicity for a while. But everything came to a head when friend and partying buddy Chris Farley was found dead after an especially heavy binge. Dick was crushed, but the worst was yet to come as costar and friend Phil Hartman was shot to death in 1998 following an argument with his wife. Dick's drug intake grew, and by 1999 he was being investigated after allegedly exposing himself at a Florida concert. Later that same month, he was the last known person to be seen with David Strickland, an actor that hung himself in a Las Vegas hotel room.
Jeff Dunham Jeff Dunham is a ventriloquist and stand-up comedian. He has performed on numerous comedy shows including Comedy Central Presents in 2003 and The Late Show with David Letterman. Some of his famous puppets include a woozle named Peanut , a bitter old man named Walter, and José Jalapeno - a talking Jalapeno pepper on a stick (whose running joke is adding "on a stick" to the end of other sentences). His latest DVD, Jeff Dunham: Arguing With Myself, was released in April 2006. In this latest stand-up offering, Jeff plays straight-man to his usual crew and two recently added characters, the Playa-In-a-Management-Profession, Sweet Daddy D, and Nascar enthusiast (amongst other things), Bubba J.
Stephen Dweck Humorist, screen writer and co-author of the best selling books on Africa-American humor entitled Snaps, Double Snaps, and Triple Snaps. Their latest books are You're so Fine I'd Drink a Tub of Your Bath Water, and Baby, All Those Curves and Me With No Brakes. They have written "The Williams Family", a comedy for Paramount Pictures and a screenplay, "Puck U" starring Danny Glover, Adam Sandler and the Wayans Brothers.
Jeff Dye Jeff Dye is an extremely talented comedian/actor/host who will be hosting MTVs American Idiot which will premiere in late 2009. Jeff’s Comedy Central Half Hour Special will be airing next year and he performed at this year’s JUST FOR LAUGHS festival for TBS in Chicago. Jeff was a finalist on the 2008 season of ‘LAST COMIC STANDING’ and he performed in a 50 city tour with LCS. Last year he won the Giggles 10th Annual Laff-Off in his native Seattle, and was chosen to perform at the Montreal JUST FOR LAUGHS Festival.
Dean Edwards Young innovative comedian who has appeard on Def Comedy Jam.
Mike Epps Popular actor and stand-up comedian of the Def Comedy Jam broadcasts, Mike Epps co-stars in the hit movie, Next Friday, sharing the spotlight with Ice Cube and John Witherspoon.
Jimmy Fallon Since beginning his career on NBCs perennial late night hit Saturday Night Live in 1998, Jimmy Fallon has appeared in an impressive number of television shows and feature films, working with celebrated directors such as Cameron Crowe, Woody Allen and the Farrelly brothers. Jimmy first showed an interest in performing at the age of two, developing a mini repertoire of impressions that included James Cagney and Don Ho. Impressions would take him all the way to Saturday Night Live in 1998 where Jimmy became one of the shows youngest cast members at the age of 23. During his six year stint on SNL, Jimmy became an audience favorite for his dead on impressions and his quick wit as the host of the popular Weekend Update newscasts. His other television work includes a featured role in the Emmy winning miniseries Band of Brothers, which was directed by Tom Hanks. He guest hosted for David Letterman in June of 2003, and in 2005 participated in Cameron Diazs MTV travel show Trippin, during which he traveled to Africa with Diaz, Justin Timberlake and rapper Talib Kweli, educating viewers about the countrys wildlife and environment. Jimmy has been a favorite among the MTV audience, co hosting the MTV Movie Awards with Kirsten Dunst in 2001, and hosting the MTV Video Music Awards the following year. He also hosted the 2005 MTV Movie Awards. Jimmy made his feature film debut in Cameron Crowes Almost Famous in 2000, as band manager Dennis Hope. In 2003, he worked with Woody Allen in the film Anything Else, alongside Christina Ricci and Jason Biggs. In 2004 he starred with Queen Latifah in the big screen action-comedy Taxi, which he followed up with the romantic comedy Fever Pitch, costarring Drew Barrymore and directed by Peter and Bobby Farrelly. He was most recently seen in the Weinstein Companys Factory Girl, alongside Sienna Miller and Guy Pierce. This spring he finished shooting the title role of Rockett re teaming him with Factory Girl Producer, Holly Wiersma, and co starring Sharon Stone and Lucy Liu. He is also developing an untitled comedy at Universal with Tom Shadyac. In addition to his television and film work, Jimmy, who started out as a stand up comedian, was nominated for a 2003 Grammy award for Best Spoken Comedy Album for his record The Bathroom Wall. Jimmy and his sister Gloria co wrote the book I Hate This Place: The Pessimists Guide to Life, which was published in 2003 by Warner Books. Jimmys childrens book, Snowball Fight, was released in 2005 by the Penguin Group. Jimmy is currently at work on his second comedy album.
Mitch Fatel Mitch has been featured on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Comedy Central's Dr. Katz.
Adam Ferrara A proven favorite in comedy clubs, festivals and sitcoms, Adam Ferrara has earned a name for himself as one of today's leading comedic talents. His popularity as a stand-up has been validated with two American Comedy Award nominations for Best Stand-Up and two "Comedy Central Presents" half-hour specials. Adam's stellar list of stand-up television appearances include multiple appearances on Comedy Central, as well as "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "The Late Show with David Letterman," "The View," "Politically Incorrect," "The Rosie O'Donnell Show," and "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn." Adam has also been a featured performer at the Comedy Central Roasts of Rob Reiner and Denis Leary. Adam's range as an actor has grown since his early years of playing the role of Pete on NBC's "Caroline in the City." He has moved onto projects such as the critically acclaimed ABC series "The Job," in which Adam co-starred opposite Denis Leary. Adam played the role of "Tommy Minetti," a young NYC detective in the prime-time series. He also starred in the behind the scenes Improv documentary "Contest Searchlight" on Comedy Central and most recently wrote and co-starred opposite fellow actor/comedian Lenny Clark in the Comedy Central pilot "Lenny and Adam." Adam was also a guest lead on the NBC hit drama "Law and Order" in their 300th episode entitled "Smoke." Adam's feature film debut "Ash Tuesday" was received at the Tribeca Film Festival with rave reviews. Additionally, Adam recently appeared in the feature "Dark Descends." Adam performed for all 48 of the Democratic Senators at the annual Caucus (with special guest Bill Clinton). Adam was delayed in traffic on the way to the event. Later that evening, Adam was quoted as saying, "I've waited this long for healthcare, now, they can wait for me."
Tina Fey Comedian and head comedy writer for "Saturday Night Live."
Christian Finnegan Christians newest special, "Christian Finnegan: Au Contraire", premiered on Comedy Central in May of 2009. Christian Finnegan is a stand-up comedian, writer and actor based in New York City. He can currently be seen as a panelist on VH1's hit series "Best Week Ever" and as host of TVLands interstitial game show, "Game Time". Other credits include his own half-hour special, "Comedy Central Presents: Christian Finnegan", "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" and numerous appearances on "The Today Show". You might also have caught him on "Chappelle's Show" playing Chad, the only white roommate in the infamous "Mad Real World" sketch. P.S. Christian Finnegan thinks you're a wonderful and talented human being.
Roy Firestone Humorist, impressionist and host of ESPN’s “Upclose Prime Time.”
Chris Fonseca To be a first in Hollywood is not an easy task, but comedian Chris Fonseca has earned that title. He is the first (and only) person with a visible disability to entertain on The Late Night Show with David Letterman, something that had not been done in the show’s 18 year history. Chris allows his Cerebral Palsy to be the foundation of many of his stories. He notes that this helps to break down many preconceived barriers about CP. For fifteen years now he has had collegiate, corporate and association audiences rolling with him in the aisles. Chris was already on his way up as he was asked to become part of the award winning PBS production, Look Who’s Laughing. This show became a break-through production as it became the first comedy special featuring those with disability. He has also be featured as an entertainer on The American Comedy Awards, a presenter at The Presidents Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities Conference, and a featured comedian at The Montreal Comedy Festival. Each year he is the star performer of the San Antonio Latino Laugh Festival where he plays to sold-out crowds of 20,000. He currently is a headliner at the newly formed Los Angeles Latino Comedy Festival. For over a decade, Chris has become a veteran performer turning his physical disability into a positive visual image. He has won the praise of Presidents Clinton and Carter and was invited to entertain on the ABC Special, An Evening of Hope-Christopher Reeve. Chris’ career has been highlighted by many appearances on Evening at the Improv, Comedy on the Road, Entertainment Tonight and has been featured in USA Today, The Los Angeles Times, and Daily Variety. He also had a co-starring guest role on a Media Access Award winning episode of Baywatch. Although touring over 200 nights a year, he still finds time to share with his two beautiful daughters.
Karith Foster By the age of 4, Karith Foster knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life. I distinctly remember watching Sesame Street and thinking, I should be doing that! Though she never got to fulfill her dream of sitting on a fake brick wall shooting the sh*t with multicolored Muppets, today she is fulfilling her dream of entertaining audiences around the world in the hopes of leaving them with a universal message or twolike we really are all the same underneath but sometimes one of these things is not like the other; and not only is it okay to acknowledge, but a must, to make fun of. Because ALL is fair in love and comedy. Raised in Plano, Texas the affluent suburb north of Dallas with the ethnic diversity of a Klan rally Karith indulged her performing bug by starring in her high schools ALL WHITE production of A Raisin in the Sun. She currently resides in New York City where everyday she learns something new like just because she blends into her Harlem neighborhood it is not cool to walk into a bodega a little Spanish grocery store and say Que pasa yall?!! Since her stint in NYC, shes been nicknamed Princess by several friends and acquaintances who are convinced shes actually a Jewish girl from Long Island trapped in that bodywhich would technically make her a JAAP (Jewish African-American Princess). So in her case its not talk to the hand, but talk to the manicure. And although she may never have cooked a full meal in her life, she knows how to use a Zagats Restaurant Guide like nobodys business. Karith performs weekly at a variety of NYC comedy clubs including The Boston Comedy Club, The Comic Strip, Gotham Comedy Club, New York Comedy Club, and Stand up New York Comedy Club just check her schedule to see when and where shes going up or to see if shell be in a town near you. Imus introduced Karith Foster on his new radio show WABC AM
Jeff Foxworthy Contrary to popular belief, Jeff Foxworthy is not an overnight success story. Before starring on The Jeff Foxworthy Show for two seasons, releasing many best-selling CDs and books and selling out major theaters, Foxworthy was on a first-name basis with every Holiday Inn manager in the country. Years of relentless touring, mastering the art of sleeping while standing up and waking at the crack of dawn to do morning radio and television interviews all helped mold Foxworthy into one of the most respected and successful comedians in the country. The Jeff Foxworthy Countdown, a weekly syndicated 3-hour radio show, debuted in April 1999, bringing fans current Top 25 country hits as well as interviews. The show, which is carried in more than 210 markets across the U.S., earned Foxworthy a CMA nomination for Broadcast Personality of the Year in 2001. To date, Foxworthy's recording sales have tallied over 13 million units, making him the largest-selling comedy-recording artist in history. His last album, Big Funny, received a 2000 Grammy Award nomination, the fourth honor Foxworthy has received for his recording efforts. Totally Committed, released in May 1998, has reached gold status and also received a 1999 Grammy nomination. His first CD, You Might be a Redneck If, has been registered triple platinum (3 million units), the only time a comedy CD has reached this mark and it has also become the largest-selling comedy recording of all time. Foxworthy's Games Rednecks Play was certified platinum a mere five weeks after its release. It went on to achieve triple platinum status and received a 1996 Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album. The single, Games Rednecks Play, with country star Alan Jackson, was nominated for a 1997 Grammy for Best Vocal Collaboration. It was Foxworthy's salute to his hometown of Atlanta, host city for the 1996 Summer Olympics. A regular on such shows as The Tonight Show and The Late Show With David Letterman, Foxworthy also has an HBO special and two Showtime specials to his credit, one of which earned a CableAce nomination. Foxworthy has also been honored with a People's Choice Award as Favorite Male Newcomer for The Jeff Foxworthy Show and won TNN's Comedian of the Year three years in a row. Foxworthy has authored 11 best-selling books, which have sold more than 5 million copies. His autobiography, No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problem , spent two months on the New York Times Bestseller List and sold more than 600,000 copies. His calendars have sold more than 1.5 million copies and he also has a line of greeting cards through American Greetings.
Jamie Foxx Despite being in the entertainment business for only a short time, Jamie Foxx has already proven himself an accomplished performer in film, television and music. Music was Jamie's first love, so he nurtured his natural talent by singing in a church choir and studying classical piano in his hometown of Terrell, Texas. He majored in music at a small liberal arts college in San Diego before a fateful visit to Los Angeles on his 21st birthday literally changed his life. While visiting a local comedy club, Jamie took a dare from a friend to go on stage and perform. He brought the house down with his impromptu routine. Realizing his comedic talent could be his ticket to Hollywood, he auditioned for the television show "In Living Color." Foxx was chosen from an open casting call of 300 for the coveted role of a series regular. His popularity on the hit show led to his own one-hour HBO comedy special, "Straight from the Foxxhole." In the special, he showcased his musical talents with a medley of songs that led to the 1995 release of his debut album, "Peep This." With all 12 songs written, produced and performed by Foxx, the album climbed to the #12 spot on Billboard's R&B chart. His other television credits include a recurring role on the critically acclaimed comedy series "Roc." Foxx also has made a name for himself in feature films. His credits include starring with Uma Thurman and Janeane Garofalo in "The Truth About Cats & Dogs" and "The Great White Hype" with Samuel L. Jackson and Damon Wayans. He will also star in the upcoming comedy "Good to Go" in which he was reunited with former "In Living Color" castmate Tommy Davidson.
Pablo Francisco When Pablo Francisco unleashes his creative combustion his audience is jolted into boisterous laughter and applause. It is not uncommon to sense the anticipation of Pablo's audience as his fans await their favorite impressions. Those who experience Pablo's show for the first time find themselves captivated by his brilliant off-the-wall sound effects and uniquely animated delivery. His natural ability to create vividly funny living pictures that focus on family and relationships give Pablo's show a universal appeal. His hilarious spoofing of those intensely melodramatic Spanish language soap operas on Telemundo, and his narration of the action-movie preview with Arnold Schwarzenegger as a tortilla vendor brings huge laughs coast to coast. Pablo has become an international sensation selling out numerous shows overseas where English is the second language. This gifted performer continues to thrive on the unpredictability of stand up comedy, continually weaving new material throughout his show. Pablo was inspired by the comedy sets he watched on Carson and Letterman at the impressionable age of 13. Armed with a VCR his dad bought, Francisco started taping every comedy set possible. By the age of 17, the young Tucson native took his first step on the path to success. It was clear that comedy had become an irresistible inspiration, and Pablo was up for the challenge of his first open mic night. It wasn't long before the Improv discovered his undeniable talent. Now the 30 something L.A. resident, is living his passion with guest appearances on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," Starred in his own Comedy Central Presents special which is consistently in the top 5 most requested, FOX's animated feature "The Family Guy," Showtime's "Full Frontal Comedy," Comedy Central's "Short Attention Span Theater" and "Make Me Laugh. Francisco was a cast member on the Fox Network's sketch comedy show "Mad TV" and has performed at the "Montreal Comedy Festival." Pablo was nominated Comedian Of The Year by the American Comedy Awards and starred in national commercials for Coke and City Bank with Elton John. Watch for Pablo as the movie reviewer on David Spade's new Comedy Central show entitled "The Show Biz Show." Recently Pablo did a hilarious appearance as the Movie Guy on Comedy Centrals Mind Of Mencia and is currently touring the country. Pablo can be seen regularly as the host of Latino Laugh Festival: "The Show" on SiTV seen by over seven million people.
Al Franken One of America's top comedians and political satirists, Al Franken was a part of Saturday Night Live's original writing staff and one of the program's most popular performers, bringing to life the quirky self-esteem guru, Stuart Smalley. He made a big splash with the publications of his books, Rush Limbaugh is a Big Fat Idiot and Other Observations and Why Not Me?: The Inside Story of the Making and Unmaking of the Franken Presidency. Al Franken is perhaps best known for his work on Saturday Night Live. In 1975, Franken was part of the original writing staff that created the groundbreaking late night show. Franken remained with the original show until 1980 and then returned in 1985. He stayed for another 10 years, leaving after the 1994-95 season. Franken received four Emmys for his writing on SNL and a fifth for producing. He also won recognition for his on-camera work, first as half of the comedy team of "Franken and Davis", then for his "Al Franken Decade" persona. He also was recognized for such characterizations as the one-man mobile uplink unit and Stuart Smalley, the new age cable TV host.
David Frye Popular comedian, master impressionist and political satirist. His unique ability to take on the voices, facial characteristics and move-ments of celebrities is known by millions of Americans.
Ardie Fuqua Ardie Fuqua You've seen him on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Apollo Comedy Hour. While attending Rutgers University as a Journalism Major, Ardie ventured to New York City's Uptown Comedy Club in Harlem. There he watched a lot of young guys getting laughs and thought it looked like a lot of fun, he had no idea you could make a living from it. After working just one year in comedy, he became a regular at the Boston Comedy Club, Gotham Comedy and Carolines. Since then he's been seen on NBC's Friday Night Videos and HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Apollo Comedy Hour. When not on the road, he can be seen at his home based club, the Comedy Cellar in New York City.
Ron G Ron G is blazing a trail as one of the hottest upcoming comedians in LA. This former class clown decided it was time to graduate from the classroom and take his act to the world's stage. Ron G, who describes his comedy as "high energy and clever with an urban flare," graduated with a dual degree in finance and management from the University of South Carolina. But he quickly decided he didn't fit into the corporate world, and at his cousin's urging got up on stage for the first time in Atlanta, GA and got booed severely. He calls that "the best and worst day of my life - the day I fell in love with comedy." He has been performing ever since at clubs, colleges, churches and corporate events across the country, entertaining people while staying true to his commitment to clean humor. His performance presents down to earth humor and funny characters. Ron G began his stand up career in Atlanta, GA, and was crowned 1st place winner of the 2005 Sierra Mist Late Night Laff Off. After moving to Los Angeles to further his career as a comedian and actor, he was a finalist on the new hit TV show Bill Bellamy's "Who's Got Jokes" and was also a finalist on the most recent season of NBC's Last Comic Standing. And if that wasn't enough, on his very first commercial audition, he booked a gig as national Spokesperson for Checker's & Rally's Restaurants. Having Martin Lawrence tell him he was funny is one of Ron G's career highlights so far, and after receiving his first standing ovation only eight months in the game, he knew he had found his calling.
Jim Gaffigan Raised in Indiana, Jim Gaffigan decided to make the move to New York City in pursuit of becoming a successful actor and stand up comic. It is apparent that Jim has more than arrived. After Jim's first appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman, Mr. Letterman personally chose Jim to develop a sitcom for World Wide Pants. A year and half later, Welcome to New York debuted to critical acclaim boasting a cast of Christine Baranski, Rocky Carroll and Sara Gilbert. The Wall Street Journal declared Jim "a true find" and TV Guide Nominated Jim for Best New Actor in a Sitcom TV Guide Award. Jim has guest starred on many other network television shows including Ed, Law & Order, Third Watch, Lateline, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, Soul Man and Conrad Bloom. Jim was also a cast member of the VH1 sketch show Random Play. Jim recently completed a lead role in his eleventh independent film, No Sleep Till Madison a feature film directed by Erik Moe. Some of his other film credits include Three Kings, Road Trip, Endsville, Personals and Entropy. Jim also appeared in two films chosen for the 2001 Sundance Film Festival Super Troopers and Thirty Years to Life. Some recognize Jim from his numerous commercial campaigns, which include ESPN, Saturn, Energizer and Rolling Rock. Jim's commercial presence was a so large and successful in 1999 Business Week called him "Salesman of The Year". As a stand up comedian, Jim's cutting edge style has earned him 10 unprecedented appearances on Late Show with David Letterman. Jim has also numerous appearances on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn and Comedy Central's Dr. Katz. Jim performed is own half hour comedy special for comedy central entitled Comedy Central Presents: Jim Gaffigan. Jim has performed at both the prestigious HBO US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado and the world renowned Just For Laughs International Comedy Festival in Montreal, Canada.
Zach Galifianakis I was bored and raised in the foothills of North Carolina. I was a small child. At the age of four I grew a beard. I named it Sheila. I started doing stand up humor in NYC at a place called Hamburger Harrys. I bombed many, many times. Sheila was very discouraged. When my jokes improved I started getting acting jobs. Not to brag but I have been in many shitty things. Some good. Here goes: TV Reno 911 Tom Goes To The Mayor Apt. 2F Letterman Conan James Kimmel Shitcom Boston Common Tru Calling (when I sold my soul) Late World with Zach Movies AKA Films: Comedians of Comedy Flushed Heartbreakers Bubble Boy Corky Romano Out Cold Below
Janeane Garofalo Actress/Comedienne/Activist Janeane Garofalo has been consistently working in film and television since she got her start in 1992. This winter she completed the film "Stay," with Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts, and can be seen in the recently released "Wonderland," with Val Kilmer. In addition to a demanding shooting schedule, Janeane continues to perform spoken word and stand-up comedy around the country. Janeane is currently working on a book for Simon and Schuster, titled "For Those About to Salute, We Will Rock You" which will be a collection of humorous, politically themed essays. In keeping in step with her out spoke ways, she will also host her own talk show on Radio Free America, slated to launch this March. A lightning rod for controversy, Janeane's well informed opinions and honesty have inspired laughs, as well as striking a chord with the left, right and everything in between. Janeane is probably most known for her memorable and critically acclaimed roles in "The Truth About Cats and Dogs," "Steal This Movie," "Copland," and "Reality Bites," as well as for her specific brand of sharp wit and comedy shown in her roles in "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion," "Bye Bye Love," "Mystery Men," "Clay Pigeons," "The Minus Man," and "The Cable Guy," directed by her friend Ben Stiller. Ben and Janeane also co-authored the best seller Feel This Book (Ballantine May 1999). Janeane was also a cast member of the Emmy Award-winning Ben Stiller Show. Janeane played the role of Paula, the acerbic talent booker, on The Larry Sanders Show, for which she received an Emmy nomination in 1997 and two Cable Ace nominations. During the fall of 94 she joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. Some of Janeanes other television work includes two specials for HBO and the series finale of Mad About You.
Brad Garrett Brad Garrett is a three time Emmy Award winning American actor and comedian known for his roles on the television sitcoms Everybody Loves Raymond as Robert Barone and Til Death as Eddie Stark.The comedian, whose voice can be heard in such films as Casper, Toonsylvania and Finding Nemo, shines brightest when he is put on the spot, answering any number of questions from the audience. The night I saw the comedian, a college student asked Garrett to "bust a move" like he sometimes did on "Everybody Loves Raymond. Garrett first teased the student, poking fun of him and the number of drinks he mightve had, and then invited him and a friend up on stage for photos. Making every minute memorable, Garrett channeled Robert Barone and goofily danced while posing for a photo shoot all to the music of "Disco Inferno. Other highlights include Garrett, who likens himself to a cross between Greg Brady and Herman Munster and proves it by impersonating Munster, doing a laugh-inducing imitation of former co star, Ray Romano. Paying homage to his moments on the show, Garrett ends the night with amusing outtakes from "Everybody Loves Raymond."
Greg Giraldo Greg Giraldo is one of New York City's top comedians and a headliner in clubs across the country. Socially provocative and yet broadly funny, Greg has become one of the most versatile and highly entertaining comics working today. Greg is currently hosting "Stand-Up Nation with Greg Giraldo" on Comedy Central, every Friday at 9pm (8pm central). It's a full night of comedy from some of today's top stand-ups plus a monologue from Greg on the events of the week along with interviews in-studio with guest comedians as well as field pieces. Last year, Greg Giraldo hosted the popular "Friday Nite with Greg Giraldo" also on Comedy Central. Prior to hosting his own show, Greg was a regular panelist on "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn" which aired for three seasons on Comedy Central. Greg Giraldo has had two half-hour stand-up specials for Comedy Central Presents and performed on Comedy Central's year-end special "Last Laugh" in 2004 and 2005. He has also appeared on "Late Show with David Letterman" (CBS) several times, and has been a guest on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" (NBC) over a dozen times. Greg Giraldo developed and starred in his own ABC sitcom, "Common Law," which was loosely based on his experiences at a New York law firm. He also created and starred in sitcom pilots for NBC and CBS. In 2004, Greg partnered with European producers LazyBoy on a hit modern rock/electronic song released by Universal/Motown Records called "Underwear Goes Inside the Pants." The song was the #1 most downloaded song on Itunes in the electronic music category, and an international hit appearing on the charts in America and many other countries including Australia where it rose to #4.
Adele Givens A star of the Def Jam Comedy group.
Judy Gold Judy Gold gets around. It's pretty hard to miss Judy these days. She's the saucy, gregarious host of HBOs "At the Multiplex with Judy Gold" and is a regular fixture on Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn" and "Hollywood Squares." She can often be seen gabbing with the girls on "The View" and reminiscing about the past and counting down the greatest videos and celebrity moments on "VH-1's All Access." Judy's half hour special "Comedy Central Presents: Judy Gold" continues to receive high ratings as does Comedy Central's recent special, "Tough Crowd Stands Up." And if you think Judy has forgotten her roots... think again. She was recently featured on the BBC and Comedy Central special, "The Heroes of Jewish Comedy," and her one-person show about Jewish mothers, "G-d Doesn't Pay Rent Here," debuted to rave reviews at The Empty Space Theatre in Seattle. Judy also co-starred in the off-Broadway production of "The Vagina Monologues." On the small screen, Judy has appeared on a plethora of shows including "Sex & The City," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno", "Law & Order", "Law & Order, S.V.U.", "The Drew Carey Show", and "As The World Turns", just to name a few. She also co-starred with Glenn Close in the CBS movie of the week, "The Ballad of Lucy Whipple." She is surely no stranger to awards, either. Judy won 2 Emmy Awards for writing and producing "The Rosie O'Donnell Show", and she won a Cable Ace award for her own HBO half hour special. She was nominated twice for The American Comedy Award's funniest female stand-up.
Whoopi Goldberg Versatile stand-up comedienne and performance artist Whoopi Goldberg gained the attention of Hollywood with her eponymous show of character sketches. With her trademark dreadlocks, gravelly voice and blunt, hip-yet-compassionate style, she was unconventional star material to be sure, and the ups and downs of her career clearly represent the attempts of producers to smooth over what they consider to be her rough edges. She made an auspicious feature debut with an atypically subdued but very moving performance in Steven Spielberg's controversial film, "The Color Purple." She gave an Oscar-winning performance as a fake psychic medium in the 1990 boxoffice hit, "Ghost." Her unusual and considerable talents, and her earthy, straightforward persona have kept her extremely busy from hosting two Academy Awards ceremonies to performing in the low-key romance, "Corinna, Corinna," voicing Shenzi the hyena in "The Lion King" and playing a lesbian in the road film, "Boys on the Side."
Dale Grand Dale Grand is a multi-talented comedian, who has appeared in every area of show business - nightclubs, hotels, TV, movies, cruises and corporate functions. He has played all the major nightclubs and resort hotels from the Desert Inn in Las Vegas to the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City. Dale has shared the bill with such stars as Engelbert Humperdinck, Pat Boone, Lou Rawls, Ray Charles, Vic Damone and Frank Sinatra, Jr. He has also appeared in a number of revues including "Radio Daze” at Westbury Music Fair and “Vegas to Broadway”, which had a very successful six week run in New York City. His TV appearances include “Late Show with David Letterman”, "The CBS Morning Show", "Good Day, New York", the "Barney Miller Special" and the "Morton Dean Show" along with numerous commercials. He is a very popular after-dinner speaker across the country, and has done testimonial dinners for many dignitaries including one for Elizabeth Taylor at the Waldorf Astoria in New York. He has also appeared in over 25 motion pictures, including "Quick Change" where he did a scene with Bill Murray. Dale Grand, Esq. is not only funny and talented, but he is a class act who will provide you with a memorable event.
Gary Greenberg Besides being seen on Comedy Central and Bravo, Gary is the author of three books, the best-selling The Pop-Up Book of Phobias, The Pop-Up Book of Nightmares and Self-Helpless.
Dick Gregory Well known comedian and social activist.
Eddie Griffin With DysFunKtional Family, Scary Movie 3 and My Baby's Mama out on DVD, Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo coming in August and a starring role in New Regency's comedy Romantic Comedy currently shooting, Eddie Griffin is now enjoying the film career that he always planned. He is best known to television audiences as the star of UPN's hit comedy series Malcolm & Eddie. Griffin was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for "Best Actor in a Comedy Series" for his portrayal. He also wrote and directed four episodes of the sitcom, one of which starred his mentor, Richard Pryor.
Kathy Griffin Emmy nominated Chicago native, Kathy Griffin, a multi faceted performer with a rapid fire wit, is probably best known for her four year stint on the NBC sitcom "Suddenly Susan" as Vickie Groener, Brooke Shields acerbic colleague. After moving west and joining the famed Los Angeles Groundlings comedy improvisational troupe, Kathy began building her resume with guest starring roles on such series as ER and Seinfeld" where she created recurring character Sally Weaver. After her various TV guest spots, Kathy began gaining notice as a stand-up comedienne and landed her own HBO Half Hour Comedy Special. In 1998, HBO gave Kathy her own One-Hour Special, "A Hot Cup of Talk". Kathy has supplied voices for characters on the animated series "Dilbert" and "The Simpsons", and she appeared in a dual role on the "X-Files" as well as in Eminems video, "The Real Slim Shady", which was co-directed by Dr. Dre. Kathy has co-hosted The Billboard Music Awards three years in a row; and appeared on numerous talk shows including "Late Night with David Letterman", "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno", "Howard Stern" and "The View", as well as having been featured in the films "Its Pat" and "Four Rooms" among others. Kathy has a great passion for reality TV. She participated in, and won "Celebrity Mole" on ABC, and then hosted the NBC reality series "Average Joe" as well as the MTV series, "Kathys So-Called Reality". Kathy has performed two very successful stand up specials for Bravo. The first in 2005 called Kathy Griffin...Is Not Nicole Kidman and the second in May of 2006 called Strong Black Woman. Kathys DVD stand-up special "Allegedly" is in stores now. In August 2005 Kathys reality show, Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D-List, debuted on Bravo to rave reviews. The second season of Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D-List" was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Reality Program.
Kyle Grooms Kyle Grooms is an intelligent comedian whose material crosses over to all audiences. He recently performed in New Faces at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal and appeared on Comedy Centrals Premium Blend and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn. He has been prominently featured on Chappelles Show and was the host of the Comedy Central special Straight Plan for the Gay Man and was selected to showcase for the 2005 NACA National Conference in Minneapolis. Next up for Grooms is serving as the host of a developing show on VH1. Other credits include: I Love the 80s, I Love the ‘70s, Worst Songs Ever, Best Week Ever, BETs Comic View, Comedy Picante, Showtime at the Apollo and The Bob and Tom Radio Show.
Arsenio Hall Well known comedian, actor and television talk show host.
Darrell Hammond Darrell Hammond as Repertory Player Now entering his eighth season on “Saturday Night Live,” Darrell Hammond is best known for the many impressions he has brought to the show. His impressions have been applauded by television critics and viewers alike for their uncanny accuracy and range. After playing President Bill Clinton for most of his time in office, Hammond has taken over playing practically the entire Bush Administration from Vice President Dick Cheney, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, Attorney General John Ashcroft, Secretary of State Colin Powell and Homeland Security Chief Tom Ridge – sometimes in the same sketch. Hammond performed as Vice President Al Gore in a performance so telling that it was used as a reference in preparation for the 2000 Presidential debates. Other political highlights include Jesse Jackson and New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Hammond has also played media figures including Dan Rather, Ted Koppel, Geraldo Rivera, Sam Donaldson, Bob Costas, Tim Russert, Phil Donahue and Chris Matthews of MSNBC’s “Hardball” as well as celebrities (Sean Connery, Jay Leno, and Regis Philbin).
Kevin Hart What do people usually say about Kevin Hart? Well aside from the fact that he can remember about as much as a rock, he is quickly becoming one of the hottest comics and actors hitting the Hollywood scene. While touring the college circuit, Kevin is always busy juggling his stand-up, acting and writing skills for both his new TV series as well as his comedy routine. From everyday stories about relationships to being trapped on a mountain in a blizzard in Colorado, Kevin's ability to relate his hilarious antics captivate his audiences and leave people rolling in the aisles. After successfully reaching his goal of making a name for himself in comedy clubs and on college campuses (although no one is sure how, considering he's only 5'4"), Kevin has started to make waves on both TV and the big screen.
Dennis Haskins For over a decade when your students were kids, they awoke to Saved By The Bell on NBC’s #1 rated Saturday morning line-up. Eventually syndicated on TBS and in over 87 countries around the world, the times and troubles of Zack, Kelly, Slater, Lisa, Jessie, Screech, and of course, Mr. Belding, captivated your students. Mr. Belding was the voice of calm and wisdom, as well as humor to them growing up. He was the principal they always wanted. Today actor & story teller Dennis Haskins brings the world of “Saved By The Bell” back to them through “Mr. Belding on Campus” with entertaining stories about “…Bell” and meaningful leadership and motivational messages based on Dennis’ career pursuit. With an acting career that spans 4 decades and a business resume that also includes programming on college campuses and music promotion and management, Dennis understands what it takes to deliver an entertaining and inspiring evening to students. Because it’s their beloved Mr. Belding, students line up in droves before to see the show, and after to get autographs. In addition to SBTB stories, Dennis shares the hard knocks of pursuing a dream and motivates students to get involved and take chances while in school. His program is multi-dimensional, multi-media, interactive, fun and inspiring, and guaranteed to fill any facility. As one of the most recognizable figures from their childhood television days (AOL voted Mr. Belding as the #1 principal on TV!), Mr. Belding makes an impact on the students at your campus. They listen to him. While many will recognize him as this prominent Saturday morning figure, Dennis Haskins has much more to offer as a live speaker to America’s college campuses. Mr. Belding having been the moral compass for Zack, Kelly, Slater and the crew, gives your students the opportunity to receive some real world advice and experience and from Mr. Belding’s real world counterpart, Dennis Haskins
Jon Heder Jon Heder stars as the title character in Napoleon Dynamite, which is probably the best film ever. Already a cult classic, Napoleon Dynamite includes some of the most unforgettable characters ever created. The film is about Napoleon Dynamite, a tall, gawky high school student, who lives in Idaho with his eccentric family, and is one of the most unforgettable film characters ever created. Napoleon's quest to help his friend Pedro win Student Body President demonstrates the magic and unique skills inherent in everyone, even those society deems "uncool." Through being true to his own personality, Napoleon is able to realize his dreams.
Ed Helms Ed Helms was born and raised in Atlanta. After attending Oberlin College in scenic Ohio, he headed for New York City to pursue comedy. For years, Helms worked in the comedy trenches as a stand-up comedian which led to regular spots at NYC's top comedy clubs. His television credits include Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, numerous national voice-overs and a 2002 Super Bowl Budweiser commercial appearing opposite Dale Earnhardt, Jr. In the world of acting, Helms has written and performed sketch comedy with numerous groups over the years and studied improvisation with "The Upright Citizens Brigade." Helms can still be seen regularly performing at The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in New York City. Ed recently wrapped a four year stint as senior correspondent on the Emmy-Award winning The Daily Show with John Stewart. Ed has also written a feature film for Paramount Pictures. Ed can now be seen as a recurring character on NBC’s The Office, and will be seen in the DreamWorks feature film Evan Almighty opposite Steve Carrell.
John Henton After five years on the Fox hit television series "Living Single," John Henton has earned a name for himself as one of today's leading comic talents. Through the lovable and sensible character of "Overton Wakefield Jones," Henton has found a loyal and endearing following.John Henton, Comedian and rest of cast of "Living Single" As seen at an appearance on Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Henton's appeal goes beyond the character he played on television as he captivated the audience with his observational and topical humor. John Henton has returned to series television on the ABC comedy "The Hughleys." Now with the character of Milsap, he continues his success into the new millennium.Born and raised in Cleveland, John never entertained the thought of a career in comedy. In 1982, while working during the day and studying computer science at night, he was urged by a co-worker to try his jokes at a local comedy club's amateur night. By his second night, he won the amateur night contest and began stand-up part time. John made the move to Los Angeles in 1985 and by 1988 started his stand-up career full time.John Henton After taking his comedy on the road for a year and winning the 1991 Johnny Walker National Comedy Search, he was spotted by "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson" comedy executive, the late Jim McCawley, who booked him for a performance on the show.As he finished his set, John looked to Carson for his approval and received much more. He was called over to take a seat on the coveted couch where Carson asked him if he had an agent. To John's reply of "no," Carson mugged, "Well you will after tonight." It was a performance that John says gave his career a "serious jump-start."Since then John Henton has made appearances on "The Arsenio Hall Show" and "Bob Hope's Young Comedian's Special" as well as returning to "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." In January 1993, he starred in his own half-hour comedy special for Showtime, "John Henton: Comedy With An Attitude.In April of 1993, he was cast in the FOX-TV series "Living Single" starring Queen Latifah and Kim Fields Freeman. The show received stellar ratings and TV Guide selected Henton's character as one of the "break out" characters of the 1993 fall season. When the show came to an end after five years, John was proud and pleased with the work he had done on the show.Even though he is now headlines his own concerts in venues around the country, John has opened for such big names as Little Richard, Paul Rodriguez, The GAP Band, The Pointer Sisters, Kool & The Gang, Kenny Loggins, Kenny G, etc.
RenĂ© Hicks RenĂ© Hicks is an internationally known comedian, has over 600 college appearances to her credit. She is determined to use her comedy to make a difference. She’s a comic with a social conscious. Most comics have comedy “acts”, RenĂ© has comedy “activism”. Her goal is to always provide quality entertainment that is not only hilarious, but helps lead to the break down of barriers that can contribute to cultural/social isolation and intolerance, with the end result being human solidarity - all people united in the recognition and strengthening of our common bonds. “There’s so much â€politically correct’ rhetoric about diversity and multiculturalism, with very little result of actually bringing people together on a lasting basis--laughter can bring people together.” Whether she is making you laugh about the experiences we have in common or making you laugh about the differences, the message is the same--“We need a lot more laughter in this world and a lot less of the dumb crap that divides us.”
Richie Holliday Richie Holliday is many things: entertaining, silly, irreverent & charismatic, but mostly funny... very funny. described by peers as one of the most vibrant performers on the circuit, audiences everywhere are falling in love with his laid-back, yet quirky lifestyle. With a whimsical intuition and a subtle dose fo reality, Richie weaves through the absurd and thought-provoking seamlessly. He's shown he doesn't need to force feed his humor, it comes naturally. The ease in which he allows people into his silly world is refreshing. Though most will identify his talents as a performer, Richie's ability to craft a joke shows his unique thought process. Combine these abilities and you've got one of the most requested comics touring today. Richie Has performed for HBO and ABC as well as touring with the likes of Weird Al Yankovich, Tommy Davidson and Drew Hastings. His DVD "They call me Squishy" is quite popular among college students all over the country.
Alex House Alex House was destined to be a comedian. She was born and raised on Long Island, fertile soil for comedians of the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O'Donnell & Lenny Bruce. In addition, growing up without a TV forced her and her brother to entertain themselves by mimicking skits from Johnny Carson, The Carol Burnett Show and Saturday Night Live, that they had seen while sleeping over friend's house's. By age 16, Alex had mastered the fife, French horn and being funny. She almost got kicked out of her 7th grade Halloween dance for coming dressed as "Buckwheat" from the SNL skits with Eddie Murphy who was her comedic influence at the time. "It never crossed my mind that I was being politically incorrect, they didn't even have that term at that time! I was just a 7th grader who wanted to be Eddie Murphy. It was my way of paying tribute to a man who made me laugh until I peed! I knew all of his comedy albums inside and out and would edit the cursing out of them so my mom could listen to him!" She attended Kutztown University where she pursued a degree in Art Education so she could finger paint and color instead of writing thesis papers. "People were always surprised to find out I was an Art major, they said I didn't look like one. What does that mean? Must I cut off an ear for anyone to take me seriously?" While working as a Resident Assistant and Orientation Staff Member, she was dared to get up at a college coffee house and try stand-up. She's been hooked ever since! Fast forward to the present: Alex is a two time winner in the Bud Light's Ladies Of Laughter Comedy Contest, has participated in the Toyota Comedy Festival, Boston Comedy Festival and the Arizona Women's Funny Fest. She has also been on ABC's "The View" twice in the course of two weeks and was one of the East Coast Semi-finalists chosen out of thousands of comics on NBC's "Last Comic Standing". When she's not performing comedy, she studies acting with coach JoAnna Beckson whose past students include Ray Ramano, Dave Chappelle and Brett Butler.
D.L. Hughley Star of the hit television show, "The Hughley's" and popular comedian, D.L. Hughley humorously deals with subjects like violence in white schools, gun control, the battle of the sexes, the state of the black family and the differences between black and white cultures and attitudes.
Gabriel Iglesias Gabriel Iglesias is a Mexican-American standup comedian from San Ysidro, California. He is best known for making fun of his obesity and his ability for impressions. His opening joke is "The 5 kinds of fat": Big, Healthy, Husky, Fluffy (which he says he is) and "DAAAAAAAMN!" He has made several guest appearances on such television shows as The Tonight Show, My Wife and Kids and in his own half hour special on Comedy Central. He was a series regular for one season of All That on Nickelodeon where his most notable role was portraying Bill Clinton. Iglesias was a finalist in the fourth season of the reality television series, Last Comic Standing. In the July 11, 2006 episode, which depicted the series' regular roast segment, Iglesias was chosen as the roast subject. He was evicted before that episode's elimination round, however, after it was discovered that he had violated the terms of the contestants' contract several times, having not only broken curfew, but having violated the rules against unauthorized outside communication more than once. Whereas the contestants are allowed one phone call every two days on the residence's house phone, on which conversations are monitored by the producers, Iglesias was discovered having smuggled a BlackBerry into the contestants' residence, and then, after the BlackBerry was confiscated, having used a payphone to call his girlfriend at approximately 3 or 4am, during which he revealed some of the contents of the roast competition.
Victoria Jackson Squeaky-voiced comedienne Victoria Jackson is perhaps best known for being a cast member of the NBC television sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live from 1986 to 1992, but she also makes sporadic film appearances.
Erin Jackson Equal parts sarcasm and insightful commentary, Erins comedy offers an honest and hilarious look at her life and the world in which it takes place. Since making a name for herself in the comedy clubs of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD, Erin has garnered national attention with appearances on "The Bob and Tom Radio Show" and Comedy Central's Live at Gotham. Erin was also the winner of the Oxygen Network's 2007 "So You Think You're Funny?" Contest. Although her universal appeal is certain to take her far, Erin is in no rush to achieve celebrity status. She is, however, looking forward to the day when she becomes famous enough to move to Hollywood, buy a mansion and marry a White woman the ultimate symbol of success for black celebrities.
Ron Jeffreys Nationally known hypnotist and entertainer who casts his spell over audiences with his enchanting sense of wit and humor. In addition to performing hypnosis for entertainment purposes, he travels the country demonstrating the positive health effects of hypnosis. He conducts seminars to help people in non-medical areas such as smoking, weight-loss, self-esteem, memory improvement and meditation.
Lil JJ Lil JJ, star of Nickelodeons hot new TV show Just Jordan, is taking the comedy world by storm. Dubbed The Prince of Comedy, this Little Rock, Arkansas native won BETs Coming to the Stage at the early age of fourteen and has been performing ever since to sold out audiences throughout the country. In addition to his live engagements, he has had show stopping performances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno as well as Showtime at the Apollo. On the big screen, Lil JJ has starred in such movies as Beauty Shop with Queen Latifah and Yours, Mine and Ours with Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo. JJs introduction to Hollywood had him competing on and winning, Coming to the Stage, BET's comedy competition game show where he went up against and beat comics more than twice his age to become the show's ultimate winner. JJ was a run-away favorite on "Stage," where the celebrity panel deemed him to be "The Next Superstar of Funny."
Tommy Johnagin Tommy Johnagin started stand-up at the age of eighteen, dropping out of college at twenty-one to become a full time comedian. Tommy vows he will one day make enough money to pay his parents back for the six semesters of college he wasted. Tommy is an autobiographical comedian who doesn't curse on stage and has a gift of finding something funny in everyone he meets and everything he does. Tommy takes great pride in his writing as he is a medium energy act without the gift to sell a joke with actions alone. Tommy is already a favorite at comedy clubs all across the country working almost every week. In 2007 Tommy was invited to the prestigious "Just For Laughs" comedy festival in Montreal, Canada where he was the highest reviewed "New Face."
Will Jordan Popular comedian and impressionist.
Ronnie Jordan From the very start funny man Ronnie Jordan has proven that hes a comedy force to be reckoned with. After only a year on the comedy scene, the kid voted Most Wittiest in high school was crowned Rookie of the Year in 2001 by the famed Uptown Comedy Corner in Atlanta. As one of the country’s hottest up-and-coming comedians Ronnie is quickly making a name for himself as a comics comic who has shared concert dates with stand-up heavyweights Rickey Smiley, Bruce Bruce, Mike Epps, and a host of others. A crowd favorite, he held it down as the opening act on the Queens of Comedy 12 city tour; the Miller Lite King and Queens of Comedy Search Tour; the Crown Royal Comedy Soul Fest Tour featuring R&B music legends Earth, Wind, and Fire. No stranger to television, Ronnie has been featured on Comic View, as well as HBOs P.Diddy Bad Boys of Comedy.
Robert Kelly Robert Kelly is an American stand-up comedian. Kelly resides in Manhattan and frequently performs at the Comedy Cellar. Robert Kelly often appears on Opie and Anthony on XM Satellite Radio. He has also appeared on Last Call with Carson Daly, Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn, and Premium Blend. In 2003, Bob Kelly was voted the Breakthrough Stand-Up of the Year on CringeHumor.net [1]. In 2006, Kelly toured with comedians Dane Cook, Gary Gulman, and Jay Davis on the cross-country tour entitled Tourgasm. Despite breaking his leg, he managed to finish the tour which is airing on HBO as a comedy documentary series in June.[
Jamie Kennedy Setting himself apart from his contemporaries as an actor, writer and producer, Jamie Kennedy is proving that talent and versatility can be parlayed into success in several different forums of entertainment. Kennedy co-wrote and starred in the Warner Bros. hit film "Malibu's Most Wanted." Kennedy's character in the film, B-Rad is based on the one that he created and portrayed on his popular WB television series "JKX: The Jamie Kennedy Experiment," where he wears three hats as star, writer and producer. The show recently concluded its third and final season.
Andrew Kennedy One fun Kennedy family tradition was the ritual 'Cleansing' of personal items (or as it was more commonly referred to: 'Tag Sale of Tears') where all the most revered possessions (like GI Joe Action Figures, Tonka Trucks, Big Wheels and such...) would be sold at a profit, before moving to another country. This of course leading to deep-rooted abandonment issues (not from the Kennedy boys as much as their toys). Andrew is the middle of three boys. He lives with his wife and two young sons in their Connecticut home. The house is about an hour from New York City where he currently performs weekly as a headliner at all the major clubs. Andrew can be seen on "The World Stands Up" (Comedy Central), "Premium Blend" (Comedy Central), "Comic View Best of" (BET) and some independent films which will undoubtedly come back to haunt him when he makes it big..
Daniel Kinno Daniel Kinno's trademark style of observational humor mixed with his zany and youthful delivery has made him a favorite across the country. Born and raised in Russia, Daniel lends an unusual and hilarious perspective to everyday events ranging from dating to college life. At the Montreal "Just for Laughs" Festival, Daniel Kinno was called one of the top new young comics nationwide. He has been seen regularly on Comedy Central, MTV, GSN and WB. He recently starred in a national ESPN commercial and is currently co-starring in a new hit show "Boys Behaving Badly."
Jessica Kirson Jessica Kirson's unique style and captivating stage presence captures the attention of audiences and club bookers everywhere she performs. Her wide variety of characters brings a diverse energy to her routine. Once you have seen her amazing talent, it is easy to understand why she was selected to perform at the Hamptons, Toyota, and Marshall's Women in Comedy festivals. She has been featured on various television shows including, Comedy Central's, "Premium Blend" and "Fresh Faces", Nickelodeon's, "Sixth in the Suburbs", Noggin's, "LOL", VH1's, "Awesomely Bad Hair," "Awesomely Bad Love Songs,' "Awesomely Bad #1 Songs", "Awesomely Bad Breakup Songs," Oxygen's premier game show, "Can You Tell?", Bravo's, "The Great Things About Being", The Women's Television Network's, "She's So Funny", and NBC's, "Last Comic Standing seasons 2 and 3." Jessica can be seen at clubs and colleges all over the United States receiving rave reviews. Between her hilarious characters and amazing crowd work, she will be wowing audiences across the country for years to come.
Robert Klein A career in entertainment was not a "legitimate" pursuit for a middle class kid born in the Bronx, even though his father, Ben, was a good livingroom comedian, and his mother, Frieda, was a show business fan. So, Robert Klein graduated from Dewitt Clinton High School and entered Alfred University as a pre med student. At Alfred he joined the college's acting company and graduated in 1962 with a B.A. in Political Science and History. But the acting bug hit hard, and Robert's drama professor convinced Ben Klein that his son should pursue an acting career. Yale Drama School beckoned, and Klein was on his way. Robert Klein finished a year at Yale, followed by summer stock. The following fall, in order to earn a living while paying his dues at New York City clubs, Klein took a job as a substitute teacher. In 1965 Robert Klein auditioned for the famous Chicago "Second City," became a member of the troupe, and there he spent the single most important year of his career. Klein returned to New York as a seasoned member of "Second City," was seen by producer Mike Nichols and chosen for a role in his Broadway musical, Apple Tree. Two more Broadway shows followed, and in 1970, he starred in Comedy Tonight, the CBS summer replacement for Glen Campbell's show. In 1973, Robert Klein released his first album, Child of the Fifties, an ingenious collection of material which brought Klein to a vast audience and won him a Grammy Award nomination for Best Comedy Album of the Year. Two more albums followed, including Mind Over Matter, also nominated for a Grammy, and New Teeth. Klein's most recent album, Let's Not Make Love, was released in 1990 on Rhino Records. Probably no single event is more indicative of Klein's success than his first sold out concert at Carnegie Hall in 1973, The First Annual Robert Klein Reunion. In 1979, Robert Klein returned to Broadway in grand style with a Tony nomination for Best Actor, and a Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for his performance in the hit musical, They're Playing Our Song. During this time, Klein began hosting The Robert Klein Radio Show, an internationally syndicated comedy rock show. Klein's movie credits include The Sisters Rosensweig, Hooper, One Fine Day, Next Stop Wonderland, Primary Colors, How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days, and many others. Robert Klein has also frequently guest starred on such programs as Murder She Wrote, Frasier, Law and Order, and Mad About You, among others. From 1986 through 1988, Klein hosted Robert Klein Time on the USA Network, which was nominated for seven Ace Awards. He currently hosts New Joke City on the Metro Channel. Robert Klein is currently writing a book for Simon and Schuster.
Jen Kober i have been in development for about a year now trying to get a project up and running that was both funny and informative for prime time tv. after writing and re-writing and taping several pilots for different shows, the idea for big dish was born. i wanted to fuse together my passion for comedy with my love for cooking into an original reality style sitcom. we shot a pilot, showed it to some big wigs and they loved it! once we had the money to make it happen, we pulled out all the stops. i got on the ball - assembling my dream cast and crew to make what I think is a killer new comedy that is deliciously funny.
Michael Kosta Michael has appeared on Comedy Centrals Live at Gotham, and at the HBO/ US Comedy Festival in Aspen, Colorado. Currently he can be seen on TBS performing “bitcoms” during commercials and on Showtime’s ‘Live Nude Comedy’ (no he is not nude). He can be heard on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Radio Show and on The Playboy Comedy Channel on XM/ Sirius Satellite radio. Michael is also coming back for his second season to host another ten episodes of “CCHA All Access” on the Fox Sports Network. Michael lives in Los Angeles where he hopes to soon become famous and forget all the little people
Cathy Ladman Popular comedian and actress.
Lisa Lampanelli Dubbed by The New York Times as the "Lovable Queen of Mean," Lisa Lampanelli is a no-holds-barred insult comic. Her ability to make people laugh at their own stereotypes and differences helped her conquer the club scenes in both New York City and Los Angeles. Her popularity skyrocketed in 2002 when she was the only female comedian invited to skewer Chevy Chase on the NY Friar's Club Roast on Comedy Central. Since then she has become a staple of the Comedy Central Roasts for Jeff Foxworthy, Pamela Anderson, and William Shatner. In addition to her success on Comedy Central, Lisa is a regular on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Howard Stern's Radio show. She appeared on Comedy Central's "Last Laugh 2005" and her one-hour special, "Take It Like a Man." As one of the few white comedians to perform on BET's "Comic View," Lisa has cemented her huge crossover appeal. Lisa has also taped several specials for VH1, MTV and CMT, and with frequent spots on Sirius satellite radio. Lisa can be seen in "Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector," in which she plays a foul-mouthed dirty broad. She also starred in "The Aristocrats," in which she played a foul-mouthed dirty comic. This fall, Lisa will tape her new stand-up special, which will air on Comedy Central in the first quarter of 2007. She will also be in the feature "Delta Farce" starring Bill Engvall, Larry the Cable Guy and D.J. Qualls, which is also set for release early next year.
Bobby Lee Bobby Lee is notable for his membership in the recurring cast of comedians on the live comedy series MADtv. As an American of Korean ancestry, he is the shows first cast member of Asian descent, he has played Asian and Asian American celebrities and political figures including Kim Jong-il and Connie Chung. Hes also played non-Asian roles including John McCain, Seth MacFarlane (as Stewie Griffin from Family Guy), Jai Rodriguez, and The Penguin from the Batman series. Lee performs regularly at the legendary Comedy Store in West Hollywood, California.
Jay Leno Jay Leno has been the host of NBC's Emmy-winning "The Tonight Show" since May 25, 1992, following in the footsteps of legendary late-night hosts Steve Allen, Jack Paar and Johnny Carson. Jay has created his own unique late-night style with a combination of humor, talk and entertainment each night at 11:35 p.m., the start of the wee hours when viewers want to wind down with a few laughs before drifting off to dreamland. Jays everyman style and personality have helped him earn millions of fans all over the world, but primarily at home in the states where people can relate to his personable style and work ethic. He has been touted as one of the nicest people in show business, and the hardest working a winning tandem for the man who says anyone can have a life, but careers are hard to come by! One of the country's premiere comedians, Jay has appeared in hundreds of comedy shows around the United States for the past 20 years. He remains passionate about performing in front of live audiences and appears regularly in Las Vegas, on college campuses around the United States, and in other venues.
Richard Lewis Well known comedian and actor, Rchard Lewis is probably best known for his role as himself on HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm" with Larry David
Wendy Liebman Up and coming young comedian who has starred in her own HBO comedy special and on Comic Relief. She has won The American Comedy Awards "Best Female Stand-up Comic" award and has made regular appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
C.L. Lindsey In 1998, attorney C.L. Lindsay III, left his practice in New York City to found the Coalition for Student & Academic Rights (CO-STAR). Since then, acting as its Executive Director, he has built CO-STAR into a national student rights organization that helps thousands of college students with their legal problems, free of charge, each year. C.L. is a nationally recognized expert and leader in the field of student rights and academic freedom. His syndicated column, Ask CO-STAR is distributed nationwide on Knight Ridder/Tribunes College Wire Service. The column, published weekly, has become one of Knight Ridder/Tribune's most popular features. He is also the author of The College Student's Guide to the Law: Get a Grade Changed, Keep Your Stuff Private, Throw a Police-Free Party, and More! published in August 2005 by Taylor Trade Publishing. He has appeared on national television, radio and has been featured in countless regional and national publications, including US News & World Reports, The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Review of Higher Education, The Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, The Cleveland Plain Dealer, New York Daily News, Newsday, CBS News Radio, Radio Times with Marty Moss-Coane (NPR), The Sally Jesse Raphael Show, College Bound Teen, and The Christian Science Monitor. He graduated magna cum laude from Denison University, and received his J.D. from the University of Michigan. In his spare time, he teaches courses in Law and Literature at the University of Pennsylvania.
Jamie Lissow Jamie Lissow is one of comedys fastest rising stars, having made appearances on the Tonight Show and Comedy Centrals Premium Blend. He was nominated twice for Campus Performer of the Year, giving him the opportunity to perform at over 200 colleges. Jamie has also been featured in The Nobodies of Comedy, our annual comedy showcase of the future starts of comedy.
Roger Lodge As the host of BLIND DATE, television's most successful syndicated dating program, Roger Lodge is a dating expert extraordinaire (in watching the show, you'll notice he's also adept at recognizing when people are making fools of themselves). In addition to the often hilarious commentary he shares between video dates on the comical show, Roger writes a dating column for popular publications such as Mademoiselle, Glamour, Seventeen, and Elle. While lecturing on campuses across the country, Roger provides students with a humorous behind the scenes glimpse of BLIND DATE, by showing film clips and outtakes and by telling anecdotes that might even make Hugh Hefner blush! During his funny and entertaining lecture, Roger also discusses dating do's and don'ts with his audience.
George Lopez Well known Hispanic stand-up comedian.
Loni Love Just how funny is comedian and actress Loni Love? Ask both Variety and Comedy Central, both of which have named her among their Top 10 Comics to Watch, or Campus Activity magazine, which honored her as its Hot Comic for 2009. Love is not only one of the most hilarious and lovable comics performing stand-up on the comedy club and college circuits but also a busy TV host, guest and actress who has also appeared in films and dramatic plays. Love starred in her own half-hour special for Comedy Central in 2007 and has also been seen on the channel's "Premium Blend," "Weekends at the DL" and "Chocolate News". Her many television appearances include "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn," "The Best Damn Sports Show Period", VH1's "I Love the 70's/80's/90's," "Vh1's The Great Debate" and "Comics Unleashed" among numerous others. Love has enjoyed a recurring role on the Nickelodeon show "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide" as well as guest starring roles on UPN's "Girlfriends" and the CBS sitcom "Worst Week." She was host of the "E! Wildest TV Show Moments" and guest host on "GSN Live,". In 2009 Loni became a CNN correspondent for the show "D.L. Hughley Breaks the News" covering the inauguration of President Barak Obama as well as doing correspondence for the "Dr. Oz Show". Currently Loni is a regular panelist on E!s hit show "Chelsea Lately" and TruTV's "The Smoking Gun Presents: The World's Dumbest". Loni taped her first one hour special for Comedy Central " America's Sister" set to premiere 2010. Loni's first love is performing for live audiences. She puts it quite simply "I love to make people laugh!"
Brad Lowery Brad Lowery has long been a favorite at Colleges and Universities across the country. He averages over 200 College performances per year and was nominated for Comedian of the Year 4 times in a row. He's been seen on A & E 's Caroline's Comedy Hour, Star Search and twice on NBC's Showtime at the Apollo. He's opened for acts such as Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and Tommy Davidson. This past year he's been doing the audience warm up for The Queen Latifah Show on Fox and can be seen on the Fox Television special entitled Comedy Flava which first aired in November. Brad currently resides in the New York City area and has a black belt in karate. Lowery also has opened for comedians Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, and Tommy Davidson.
Angelo Lozada Popular Hispanic comedian and actor who has appeared at such famous comedy clubs as Caroline's, The Comedy Cellar and The Comic Strip.
Stephen Lynch Whether he's singing an ode to an ailing grandfather (and the inheritance that his death will bring), breaking up with a girlfriend because of her racial make-up (she's just "too white"), or opening the door to his mind to let the voices inside his head sing out, Lynch is a self-proclaimed "musician trapped in the body of a comedian." His unique blend of musical based comedy has earned him fiercely loyal fans around the world who live to experience his sold-out live shows, three best-selling CDs and DVDs, and his top-rated Comedy Central Specials. Raised in Saginaw, Michigan, Stephen is the son of a former nun and priest. He admits to actively entertaining friends and family since he was a child. True to form, Stephen graduated from Western Michigan University with a B.A. in Drama, and found his talent as a comedic songwriter. Stephen moved to New York in 1996, with the goal of becoming a performer. While temping during the day, Stephen wrote songs and performed at clubs and underground music venues around Manhattan at night. He quickly developed a devoted fan base and became a regular on the wildly popular "Opie & Anthony" radio show. The radio exposure, matched with Stephen's live shows and rabid following, turned the heads of the Comedy Central Network, which invited Stephen to record his 1st special in 2000. That special became one of their highest rated performances, almost unheard of for an unknown.
Norm MacDonald Fired in bitter haste from Saturday Night Live and following up with two career-crippling film credits, Norm Macdonald's career has been spiraling into disaster since 1997 -- "or so the Germans would have us believe." Though he began his career as a stand-up comedian in Ottawa, most people's familiarity with MacDonald derives from his three-year stint as Weekend Update anchor on the ever-enduring Saturday Night Live. Realizing that a change in location was the key to success, MacDonald packed his bags and took his routine to L.A, where he continued to refine his specific brand of acerbic wit through his stand-up act. In addition, MacDonald became a writer for the popular sitcom Roseanne, as well as The Dennis Miller Show.
Kathleen Madigan Kathleen Madigan is one of the most popular headliners in the country. An American Comedy Award winner for Best Female Stand-Up, her accessible and unpretentious style has earned her a devoted and growing following. Count Lewis Black among them - he called her "the funniest woman in America." Unlike any other female comedian working today, Kathleen resonates with a broad base of fans from coast to coast. She packs theaters from Nevada to North Carolina and everywhere in between. Her standup specials on HBO and Comedy Central have earned rave reviews and her latest CD/DVD "In Other Words" was one of the most downloaded comedy albums of 2006. She is a regular guest on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with David Letterman, VH1, E!, and CNN. She is a mainstay on Comedy Central where she recently debuted a new one-hour special and appeared on The World Stands Up, USO Comedy Tour, The World Comedy Tour, and Comedy Central Presents as well as Lewis Black's "Root of All Evil." Kathleen recently served as a talent scout on NBCs Last Comic Standing and is the host of her own weekly show on Sirius Radio Networks, The Kathleen Madigan Show. She is the only 5'2" Mid-Missouri Hoop Shoot Champion in recorded history.
Bill Maher Whether skewering Republicans, Democrats, the mass media or Hollywood, Bill Maher is one of the most perceptive and hilarious satirists at work today. From the podium he delivers his trademark blend of devastating social commentary and politically incorrect humor that always leaves audiences begging for more. Bill first gained fame as the host of ABCs Politically Incorrect, which featured celebrities, pundits and politicians discussing current events with enlightening and often hilarious results. He is now the host of Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO, as well as the worlds first Internet-exclusive talk show on Amazon.com, Amazon Fishbowl. Like his shows, Bills lectures provide an entertaining and insightful look at the world that will amuse and stimulate every audience.
Howie Mandel Howie Mandel's versatile career has encompassed virtually all aspects of the entertainment spectrum, ranging from television to film and stage. From his work on the Emmy Award-winning St. Elsewhere to the international (and also Emmy-nominated) Bobby's World, Mandel has become a mainstay of the American comedy scene Currently the host of the hot game show Deal or No Deal, and the Canadian version, Deal or No Deal Canada, Mandel started his career on a dare during a trip to Los Angeles. He was at the legendary Comedy Store on amateur night and was coaxed by his friends to get up and try his luck. As fate would have it, there was a producer in the crowd who immediately hired him to appear on the comedy game-show Make Me Laugh. His appearance on the show led to talk-show appearances, a stint as Diana Ross' opening act and, to the television series St. Elsewhere, where he spent six seasons as Dr. Wayne Fiscus. Mandel's Emmy-nominated animated children series Bobby's World ran eight seasons and now appears in syndication six days a week in 65 countries. As the series' creator and executive producer, Mandel was closely involved in its writing, as well as providing the voice of Bobby, Bobby's dad and other characters. Mandel attributes the show's success to drawing the storylines from real life. Mandel has done countless comedy specials both on cable and network television. He has also hosted his own syndicated talk show The Howie Mandel Show, and continues to be a mainstay on the talk-show circuit. He frequently appears on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, performing his signature hidden-camera bits. He also is one of the first people that Regis Philbin calls to fill in for him when he takes a vacation from Live with Regis and Kelly. Mandel also continues to perform as many as 200 concerts a year throughout the United States and Canada.
Bob Marley Celebrating 15 years as a stand-up comic, Bob Marley is one of the hottest and most sought-after comedians in the country. He has been featured in his own special on Comedy Central, and is one of the few comics to do the complete late night TV circuit: The Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan OBrien and The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson and Craig Kilborn. Marley, a Maine native and University of Maine at Farmington graduate, uses biographical and observational material for his high-energy routines. He began his career in his hometown of Portland, and then moved to Boston to gain experience in a city known for spawning comedy all-stars.
Demetri Martin Demetri Martin dropped out of NYU School of Law to pursue comedy. Since then, he has performed in most of the English-speaking countries in the world (not in South Africa or New Zealand, though) and won trophies for comedy in America, Scotland and Australia. Martin was a staff writer for "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and has appeared on a lot of late-night television shows, both onstage and in the audience. He made a stand-up CD/DVD, "These Are Jokes," which was released via Comedy Central Records in 2006 and his "Trendspotting with Demetri Martin" has been a featured segment on the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning The Daily Show with Jon Stewart since December 2005. Martin was featured in his own one-hour stand-up special for Comedy Central, "Demetri Martin. Person." (which was also released on DVD by Comedy Central Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment). His show, Important things Demetri Martin -- a fusion of original sketch and stand-up -- debuted on Comedy Central in February 2009. Future projects for Martin include the lead role in the upcoming Ang Lee film, "Taking Woodstock," for Focus Features (slated for release this summer). He is writing the feature script, "Will," for Paramount Pictures. He is also co-writing, with James Bobin, the feature script, "The Moon People," for Sony Pictures with Mosaic Media Producing. Martin is also planning to clean up his apartment some time in 2009.
Jackie Mason Well known comedian and actor.
Chris Mata Chris was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. In addition to earning a black belt at the age of 17, he worked his way through public school by manning the cash register at a local McDonalds. His very first attempt at standup comedy was in front of a J.C. Penney, at a mall talent show. Unfortunately, he lost to a saxophone player. Then Iin 2001, just three years into comedy, Chris became a finalist in the San Francisco Comedy Competition. In 2004, He moved to New York City, for its stage time and development possibilites. Where else in the world would he be able to stand severe humiliation night after night in complete anonymity?
Ralphie May Known for his Hip-Hop brand of comedy, Ralphie May has his ebonics and quick wit down pat, which has earned him roles in such urban films as "for da love of money and gas". He has gained notoriety from being an equal-opportunity offender with a political incorrectness and plain-spoken truth-telling in his routines that is reminiscent of rap. Most recently, Ralphie participated in VH1's first season of "Celebrity Fit Club," in which eight celebrities bravely stepped forward and acknowledged that they have been losing the battle of the bulge. Ralphie has struggled with his weight since he was a teen. At the beginning of "Celebrity Fit Club", he weighed in at 481 pounds and has since dropped to about 400 pounds. Ralphie May's popularity exploded after the success of the first season of NBCs hit reality series, "Last Comic Standing," when America thought he was robbed of the winner's title. But, coming in second place did not stop him from becoming one of the most popular comedians in the country. Ralphie rails about the Hollywood bias against overweight people, It isnt a fat joke its a prejudice joke. In his act, he talks about the time he auditioned for the role of a fat person, only to be told he was too overweight. Too fat to play fat? And he describes the time he did a showcase for one of the late-night talk shows and they told him he was the best comic of the bunch, but that because of his size hed never get booked. Comedy is not about appearance, its about rockin a mic, he says. Are they laughing? Thats the only test.
Reggie McFadden Well known comedian, entertainer and actor.
Bernie McGrenahan Bernie McGrenahan’s â€Happy Hour’ Hailed by the Los Angeles Daily News “the most important comedian in the country today” , Bernie McGrenahan’s â€Happy Hour’ tour is impacting high school and college students across America. ABC, NBC, FOX and CBS cover this powerful speaker’s tour which addresses the number one substance abuse problem on college campuses today, high-risk drinking.After opening Happy Hour with his hilarious stand-up comedy show, Bernie shares the facts of how his college party got â€out of control’. He reveals how his”social drinking” escalated to “high-risk” drinking rapidly, and the consequences that followed.He encourages students to avoid excessive consumption, motivating them to follow a more healthy and productive way of life. Bernie addresses the social norm of how much alcohol students actually drink, acknowledging that most students of legal drinking age do consume alcohol moderately and responsibly. Happy Hour is comedy…with a message. It inspires students to achieve their dreams by dealing with life’s obstacles in a positive way. Happy Hour brings a motivating, uplifting and poignant message not only to students, but also to individuals of the community.This website is full of televsion stories, newspaper articles, and letters of praise that all focus on Happy Hour Comedy and how powerful the program is.
Carlos Mencia Carlos Mencia takes no prisoners. In his show, Mind of Mencia on Comedy Central, the critically-acclaimed comedian mercilessly skewers the current and the cultural, whether in the studio, in the audience, out on the street, or in commercial parodies. One of the most popular comedians in the country, Carlos has sold out live concerts at venues throughout. He has a no nonsense point of view and the ability to connect with a diverse audience by pointing out societys hypocrisies.
Jim Mendrinos Jim Mendrinos, a versatile comic and writer living in New York City, has been one of the most sought after comedy writers of his generation. He started writing and performing his stand-up at the age of 19, sharing the stage with future stars Chris Rock and Colin Quinn. Soon after he began touring across the country with Sam Kinison and Bill Hicks, all the while honing the comedic skills that audiences have come to love. As a performer Jim has appeared on Comedy Central, and is one of the most sought after club acts. He is a regular performer at Gotham Comedy Club, and has performed internationally. He has appeared on Comedy Central, HBO, NBC, and FOX. Jim is also one of the most sought after comedy writers, having contributed jokes to touring comedians such as Rodney Dangerfield and Joan Rivers. He has contributed jokes to many late night television shows; including SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE'S WEEKEND UPDATE featuring Colin Quinn. He was the sole writer for USA NETWORK PRESENTS: THE PROBLEM CHILD, Staring Gilbert Gottfried. Jim was also the first talent coordinator for Gotham Comedy Club, and is a respected industry expert who has lent his opinions and observations on comedy to publications such as The Daily News, Newsday, Daily Variety, Time Out New York, and the BBC. He is also a columnist for the industry publications "Two-Drink Minimum" and "Sheckey Magazine."
Seth Meyers The New Hampshire-born Seth Meyers graduated from Northwestern University and soon joined the improv/sketch comedy group Boom Chicago, which performed in Chicago, London, Amsterdam, Edinburgh and Singapore. Meyers also performed with Chicago's Improv Olympic, which has been used as a springboard by many other SNL cast members and writers. During a performance at the Chicago Improv Festival, he caught the eye of SNL producers and was soon hired as a featured player. In addition to contributing to numerous sketches, Meyers appears in the recurring "Jarrets Room" sketch as DJ Jonathan Feinstein as well as co-hosting the Irish talk show "Top O The Morning" as William Fitzpatrick, opposite Jimmy Fallon's Patrick Fitzwilliam. He has also contributed notable impressions of Hugh Grant, Russell Crowe, Tobey Maguire, Democratic Presidential candidate John Kerry and NBC News' Stone Phillips and Brian Williams.
Marilyn Michaels Popular comedian and impressionist.
Finesse Mitchell In 2003 Finesse Mitchell was asked to be a feature player on NBCs Saturday Night Live. In 2005 he was promoted to cast member. And long before Finesse became a cast member on SNL, he made quite an impact in the world of stand-up comedy. His witty sense of humor, Southern charm and stage presence makes him one of the brightest young stars on the comedy horizon. Finesse was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and is a graduate of the University of Miami. As a former student-athlete who was a walk-on for the University of Miami football team, Finesse played two years with other Hurricane Alumni like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Warren Sapp. Finesse is also a distinguished member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated and admits playing football and performing in college step shows helped foster his ability to feel comfortable performing in the spotlight. Finesse made his first television appearance on B.E.T.s Comic View in 1999 where he instantly became a favorite among the show's loyal followers. Shortly after Comic View Finesse moved to both Los Angeles and New York City where he had several appearances on The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn and two on The Late Show with Conan O'Brien. This sparked high demands from universities, corporate events, and concert promoters all over the U.S. and internationally. And just when things were getting better and better, Finesse was offered his very own Comedy Central Half Hour Special and is now headlining the best comedy clubs on the circuit. With the help of Quincy Joness son, QD3, Finesse has made his stand-up comedy available in DVD form entitled,SNAP FAMOUS, which is currently in stores now and available online on Amazon.com, FinesseMitchell.com, and Fye.com. Finesse is also a talented writer and offers incredible and honest relationship advice in Essence magazine which serves over 1 million subscribers. Along with his column, Finesse has just completed his first book entitled, YOUR GIRLFRIENDS ONLY KNOW SO MUCH, (Simon Spotlight) giving dating advice to African-American women. "Whats new with me since my days at SNL? Hmmm... well I just finished my third movie called MAD MONEY starring Queen Latifah, Katie Holmes and Diane Keaton due out in 2008. Yep... I blessed the three Divas with a small cameo in their film since I had a tiny break in the schedule. And, they actually begged me to do more than what I did but it just wasn't in the budget... or the script. Ha Ha! AND I have two more gut bustin comedies coming to the silver screen: Whos Your Caddy - July 07, starring Big Boi (from Outkast, Wad-up ATL!) and The Comebacks, hitting theaters November 07! God is good."
Jay Mohr Jay Mohr is a quadruple threat. Film, television, radio and stand-up are all among the treasures in the bag of tricks he's been working on throughout the 15-year career he began as a teenager. He has worked with superstars, matching wits and chops with Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, Al Pacino in "Simone," Eddie Murphy in Pluto Nash, and Bill Murray in Speaking of Sex.
Montana Logging & Ballet Co. A musical political satire troupe.
Tracy Morgan Tracy Morgan segued from the completion of his seventh year as a cast member on NBCs Saturday Night Live to primetime as star of his short-lived series, The Tracy Morgan Show. Even after seven amazing years in late night, theres nothing like getting a shot at primetime. On SNL, Morgan most recently popularized two memorable characters Safari Planet host Brian Fellow and the space adventurer Astronaut Jones. Other popular characters include Woodrow, the homeless romantic, and the longtime favorite, Dominican Lou. His impressions include Mike Tyson, The Views Star Jones, Della Reese, Busta Rhymes, Maya Angelou and Samuel L. Jackson. He has also made numerous comedic appearances as himself, both on Weekend Update and in backstage sketches where he grills the guest host with inappropriate questions. Born and raised in New York City, Morgan is a standup comedian, actor and sketch-comedy player, who continually works the national standup comedy circuit while appearing on television and in feature films. After appearing on Def Comedy Jam, he first became well known appearing on Martin as the recurring character, Hustleman. Morgan debuted an hour-long standup special on Comedy Central in August 2002 and contributed a voice to Comedy Centrals Crank Yankers. He also hosted the channels standup showcase, Comic Groove, and in 2002 was named the It Ready for Prime Time Playa by Entertainment Weeklys It List. Morgan recently appeared in a featured role in the film Head of Statedirected by and starring SNL alum Chris Rock. Other movie credits include A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Half Baked, the independent feature 30 Years to Life, How High and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back.
Preacher Moss Preacher Moss is clearly the new prototype for the comedian of these times and the times to come. A writer for "The Damon Wayans Show" and "Saturday Night Live," his comedy stylings are distinguished for being sculptured out of the everyday relevance of life and the rare glimpses of truth we value as reality. He is intellectual, yet humble. He is charismatic and dynamic, but does not have to demand great attention or time because his audiences come to cooperatively listen, laugh and in "special" moments, reflect. Truly this is a rare combination. He is more than a comedian, priding himself on being just a man. Viewed, respected and revered as a man of the people, his words carry life and just as importantly, they carry laughter. Armed with sincerity, intellect and rare comedic ability, Preacher Moss is the "End of Racism" Comedy and Lecture Tour. "Speaking on Truth," Moss has been playing to the hearts and minds of college students and administrators all over the country. With his insight on "racial understanding vs. racial interaction" he has quickly become the funniest social commentator on the college scene today.
Tim Watters Mr. President Uncanny Impersonator of President Bill Clinton Tim Watters' likeness to Bill Clinton has garnered national recognition on such shows as The Tonight Show, Entertainment Tonight, CBS Morning News, CNN, Larry King Live and Dateline NBC. He has also been a celebrity guest on television shows from Japan to Germany, and he has even learned to play the saxophone. A former real estate agent from Florida, Watters recalls, "Not a day would go by when someone wouldn't come up to me and ask if I'm Bill Clinton, or tell me how much I look like the President." He found all this amusing, considering that it all started as a big joke around the office about the time of the presidential election. "Every day, when I would return to my office, there would be another picture of Bill Clinton, on my desk ... so I decided not to let the opportunity pass me by." Watters now pursues the role of Bill Clinton on a full time basis for television, film and special events. To prepare, he wets his hair, applies a gray mousse, and then blows it dry using white hair spray for highlights. The final look is extremely believable, but it doesn't stop there. He is accompanied by an entourage of mock-Secret Service agents-complete with earpieces and sunglasses-and occasionally has a limousine decked out with American flags - with the stereo blasting Hail to the Chief!
John Mulaney John Mulaney grew up in Chicago and began performing at age seven with a children's sketch group called The Rugrats. Most agree that John should have been born 100 years ago as his love of history and old-timey jargon comes through in his improv, stand-up and films. He co-wrote the ECNY award winning short-film Cavalcade of Personalities, which appeared on Comedy Central's Jump Cuts. He is the co-creator of I Love the 30s, now playing on Comedy video. As a stand-up John performs throughout New York City and the U.S., sharing with audiences his dislike of the Liberty Bell and his confusion over "Goths" wherever he goes. In the spring of 2006 John Joined Mike Birbiglia's Medium Man on Campus College Tour, sure to be a hit among liberal arts majors across the country.
Charlie Murphy Charles Quinton 'Charlie' Murphy is the older brother of comedian Eddie Murphy. He is best known as a writer and actor on the American television program Chappelle's Show, as well as providing the voice for Ed Wuncler III in the animated Adult Swim show The Boondocks. He is also a stand up comedian himself. He is noted for having a ridiculously deep bag of "pimperish, prisony" catch phrases. Dave Chappelle once said Murphy is "just as funny or funnier than a comedian." Murphy's most famous contribution to the show is the Charlie Murphy's True Hollywood Stories sketches (spoofing the eponymous E! Entertainment Television show). In these, Murphy recounts his misadventures as part of his brother's entourage, including his encounters with various celebrities; most importantly the late Rick James and Prince. Although wildly successful, in an August 2005 interview with TV Guide, Murphy announced that Chappelle's Show was finished [1]. Murphy was associated with the late 1980s hiphop group, K*9 Posse. The K*9 Posse was Vernon Lynch, Jr. (Eddie and Charlie's half brother) and Wardell Mahone. Charlie Murphy is credited as the executive producer of the K*9 Posse's self-titled album as well as having writing credit on two tracks on the record, Say Who Say What and Somebody's Brother. The latter track is written about Murphy himself reflecting on a relationship with a woman who was caught up in the excitement of being around all the famous people that Murphy associated with. But Murphy comes out on top with the lyrics, "You see I don't mind workin undercover, It's a blessing not a curse to be somebody's brother." Possessing a distinctive voice and an extraordinary talent for verbal illustration, Murphy has done voiceovers for Budweiser radio commercials, Cartoon Network's Adult Swim series The Boondocks and voiced a pimp named Jizzy-B in Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas video game. Recently, Murphy provided the voice for Spock on the G4TV's Star Trek 2.0 shorts. In 2004, Charlie embarked upon a sold out national comedy tour, The I'm Rich Bitch comedy tour featuring Chappelle's Show regulars Donnell Rawlings and Bill Burr. In 2005, his stand up career continued to grow with a sold out follow up tour, Charlie Murphy and Friends, as well as a co-headlining tour with Mike Epps. Murphy and Epps will co-star in Fox Searchlight's Garbage Men, a spin-off of Roll Bounce.
Kevin Nealon With his unique sense of humor, profound dry wit and likable demeanor, Kevin Nealon has established himself as one of the premiere television, theatrical and stand-up comedians of his generation. As a cast member of Saturday Night Live (1986-1995), Mr. Nealon is most recognized for the characters he created, including; The Subliminal Man, Hans and Franz, and anchoring Weekend Update. His extensive television credits include guest appearances on such award winning shows as, The Larry Sanders Show, Fat Actress, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Comedy Centrals, Crank Yankers. Kevin Nealon, who made his film debut in the 1987 romantic comedy, Roxanne, with Steve Martin, has gone on to star in over two dozen comedies, including Happy Gilmore and The Wedding Singer, both with Adam Sandler, Joe Dirt, Anger Management with Jack Nicholson, Daddy Day Care with Eddie Murphy and Grandma's Boy. He is currently starring as Doug Wilson in the critically acclaimed, Golden Globe nominated Showtime series, WEEDS. Mr. Nealons films in 2008 include Steve Carells, Get Smart, Adam Sandlers, You Dont Mess With The Zohan, and in January 2009, Twentieth Century Foxs, They Came From Upstairs. Kevin Nealons first book called, Yes, Youre Pregnant but What About Me?, published by HarperCollins and in bookstores May 2008. Mr. Nealon also stays busy performing stand-up comedy around the country and can be seen in his own Stand-Up Special airing in the fall of 2008. In addition to his acting credits, he is an established and acclaimed writer, garnering him an Emmy nomination for his work on Saturday Night Live. Raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Kevin Nealon has a degree in Marketing from Sacred Heart University and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA with his wife and son.
Bob Nelson Bob Nelson performed his first "stand-up" routine on June 14, 1978. From that day on, he has performed at hundreds of comedy clubs, colleges, corporate events, casinos, theaters, and charity fundraisers. He has performed in such well-known places as Radio City Music Hall, Las Vegas, The Ford Theatre (for President Ronald Reagan), Carnagie Hall and on Broadway! His television credits range from "The Merv Griffin Show" to "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson"... where Mr. Carson remarked after Bob's first appearance, "You won't laugh any harder in five or six minutes, then you did at that guy... Bob Nelson!" Bob has many other television credits including an Emmy Award, that he received for a children's show which aired in Philadelphia. Rodney Dangerfield jettisoned Bob's cable television career by putting him in two of his own HBO specials. "The Ninth Annual Young Comedians Special", where Bob presented his classic football piece, and "It Ain't Easy Bein' Me", where he introduced us to one of his most popular characters... Jiffy Jeff! Bob went on to do two more HBO specials, this time they would be solo performances, the half hour "One Night Stand" and then his innovative one hour special "Nelson Schmelson". Bob has even showed up on the silver screen in Ivan Reitman's "Kindergarden Cop" with Arnold Schwartzenagger, "This is My Life" the Nora Ephron film starring the loveable Julie Kavner, and we can't forget Dennis Dugan's "Brain Donors" with the great John Turturro, the incredible Mel Smith, and of course our own Bob Nelson!
B.J. Novak B.J. Novak, 26, has already established himself as one of comedys most recognized and respected young voices. On NBs critically-acclaimed comedy The Office, B.J. Novak currently co-stars with Steve Carell as Ryan, the cool-headed temp. Novaks contribution to The Office extends to behind the camera as well: he is also a writer and co-producer, and scripted some of its most famous episodes, including Diversity Day and Sexual Harrassment. B.J. Novak is also widely recognized, especially by younger audiences, from his recent work on the MTV hit Pund, with Ashton Kutcher. On that shows highly watched second season, B.J. starred in a number of the shows most memorable pranks. Among other highlights, B.J. played the driving instructor who nearly brought Hilary Duff to tears; the clothing store manager who tried to blackmail Usher; the fashion photographer who asked Bow Wow to pose with a live Bengal tiger; the federal agent who shut down Jaime Pressleys clothing factory; the obsessed fan of R&B star Mya; and many others.
Eric O'Shea Eric O'Shea traveled the midwest doing any show he could... paid or unpaid... then one open mic night at NYC's Caroline's Comedy Club, he got lucky and did the best 10 minutes he had.... It resulted in a coveted "holding" deal with ABC/DISNEY.... So he paid off college, moved to New York City, and discovered sushi.... When the deal ended, and still immature, he jumped into the wonderful, exciting world of the "college market"... 13 years later, he is still doing it, loving it, and won the "2007 National College Comedian of the Year" voted by over 5000 campuses nationwide.... He has kept busy traveling during that span, averaging over 70+ schools every year, along with CORPORATE SHOWS, FESTIVALS, and THEATRES----and he can oddly place every highway on a blank U.S. map.... Then one night, tring to combine his broadcasting background with comedy, he created his "Songs for Commercials" bit, which not only got over 3 MILLION hits on YOUTUBE, but also a RAVE review from Mr. Steven Spielberg.... He was so honored and simply in awe of how fast the sketch spread all over the world.... People have even written from Dubai, Iraq, and Australia.... He doesn't know where they are on a map.
Conan OBrien Conan O?Brien is best known as host of NBC's late-night talk show/variety show Late Night with Conan O'Brien. O'Brien is scheduled to take over for Jay Leno as host of The Tonight Show in 2009.
John Oliver John Oliver was born and raised in England, Great Britain, in the year of punk 1977. His passport lists his occupation as 'comedian' and as we all know, passports never lie. He has worked as a stand-up comedian around the UK entertaining and irritating audiences in equal measure for the last 7 years, and has regularly taken shows to the Edinburgh Festival. With his friend and long time collaborator Andy Zaltzman, John wrote and starred in three series of 'The Department' for BBC Radio 4. It centered around a three man 'think tank' who each week solved one of the world's major problems. Hopefully one day it will be available on CD, but as things stand it looks like that will be the same day that you can first don ice skates and pirouette across the fiery rivers of hell. They also wrote and presented 'Political Animal' where they linked the satirical material of various stand-ups with sketches which included firing themselves out of a water canon at a crowd of protestors, contracting bird flu and getting into a gun fight with the Queen. In the course of his career, John has received no awards worth mentioning but did receive a letter of complaint from Buckingham Palace, which is clearly a lot better. When The Daily Show with Jon Stewart came knocking at his door, John flung it open and jumped into their arms with a relish which made all parties slightly uncomfortable. He is very pleased to be coming to ply his trade in your country, as to be honest he had all but burnt his bridges in his own.
COMEDY CENTRAL ON CAMPUS This year Comedy Central on Campus features Christian Finnegan, stand-up comedian, writer and actor widely recognized for his sharp commentary as a panelist on VH1’s “Best Week Ever.” His other credits include his own half-hour special "COMEDY CENTRAL Presents: Christian Finnegan," “Chappelle’s Show” "The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson" and regular appearances on NBC's "Today Show." The tour also features appearances by Pablo Francisco, Zach Galifianakis, Greg Giraldo, Jesse Joyce, Tracy Morgan, Aries Spears, Nick Thune, and more.
Patrice ONeal Patrice O'Neal grew up in Roxbury, MA across the street from the projects. Even though the buildings on both sides of the street were brick and looked just alike, Patrice and his friends let the kids from the projects know the distinction - Patrice's and his friend's buildings were privately owned and they took pride in that. The pickup football games became "Projects vs. Private Property" - the trash talking that went on during those games honed Patrice's early comic sensibility. In high school Patrice's talent in football was recognized and he was recruited by the coach at Northeastern University. But Patrice hated playing football... he really wanted to be a comic. And so it was. He attended Northeastern University, but studied theatre arts. He never played football again. Patrice got his first real taste of standup at a place called "Estelle's" in Boston, where he heckled a comic. The comic suggested maybe Patrice thought he could do better. Patrice did - the following week, Patrice went up at the club and brought down the house. From there he went on to work at The Comedy Connection and then moved to working at most of the clubs in and around Boston, New England and New York. Now, years later, Patrice has a wide range of comedic tools - from whispers and tiny facial expressions to animated movement and shouting. In one bit, Patrice at 6'5" and 300+ lbs, makes the audience hear and almost see the story of an eastern gymnast quietly speaking of her difficult upbringing and training. The Boston Globe said, "It is a hilarious piece, made all the more so by the contradiction between O'Neal's very visible presence and that of the tiny, tough white girl he is playing". Asked to whom he aspires, Patrice mentions only two names: George Carlin and Richard Pryor; Carlin for his distinct point of view and universal appeal; Pryor for his honesty, vulnerability and personal revelation. Patrice has appeared on many many TV shows in the USA, and will be appearing on the Comedy Factory for Dutch TV. He is making his debut appearance at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is set to become one of the regular visitors to the UK Comedy Circuit.
Patton Oswalt Patton was Entertainment Weeklys "It" Comedian for 2002. Variety chose him as one of ten "Comedians to Watch" in 1999. He opened for Aimee Mann and Michael Penn on their 2000 Acoustic Vaudeville Tour, touring the U.S. as well as London and Dublin. He's a regular panelist on Late Night w/ Conan O'Brien and co-hosted on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Patton's Comedy CD Feelin Kinda Patton received rave reviews upon its release in the summer of 2004. He's written for FOXs "MAD TV" and MTVs "Austin Stories." His short film, "A Pack of Gifts Now", won honorable mention at the 1999 Sundance Film Festival. Hes also written for The MTV Movie Awards, VH-1 Fashion Awards and the MTV Video Music Awards. His next CD "Werewolves and Lollipops" comes out this summer on Sub Pop Records. Patton is featured in the films "Reno 911:Miami", "Starsky and Hutch", "Blade III" and "Zoolander". And he can be spotted in the films "Down Periscope", "Desperate But Not Serious", "Man on the Moon", "Run, Ronnie, Run!", "ZigZag", "Calendar Girls" and "See This Movie". He also played doomed skin diver Delmer Darion in Paul Thomas Anderson's Magnolia. His TV appearances include "Seinfeld", "NewsRadio", "The Man Show" and "Crank Yankers." He is featured in numerous VH-1, Comedy Central, and MTV "list" specials. Patton also appears on Lewis Black's "Root of All Evil." The ChildCare Action Project, a Christian-based website, gave both of his 1/2 hour specials "red" alerts, especially for Patton's focus on "male demon anatomy".
Michael Palascak Michael Palascak (Pal-a-sack) really likes to make people laugh--mostly because it keeps them from asking why he still lives at home with his parents. This young comedian from the Midwest grew up in Wabash, Indiana—“The First Electrically Lighted City in the World.” Most recently Michael performed at The Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. He also performed at Caesar’s Palace in The Comedy Festival in Las Vegas and was the winner of HBO’s Lucky 21 Stand-up Contest. He also won the Chicago region of Comedy Central’s Open Mic Fight and went on to make his Comedy Central debut on Live at Gotham this summer. Having trained at The Second City in Chicago, IO, and Annoyance, Michael also recently debuted his one-person sketch show in Chicago--Pursuing Happiness: A bunch of scenes about people that moved out of their parents' house, got a real job, and got married. Performed by a guy who didn't. Onstage he shares hilarious, relatable moments about living at home with his parents and avoiding as much “real world” responsibility as possible. His affable, self-effacing persona allows audiences to laugh a lot. Michael has been heard on Q101’s The Ryan and Kevin Manno Program and seen on The Bob and Tom Show. Michael has been seen on WGN—The Bozo Show, Age 9, Large Boot Relay Team Blue (Runner-up). In his free time, Michael plays baseball, watches TV, and compliments his mother on her cooking. Michael dedicates his entire career to his late orange and black goldfish named Tiger that did flips whenever its favorite TV show came on. Michael swears Tiger did a flip. At least once.
Rob Paravonian Sharp, clean, and intelligent, whether he's singing his own songs or deconstructing the ones on the charts, Rob uses music to get the laughs. Rob brings to the stage the best of both worlds: he's a top notch comic with impeccable timing and he's a solid musician with extremely funny songs. He not only takes his audiences on a hilarious ride, he takes comedy to the next level.
Rob Paravonian After growing up in the Chicago area, son of a first-generation Armenian-American school teacher who was also involved with local politics, Rob Paravonian went to college at USC in Los Angeles and now lives in New York . Rob writes and performs comedy and music and is a regualar at New York stand-up clubs and alternative comedy spaces. He also tours the country playing colleges and comedy clubs everywhere from Florida to Alaska, and from Maine to Montana. Rob discovered music at an early age, learning cello at age six and playing it from grade school through to the Waukegan High School Symphony (yes, there was a Waukeagn High School Symphony). At age 10 Rob got his first taste of life on the road when the Grade School Orchestra went to nationals in Nashville, and at 13 he went to Florida with the High School Chamber Orchestra. While in high school, Rob taught himself guitar and bass and began playing in bands, much to the dismay of his music instructors. While he was still underage, he played in bars in Chicago, Milwaukee, and once he went to college, the greater Los Angeles area. Although music had been the bulk of his life up until college, as an undergrad Rob pursued his other passion and studied writing. U.S.C.'s creative writing program was headed by author T.C. Boyle and Rob focused on short fiction and novellas. Rob also found a new love while in college comedy; and he began performing at wide-open shows in artsy cafes in L.A. (the precursor to the alternative comedy trend). Comedy took Rob back to Chicago after college, where he studied improvisation and ensemble work at the legendary Second City Training Center. While in Chicago Rob became a regular at the Improv and began going on the road, playing the midwest clubs and headlining colleges from coast to coast. Not wanting to limit himself to being a touring performer, Rob moved to New York where he has made a name for himself as an intelligent and unique performer. Rob quickly became a regular at Catch a Rising Star, has appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, has written cartoon theme songs, written and performed sketch shows and is on his third solo show.
Lachlan Patterson Originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Comedian Lachlan Patterson now lives in Los Angeles, California where he watches way too much television. "He can turn the most unfortunate events of the human condition into laughs." -Crystal Kuhn, Beyond Robson Patterson's relaxed manner makes for a unique performance highlighting the many mistakes he has made throughout his life. In his spare time Lachlan surfs the internet -- cutting out things other people wrote about him and pasting them in his bio. "Patterson's performance was not only unique and entertaining, but from sitting in the audience, you could see the passion he had for his comedy." Now in his 10th year of performing stand-up comedy, Lachlan is starting to make a name for himself in the industry, and that name is Lachlan Patterson. You can catch his Comedy Central debut on Live at Gotham airing throughout the United States and Canada. Or you can just go to Europe and waste your life away.
Penn & Teller Award winning entertainers and magicians.
Rodney Perry Rodney Perry has a wife and 5 kids, with such a big family “Making It” is the only option. Rodney was born in Chicago raised in Monroe, Louisiana and then ushered into the comedy world in the Bay Area. His Stage show is energy-driven with sidesplitting insights on everything from the work world to the everyday joys…and occasional trials…of family life. Rodney has appeared in the Fox Searchlight Film Johnson Family Vacation (Starring Kings of Comedy Cedric the Entertainer and Steve Harvey). Rodney has made scene stealing performances in several upcoming films, Legac, Redrum and ShowStoppers all set for release in 2007. Most recently Rodney serves as Co-Host of Tv One’s hit comedy competition “Who’s Got Jokes”. Rodney Perrys television appearances include BETs Comic View, Showtimes LAFFAPALOOZA, and Hbos Def Comedy Jam. He has toured with legendary Hip-Hop artist RUNDMC as well as late music icon Ray Charles. Rodney is a McDonalds Bay Area Black Comedy Competition and Festival Champion.
Dat Phan Is the Original Winner of NBCs Last Comic Standing, and is a Headlining Comedian touring live across the U.S. He has made numerous TV and Movie appearances including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Family Guy voiceover, and Cellular. Dat Phan Productions is working on several upcoming projects including a live DVD & CD to be released in 2008, and preproduction on a movie titled Yellow Fever.Dat was born in Saigon, Vietnam and grew up struggling and poor in San Diego, CA. His culturally insightful comedy inspects ridiculous stereotypes, and shares his experience of being a regular American guy with a Vietnamese heritage. He has been included in The Smithsonian Institutions exhibition of The Top 10 Most Influential Vietnamese American Individuals. Dat Phans mission is to bring a more positive portrayal of Asian Americans to mainstream entertainment and Hollywood. We want to be seen as more than just martial artists, or bad stereotype token roles in American TV & Movies. He has performed at countless Comedy Clubs, Universities & Colleges, Casinos, and Corporate events. Notably: Harvard Law, Sacramento Asian Chamber of Commerce, Penn State, Foxwoods, and the U.S. Marine Corps to name a few.
Forever Plaid A musical comedy which has received rave reviews from New York to Japan. Forever Plaid is the story of four unlikely heroes whose dreams of musical glory come true. It concerns the miraculous return to earth of the Four Plaids. This endearing harmony group was snuffed out in a collision with a school bus. Now through a hole in the ozone layer these nerdy crooners with angelic voices come back to do the show they never got to do in life.
Def Poetry The acclaimed late-night series RUSSELL SIMMONS PRESENTS DEF POETRY COMES TO YOUR SCHOOL. The audacious, uncensored late-night series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry returns to HBO with a fifth season. This year the seminal spoken word series presents seasoned and up-and-coming poets performing their work onstage before a live audience, interspersed with a big-ticket lineup of celebrities also trying their hand at poetry.Praised by the New York Times as an "exuberant, daringly fresh series that breaks poetry out of the neat little boxes it's so often put it," Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry features a spectrum of voices.
Kevin Pollack Actor, Kevin Pollak, who starred in films like "Avalon," "A Few Good Men" and more recently, "Juwanna Mann," is also one of the funniest and most seasoned comedians on the stand-up circuit. His observations, as well as his dead-on impressions of people like William Shatner, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lt. Columbo (Peter Falk), make him one of the most sought after comedians in the country.
Paula Poundstone Paula Poundstones insightful musings about the world around her have been catching on like a house afire. She tells the truth and makes it funny - about her life as she lives it, about our public figures and about the little things in life we may have noticed ourselves but never stopped to reflect on. As one of the most popular stand-up comedians in the country today, Paula Poundstone's humor know no bounds. She continually goes where no comedian has gone before: providing backstage commentary to the '93 Emmy Awards telecast, adding humor to the pre- and post-shows for the '94 Oscar Awards, serving as "official correspondent" for The Tonight Show during the '92 Presidential race. As a performer, Paula Poundstone enjoys a uniquely intimate rapport with her audience. Her relaxed, comfortably humorous wanderings from topic to topic turn each show into a brilliant stream-of-consciousness experience. Her off-kilter view of the world and her complete honesty strike a receptive chord and have led to an impressive list of achievements, including: Two Cable ACE Awards, Best Female Stand-Up - American Comedy Awards, and an Emmy Award - as producer/star of a local PBS piece titled Life & Times. Other credits include: her own comedy series on HBO and ABC and numerous special appearances, including headlining the prestigious White House Correspondent Dinner in '92. Paula Poundstone is a contributing editor for Mother Jones Magazine with her own politically-skewed column in each issue for two consecutive years. She has written articles for the Los Angeles Times' Sunday Calendar, Entertainment Weekly, Glamour Magazine and Buzz Magazine and others.
Tony Powell What do you get when you cross the charisma of Eddie Murphy, the irreverence of Chris Rock, and the Old School charm of Bernie Mack? I have no idea, however, I do know that when you add a quick wit, great storytelling ability, and the performance chops of a seasoned pro you have Tony Powell. Like George Washington's unfinished portrait, accidents have a way of discovering pure artistry. While attending the University of Virginia, Tony Powell was asked to calm an unruly audience. Suddenly all those summer afternoons listening to Richard Pryor, and Bill Cosby albums seemed to have purpose. With his trademark quick wit, and clever impressions, Tony released the comedic genie trapped within to the delight of the unruly audience. Who knew at that moment in time that Powell was about to embark on a comedic odyssey that would lead to appearances on The Chris Rock Show , NBC's Showtime at the Apollo and two appearances on A&E's Comedy on the Road. Powell has made several appearances on The Comedy Channel. Powell has also opened for celebrity musical groups such as The Ojays and the Whispers. He has worked as the studio warm-up act for Bill Cosby and Nickelodeon's Keenan and Kel show. As an actor, he has recently appeared on three national television commercials (Visa, Dawn Detergent and Ritz Crackers). Tony was also the radio voice of Mr. Chill for Miller Genuine Draft and the U.S. Army reserves. Powells voice has also been featured in national radio spots for Fila and Heineken. Powell a college favorite as well, has showcased both the NACA Great Lakes and New England conferences. Growing up in East New York, Brooklyn, survival requires one of three things; you either have to be a great fighter, fleet of foot, or be a whole lotta funny. Lets just say, Tony Powell ain't no Ali or Carl Lewis, he is however, a whole lotta funny. Imus introduced Tony Powell on his new radio show WABC AM
Robbie Printz Robbies performance is a reminder of childhood wonders and adulthood absurdities; delivered with high energy and a fast pace that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish.Robbie has been seen on Comedy Central, NBC, MTV, and A&E. The Improper Bostonian named Robbie Printz Boston's best Comedy Act, in their Best of Boston 2003 issue. Robbie won the 2002 Boston Comedy Festival.Robbie has performed at the best comedy clubs across the nation, as well as numerous colleges and corporate events.
Paul Provenza Popular comedian who hosts the Comedy Channel talk show series, "Comics Only." Paul Provenza portrays a doctor on the hit television series, "Northern Exposure" and is a regular on the "Tonight Show" and the "David Letterman Show."
Joe Queenan Author and humorist, Joe Queenan has written such books as, If You're Talking To Me, Your Career Must Be in Trouble; and Red Lobster, White Trash, and The Blue Lagoon: Joe Queenan's America.
Colin Quinn Colin has also appeared in movies, including Who's the Man?, Married to the Mob, The Roxbury Guys and most recently, Comedian. Colin was hired as a writer and feature player on NBC's sketch/comedy show, "Saturday Night Live." September 1997 he became a full-time cast member, showing up on Weekend Update as 'Lenny the Lion' and 'Joe Blow.' He also established the recurring characters 'The Thank you Guy' and himself in the skit 'Colin Quinn Explains the NY Times.' Colin Quinn is currently starring in his own show on Comedy Central called "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn". It is airing now on Comedy Central.
Dan Quinn Dan Quinn, a Russian-born comedian, has worked with Dane Cook, Chris Tucker and Jerry Seinfeld. He has also appeared on Comedy Central, MTV, and the WB, including an appearance on the show Boys Behaving Badly.
Herb Quinones The only Hispanic-American comedian who wears dred locks, Herb Quinones has appeared on BET Comic View. His comedy relates to his trials and tribulations of growing up in New York City.
Louis Ramey Louis Ramey started doing stand up right after high school in Atlanta GA, and then started working the road after about three years of playing clubs in the Atlanta area. I quickly got a spot on "Show Time at the Apollo" which prompted me to move to New York for a short time. Realizing I was not ready for a true New York winter, I started working resorts in the Cayman Islands, St Thomas, St Maarten, and a stint in London. It was at this point clubs started closing all over the country. Louis started doing cruise ships and casinos for almost five years, always thinking of one day moving back to New York. In 1998 he finally made the move with a few thousand and some old contacts to try and make it as a New York comic. In 1999 I won The Aspen Comedy Arts award for "Best New Artist" By 2002 he had done Premium Blend and a Comedy Central Presents Louis Ramey, The View, and an appearance on the Tonight Show. Louis started working for Nick@Nite as Host of the "Road Crew" and stopped performing on the road for four years. When the show ended in 2006 Louis started targeting the college market, that year he did over one hundred college performances and won the 2007 APCA award for Best Standup performer. In 2008 he was a contestant on Last Comic Standing 6 and made it to the final five. That's about it for my history.
Louis Ramey Atlanta born and raised, while in college, Louis Ramey was bitten by the comeday bug. On a dar from his friends, h too the stage to tell a few jokes at a local jazz club. he was hooked immediately to the adrenaline rush of live performance. His US television appearences include Comedy Central Presents: Luis Ramey and Premium Blend. This is one show that shouldnt be missed.
Rich Ramirez Hispanic-American comedian who appeared in all major comedy clubs and cruise ships throughout the world. Rich Ramirez has also appeared on BET, VH-1 Comedy Central and many other television shows. A class Act!
Stuart Rappaport Winner of the 2005 Jewish Week’s Comedy Contest, Stuart is an orthodox Jew whose comedy is a bit unorthodox. He has been doing stand-up for over 15 years and has entertained groups from The Main Street Synagogue, in Columbus, OH to Chabad of the Five Towns. He opened for Modi at the Riverdale Jewish Center last year and will be the featured act on April 5th at the “Ramada Marco Polo” in Miami Beach Florida. Stuart is an Optometrist by profession, and he brings his unique perspective to his comedy. Stuart sings with “The Meshuga-daddies” a barber-shop quartet, acapella group. He has starred in many regional theater productions, from “Fiddler On The Roof” to Neil Simon comedies, such as “Last Of The Red-Hot Lovers” and “Broadway Bound.” Stuart is a cantor for a synagogue in Providence, Rhode Island. He has also written a few original songs, as well as some musical parodies.
Jasper Redd A native of Tennessee, Jasper Redd began his comedy career in the city of San Francisco. Known for his quirks, you may have seen Jasper on Comedy Centrals Premium Blend or performing with his comedy foursome, the Brainwash All-Stars. In 2005 he has hailed as one of the standout New Faces at Montreals Just for Laughs Festival, and has been a featured performer in the Comedians of Comedy U.S. tour.
Brian Regan Critics and peers agree, Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations. Releasing two critically acclaimed hour Comedy Central specials and DVDs in as many years - 2008s "The Epitome of Hyperbole," and 2007s Brian's non-stop theater tour has visited more than 80 cities each year since 2005 and continues through 2009. It is the quality of his material, relatable to a wide audience and revered by his peers, which continues to grow Brian's fan base. With his first appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" in 1995, Brian solidified his place on the show and recently made his 20th appearance. He also includes regular visits with Conan O'Brien on his schedule.
Mike Reiss Mike Reiss has won four Emmy Awards for his work on The Simpsons, the wacky animated series that has kept America laughing for more than a decade and earned Time magazine's vote as "the greatest TV show of the twentieth century." During his eleven seasons on the show, Reiss penned a dozen scripts and produced over 200 episodes. His other television credits include The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Alf, Eddie Murphy's The PJ's and It's Garry Shandling's Show, where he earned an ACE award for writing and producing. Reiss is also the co-creator of The Critic, an animated series starring Jon Lovitz as a lovable movie critic. The well-reviewed series has been running on Comedy Central for five years. Reiss also created Queer Duck, the animated adventures of a gay duck. An Internet hit with rave reviews in the U.S. and Europe, the series recently made the jump to the Showtime network. Culled from more than two decades of creating the funniest and most outrageous shows on television, Reiss' presentation is a unique glimpse inside the cutting edge of entertainment, including rare video clips from The Simpsons and The Critic. He takes audiences inside the lives of Springfield's first family, revealing how The Simpsons was almost cancelled before it hit the air, secret trivia of the show, insane dealings with network censors, and lots of juicy gossip about celebrity guest stars. Reiss also delves into the current state of television programming, describing with his characteristic wit why TV is so rotten and what steps need to be taken to bring the medium back to life. A former editor of both The Harvard Lampoon and The National Lampoon, Reiss continues as a consulting producer on The Simpsons. In addition, he is a frequent contributor to Esquire and Games Magazine, and is an award-winning mystery writer. He has published four children's books, including the surprise best seller How Murray Saved Christmas, a Christmas story for Jewish kids. His latest work is Santa Claustrophobia. He has lectured on comedy and animation at more than two dozen colleges, as well as the Smithsonian Institution.
Jeff Richards Comedian Jeff Richards, a featured player on NBC s variety comedy Saturday Night Live. Before joining the cast of SNL, Richards performed stand-up comedy and impressions in clubs across the country, including The Improvisation and The Comedy Store. He has also appeared on Late Friday and The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn. Richards plays the messy "Drunk Girl" on SNL and does impressions of Bill O'Reilly, Charlie Rose, David Letterman, Garry Shandling, and Kevin Spacey.
Mo Rocca Mo Rocca, contributor to NBC's Tonight Show with Jay Leno and former correspondent for Comedy Central's The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, is known for his wacky, tongue-in-cheek news reports and hilarious commentary. He is regularly seen on VH1's I Love...series. Rocca's book, All the Presidents' Pets, just released in paperback, is a satirical tour-de-force of investigative journalism that blows the lid off of a long-held secret in Washington: the presidents' pets are more than just photo ops. Equal parts All the President's Men, Charlotte's Web and The Da Vinci Code, the book is the journalistic watershed event of the decade. Really. At the podium, Rocca delivers his uniquely informed commentary on current news events and the coverage of them by the "mainstream media," and takes audiences behind the scenes of America's most popular news satire program with never-before-seen clips from The Daily Show and his other television appearances. He also provides the inside story of the pivotal role that presidential pets play in politics, and shines a klieg light on the complacent Washington press corps that missed the hot story. The former president and writer of Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals, Rocca is no stranger to the stage. His acting credits include the role of "Doody" in the Southeast Asia Tour of Grease. Rocca began his career in TV as a writer and producer for the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning PBS children's series Wishbone. Rocca went on to write and produce for other kids series, including ABC's Pepper Ann and Nickelodeon's The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, a pre-school series combining the whimsy of Seuss characters with the magic of Henson puppetry. He served as Consulting Editor at the adult men's magazine Perfect 10. Doing "pre-school by day and porn by night" helped prepare Rocca for the broad range of topics he'd soon tackle on The Daily Show. On The Daily Show, he profiled eccentrics ranging from a man so obsessed with First Ladies that he dresses up as Florence Harding (wife of Warren) to a husband and wife pet mummification team. A regular panelist on NPR's Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me!, Rocca is also a frequent commentator for Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Larry King Live and the Fox News Channel.
Paul Rodriguez Paul Rodriguez career has spanned more than two decades and includes starring roles and featured appearances in over 30 films and countless television series and specials. His first big break came while doing comedy warm-ups for Norman Lear's show "Gloria." Lear ultimately wrote and developed a weekly series for Paul, "a.k.a. Pablo." Paul holds the honor and is enshrined at the Smithsonian as the first television show about a Mexican American Family on mainstream American television. He went on to do two other series, "Trial and Error," and "Grand Slam" for CBS. For four years (1990/94) Paul hosted "El Show de Paul Rodriguez," an entertainment talk show for the Spanish-language Univision Network. The show reached an international audience throughout the United States and 17 other countries in Central and South America. Paul's directorial debut came in 1994 with the film "A Million to Juan," a family comedy in which he also wrote and starred in. In addition, Paul also found time to guest star in several episodes of Showtime's original series "Resurrection Boulevard," and starred in six comedy specials for HBO, including "Loco Slam," "Live in San Quentin" and the most recent being "Idiots and Armadillos," which he also wrote and executive-produced. He also served as host for The Alma Awards on the ABC and the Latino Laugh Festival for Showtime, as well as his own television creations- four specials for the Fox Broadcasting Company ("Back to School," "Behind Bars") Paul segued nicely from television to motion pictures, making his feature film debut in the Universal Pictures comedy "D.C. Cab." Paul also had co-starring roles in Orion Pictures' "Miracles," Paramount's "The Whoopee Boys," Columbia Pictures "Quicksilver," and Universal's "Born in East L.A.", as well as "Made in America." He landed the coveted role of outspoken fight physician Freddie Pacheco in Columbia Pictures big budget biopic Ali for director Michael Mann and Producer John Peters. Other movie roles that followed are New Line Cinema's The Price of Glory, starring Jimmy Smitts, Metro Goldwyn's Tortilla Soup, with Hector Elizondo Crocodile Dundee in LA with Paul Hogan The Shipment with Mathew Modine, Jerry Zuckers Rat Race and Chasing Papi directed by Linda Mendoza Recently he had the opportunity to work with the legendary Clint Eastwood in the Warner Brothers film Bloodwork. Paul was the executive producer and star of the comedy concert film, The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, distributed by Paramount Pictures. His latest film projects include, A Cinderella Story starring Hilary Duff, Badassss directed by Mario Van Peebles, Cloud Nine starring Burt Reynolds and still in theaters, The Worlds Fastest Indian starring Sir Anthony Hopkins and directed by Roger Donaldson. Paul currently is in pre production on two series which were picked-up by VH1 and UPN/ Revolution Studios and just finished starring in a comedy showcase series entitled, The Laugh Factory: Very Funny, set to air on TBS. Paul Rodriguez is an in demand performer with a busy schedule of concerts and personal appearances. As a well rounded stand-up comedian, having honed his craft over the past twenty five years, it is estimated that Paul has performed live to well over one million concert goers from coast to coast building a solid fan base. Within Hispanic communities, Rodriguez is considered to be the Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, and George Carlin when it comes to original comedy. Hands down, he has become the Original Latin King of Comedy. Paul remains strongly rooted in the Latino community, working with civic and educational groups and his main contributions go to the National Hispanic Scholarship Fund (NHSF). Paul also contributes to such charitable efforts as Comic Relief appearing on the HBO's program every year since its inception and hosts the annual Elizabeth Glazer Pediatrics Aids Foundation celebrity Golf Tournament.
Mariano Rodriguez Mariano Rodriguez, who has performed at numerous comedy clubs throughout the country and at the Latino Laughs Festival.
Kivi Rogers Comedian Kivi Rogers was born for the spotlight. He has made guest appearances on many television programs including; "The West Wing", "Dharma and Greg", "Home Improvement", and "Everybody Loves Raymond". He also appeared in the feature film: "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion" with Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino. Kivi showcased at the prestigious HBO/Aspen Comedy Arts Festival after which he landed a development deal with Castle Rock Entertainment to star in his own sitcom. Kivi also performed on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Kivi has also been nominated Comedian of the Year by the National Association for Campus Activities. In 2007, Kivi was selected to be a member of the CleanGuys of Comedy, an ensemble group led by Dave Coulier (Full House)
Freddie Roman Well known comedian and star of the long running Broadway show, “Catskills on Broadway.”
Ray Romano Ray Romano admits that he always knew he could make friends laugh, but he never really gave stand-up comedy any serious thought until one fateful open-mic night at a New York comedy club in 1984. He did well, the bug bit hard and Romano was smitten. After stints at odd jobs, including futon mattress delivery boy and bank teller by day and journeyman comedian by night, he decided to leave the 9-to-5 ranks and pursue comedy full-time, eventually winning a stand-up comedy competition sponsored by a major New York radio station that same year. Following that success, Romano continued to regularly appear at comedy clubs throughout the country, leading to appearances on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson" and then with Jay Leno. He was eventually invited to appear on "Late Night with David Letterman." Following that success, Romano continued to regularly appear at comedy clubs throughout the country,leading to appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and then with Jay Leno. He was eventually invited to appear on Late Night with David Letterman. That night, Letterman, recognizing something very unique in Romanos persona, offered him a development deal with his production company, Worldwide Pants. Through that association, the CBS hit, Everybody Loves Raymond, was born. Romano has not only gone on to star in his own television series, but to perform at the White House Correspondents Dinner for President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, and headline the Toyota Comedy Festival at Carnegie Hall. Romano recently won a TV Guide Award for Actor of the Year in a Comedy Series (2001), as well as the Funniest Male Lead in a TV Series at the 14th Annual American Comedy Awards (2000) and the Television Critics Association Award For Outstanding Individual Achievement in Comedy (1999).
Jeff Ross Comedian JEFFREY ROSS is adored by his fans for going where no other comedian dares to go in his roasts of celebrities such as Pamela Anderson, Hugh Hefner, and Flava Flav. Jeffrey is one of the most versatile talents working in the comedy business today. His stand-up performances at comedy clubs and colleges are legendary. Jeffrey is regularly featured on MTV and Comedy Central. His all new Comedy Central stand-up specials: Jeffrey Ross: No Offense Live From New Jersey, is scheduled to air August 22nd. And as if that wasn't enough, he has had dozens of appearances on the late night shows including Letterman, Leno, Conan and Kimmel.
John Roy John Roy is a unique and positive voice on modern urban life. John began his professional career at the famous Zanies Comedy Club on Wells St. in Chicago's Old Town. He went on to tour the country's best clubs, including the Laugh Stop in Houston, and the Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, where John earned a regular spot in 2002. In 2003, he appeared on the CBS television show, "Star Search," and was its first champion, earning 100,000 dollars and a development deal with CBS. In 2003, John performed at the NACA Central convention and was the most requested act in any category. In 2004, John appeared in the prestigious US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, as a square on "Hollywood Squares," and on HBO. .John has appeared several times on the nationally syndicated "Bob and Tom" radio program, available in over 200 markets. In 2005, John appeared in DVD series called "Live at the Laugh Factory", available in stores nationwide, alongside such acclaimed comedians as Butch Bradley, Bob Marley, Tom Papa, and Tony Rock. John is a regular performer at the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, and the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles and the Hollywood Improv. John appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" in the 2005-2006 season, and a November 2005 episode of CBS' "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson." In 2006, John contributed an essay to CollegeHumor.com that was collected in their nationally released book. John appeared in several episodes of NBCÂ’s "Last Comic Standing" where he advanced to the semifinals of the reality show/ competition. In 2007, John made an unprecedented four appearances in two months on the nationally syndicated TV show, "Comics Unleashed." His CD, "1246 W. Arthur," was released, featuring John headlining at his home club of Zanies in Chicago. In addition, John was recently approved for NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," and will appear on the show in the near future.
Maya Rudolph Saturday Night Live" star Maya Rudolph is one television's most versatile performers. In addition to the brilliant comedic talent she brings each week to "SNL," Maya is also quite adept musically, having sung vocals and played keyboards for The Rentals, a band that's opened for groups like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Garbage and Alanis Morisette (Maya's mom, the late Minnie Ripperton, was also a talented singer.). On "SNL," Rudolph has performed memorable characters such as Britannica of the pop group "Germini's Twin," opposite Ana Gasteyer. She's also known for her portrayal of Megan, a character who hosts the high school morning talk show "Wake Up Wakefield." Maya's film work includes a role in "Duets," which featured Gwyneth Paltrow, a friend of Rudolph's (they were childhood classmates).
Bob Saget Bob Saget He's doing great business in colleges and clubs all across the country and the latest buzz on him comes from his appearance in the undergound hit feature "The Aristocrats". Saget including his recent appearance on the HBO series "Entourage" and hear the rap "Rolling with Saget" in which he is featured with Jamie Kennedy and Stu Stone.
Mort Sahl Well known comedian, social commentator and political satirist.
Andy Samberg Andy Samberg is an comedian, singer, rapper, actor, and writer best known for being a cast member on Saturday Night Live and a member of the comedy group The Lonely Island.
Horatio Sanz Popular comedian and the first Latino performer to join the cast of "Saturday Night Live". Sanz has performed impressions of Jerry Garcia, Rosie O'Donnell and Meat Loaf and has appeared as an orderly in the 1994 movie"Miracle on 34th Street." He recently finished a movie "Boat Trip" in which he co-stars with Cuba Gooding Jr. and he has also starred in the comedy "Tomcats" and in the hit movie "Road Trip".
Mr. Belding From Saved By The Bell Dennis Haskins actor best known for his role as principal Richard Belding in the teen sitcom Saved by the Bell, which ran from 1989 to 1993 on NBC. Before his foray into acting, Haskins briefly worked as a concert promoter, associating with the likes of Earth, Wind, and Fire and Tom Jones. After the end of the original series, Haskins would continue his role with the spinoff "Saved by the Bell: The New Class", until its cancellation in 2000. He has also made guest appearances on a variety of TV series, including The Dukes of Hazzard, 7th Heaven and JAG. Most recently, he appeared in an episode of FX's It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. On the E! True Hollywood Story special on Saved by the Bell, Haskins mentioned his difficulty of obtaining parts, as he is now typecast as Mr. Belding. Haskins grew a moustache to distance himself from the character.
Molly Shannon Another Saturday Night Live cast member who has taken her act to the big screen, Molly Shannon is probably best known to TV and film audiences as Mary Katherine Gallagher, the hapless, armpit-sniffing Catholic school girl she originated on SNL and then brought to multiplexes everywhere as the heroine of Superstar. Born in Shaker Heights, a posh suburb of Cleveland, on September 16, 1964, Shannon developed a proclivity for performing at an early age and dreamt of being famous. After receiving a Catholic school education, she earned a B.F.A. in drama from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, Circle in the Square Studio. Armed with her diploma, she headed West to L.A., where she proceeded to struggle in relative poverty and almost complete obscurity for the next nine years. Although she occasionally found bit parts in film and on such TV series as Seinfeld, Shannon mainly supported herself with odd jobs and waitressing. Finally, in 1994, she got her big break when she won a spot on Saturday Night Live. After making her debut during the 1995 season, Shannon became exceedingly popular with audiences, thanks to her impersonations of the likes of Monica Lewinsky, and Courtney Love. In 1998, Shannon joined fellow SNL cast members Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan to appear in the disastrous A Night at the Roxbury; the following year, she brought her own alter ego to the screen in Superstar. The film earned drastically mixed reviews, although it did fare somewhat better than any number of other SNL film adaptations. Also in 1999, Shannon played Drew Barrymore's newsroom colleague in Never Been Kissed and had a supporting role alongside Robert De Niro, Billy Crystal, and Lisa Kudrow in Analyze This. She subsequently starred alongside Jim Carrey in Ron Howard's 2000 screen adaptation of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas
Rondell Sheridan Popular comedian and actor, Rondell Sheridan stars as Andre, the dad in Cousin Skeeter, one of Nickelodeon's greatest successes. Rondell's also the host of the FOX Family channel's highest rated series, Show Me The Funny.
Pauly Shore Pauly Shore and the world-famous Comedy Store stages a comeback in TBS's Original Comedy Series, "Minding the Store," which premiered July 17, 2006. TBS is giving down-but-not-out comedian Pauly Shore (Encino Man, Jury Duty) the chance to get his mother's world-famous Comedy Store back on track, while also giving his career a boost, in this new original comedy series. "The Comedy Store is the place where such comedians as Jim Carrey, Richard Pryor and David Letterman got their start, so it seems perfectly fitting for television's very funny network to follow its revival," said Steve Koonin, executive vice president and chief opperating officer of TBS. "The show will blend the comedy on-stage at The Comedy Store with the quirkly personalities and offbeat backstage antics of Pauly Shore and his mother, Comedy Store owner Mitzi Shore." "Minding the Store" opens with Mitzi reluctantly handing over the reins of her legendary Comedy Store to her youngest son Pauly, in the hopes that maybe he can pump some life back into it. With his plans of renovations, new promotions and A-list talent, Pauly's goal of making the comedy club great again proves to be a daunting task, especially since his mom just can't seem to let him take over completely.
Michael Showalter Michael Showalter is a man of many talents. His credits as writer, director, and actor have spanned his ground breaking work as an original member and co-creator of MTV's The State and now Comedy Central's Stella. His work includes the cult classic, summer camp comedy Wet Hot American Summer, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2001, and 2005's The Baxter, which Showalter directed, wrote, and starred in. His resume includes appearances on VH1's I Love The 80's, HBO's Sex and the City, NBC's Law and Order, and feature film credits including Kissing Jessica Stein and M. Night Shyamalan's Signs.
Marvin Silbermintz Marvin Silbermintz is a writer for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno has been writing for Leno since 1987.
Sarah Silverman From stand-up comedy to film to television, Sarah Silverman has seen her share of success. Last year, Silverman made an impressive splash when the feature length film version of her one-woman show, "Jesus is Magic," directly by Liam Lynch, opened in theaters to rave reviews. Silverman most recently co-starred in the feature film, School For Scoundrels, opposite Billy Bob Thornton and John Heder for the Weinstein Brothers. Prior to the release of Jesus is Magic, Silverman garnered glowing reviews in the documentary feature The Aristocrats, in which she co-starred with 100 of the industry's most prominent comedians. She appeared opposite Jack Black, Mike White and Joan Cusack in Paramount's The School of Rock and has co-starred in a number of films, including the blockbuster There's Something About Mary, The Way of the Gun, Evolution, The Bachelor and Say It Ain't So. On television, Silverman co-starred in the Fox comedy, Greg the Bunny, opposite Eugene Levy and has guest-starred in acclaimed and notable shows such as, The Larry Sanders Show, Seinfeld, Mr. Show and Crank Yankers. Silverman will also return to host the Independent Spirit Awards in February of 2007.
Sherrod Small Born and raised by his mother and two sisters in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York, Sherrod Small is one of the top stand-up comics coming out of New York City today, appearing at clubs and colleges across the nation. With his witty commentary on politics, culture and city life, Small consistently receives rave reviews for keeping audiences entertained with his remarkable comedic talent and improvisation. His comedy has been quoted in The New York Times and on Fox News. Sherrod currently stars on VH1's popular new show Best Week Ever and AMC's FilmFakers and regularly appears as a guest on NBC's Today show, Fox's The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet and Fox News's Red Eye. He recently performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live and previously appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" and NBC's "Showtime at the Apollo", and has written for and performed on Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn". Sherrod also appeared in Jerry Seinfeld's film "Comedian". In the past he has performed on the Emmy Award winning "Chris Rock Show" on HBO and starred in several prominent television commercials, including the well-known Southwest Airlines commercial "Concert". He has also made several appearances in segments on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien". Sherrod has been featured on various television programs such as "Hard Copy" and "20/20" "Comedians Under Cover", as well as on numerous radio shows including "Radio Chick", "The Scott & Sid Morning Show", "Raw... [MORE] Born and raised by his mother and two sisters in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York, Sherrod Small is one of the top stand-up comics coming out of New York City today, appearing at clubs and colleges across the nation. With his witty commentary on politics, culture and city life, Small consistently receives rave reviews for keeping audiences entertained with his remarkable comedic talent and improvisation. His comedy has been quoted in The New York Times and on Fox News. Sherrod currently stars on VH1's popular new show "Best Week Ever" and AMC's "FilmFakers" and regularly appears as a guest on NBC's "Today" show, Fox's "The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet" and Fox News's "Red Eye". He recently performed on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and previously appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" and NBC's "Showtime at the Apollo", and has written for and performed on Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn". Sherrod also appeared in Jerry Seinfeld's film "Comedian". In the past he has performed on the Emmy Award winning "Chris Rock Show" on HBO and starred in several prominent television commercials, including the well-known Southwest Airlines commercial "Concert". He has also made several appearances in segments on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien". Sherrod has been featured on various television programs such as "Hard Copy" and "20/20" "Comedians Under Cover", as well as on numerous radio shows including "Radio Chick", "The Scott & Sid Morning Show", "Raw Dog" and "Maxim Radio". Internationally he has participated in the Comedy Caf� European Lucky Strike Tour and The Comedy Factory Tour in Amsterdam, culminating with a featured stand-up spot on The Comedy Factory television show. Sherrod has toured the U.S. entertaining thousands of college students with both the New York Comedy Film Festival Tour and the Burly Bear Network Comedy World College Tour and continues to perform for universities and corporate events across the nation. In 2002 he was selected to perform at the prestigious HBO U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, and starred in the VH-1 pilot "Unhappy Hour" with Dr. Joyce Brothers and "Watercooler" with John Henson.
Joshua Smith Leading Black entrepreneur and education advocate, Joshua Smith is Chairman and CEO of Maxima, a highly successful computer systems firm. A self-made millionaire, he shares his search for excellence in a powerful motivational lecture.
Owen Smith Owen Smith - clearly a rarity on the college and entertainment scene. He is the definitive balance, proving relevance can be hip. Surely the freshest talent in America, as evidenced by his mass audience appeal on Comedy Central's Premium Blend, NBC's Friday Night, CBS's Star Search, and the highlight of the Montral Just For Laughs Comedy Festival. For a comedian who not only makes you laugh but also makes you feel equally relevant with his observations of humanity...two words - Owen Smith. "Owen Smith is on the brink of super stardom..." - some newspaper said this - "Not since Bill Cosby has a comic been able to blend real-life experience with comedic perspective..." - my manager said this one - "Owen Smith makes you laugh by exposing his own life to show the universal humor that runs through us all..." - a friend said this after finally seeing my show - "What I like about you is that you were funny without having to be vulgar." - some guy said this to me after my show - "Owen Smith is meticulous, deliberate, and definitive in delivering a superior product..." - my big brother said this one -
Smothers Brothers Popular comedy team.
Kira Soltanovich Kira Soltanovich was born in the former Soviet Union, and raised by immigrant parents in San Fransisco. She has kept audiences laughing throughout standup comedy, sketch, hidden camera and improv. You might have seen her on Girls Behaving Badly, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno or Comedy Central's Laugh Riots. Kira has also spent time entertaining troops across the world.
David Spade David Spade joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1990 as a regular cast member and writer. In 1995, after many of the cast left, Spade stayed to help in the transition with the new cast. Spade returned to host an episode in 1998 and another in 2005. Spade also has a successful movie career highlighted by his work with fellow "Saturday Night Live" cast member, the late Chris Farley. His more recent movies include "Joe Dirt", "Grandma's Boy", and "Dickie Roberts Former Child Star". He also played roles in the popular television series, "Just Shoot Me", "Beavis and Butthead", and "8 Simple Rules". David Spade received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday, September 5, 2003. The star is located at 7018 Hollywood Blvd. Currently, David Spade is the host of a new Comedy Central show, "The Showbiz Show with David Spade". On the show, he makes fun of Hollywood and celebrities similar to his old "Hollywood Minute" segment on "Saturday Night Live".
Hal Sparks A native of Peak's Mill, Kentucky, Hal Sparks began his professional career as a member of the famed Second City Troupe. His quick wit and affable personality earned him the title of "Funniest Teenager In Chicago" by the Chicago Sun Times in 1987. After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief's American Comedy Festival. Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning "Talk Soup" on E! Entertainment Television. For five seasons, Sparks co-starred as Michael on the hit Showtime series "Queer As Folk," based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series. In 2006, Sparks hosted the WB reality series "Survival Of the Richest," and is one of the stars of the VH1 hit pop culture series "I Love The 90's," "I Love The 80's," "The 80's Strike Back" and "I Love The 70's." He also co-starred in the Showtime Original feature "Bleacher Bums," adapted from the critically acclaimed play of the same name. In 2004 Sparks appeared in the box office hit "Spiderman 2." He also co-starred in the 20th Century Fox comedy, "Dude, Where's My Car?," "Dickie Roberts, Former Child Star" and "Chopper Chicks in Zombie Town" with Billy Bob Thorton. Sparks also provided the voices for two animal characters, a bee and a fish, in the 20th Century Fox film "Dr. Dolittle 2." His numerous television appearances include "The Tonight Show," "Larry King Live," "Charlie Rose," "Good Morning America," "The View," "Politically Incorrect," MTV, "The Late, Late Show with Craig Kilborn," and "Hollywood Squares." Hal is an accomplished singer/songwriter and an expert in the martial arts with 20 years experience in Shaolin kung fu, Wushu and Karate.
Chris Spencer Chris Spencer is a versatile comedian and actor with irrepressible flair and commitment to his art. The Los Angeles native began his acting career at age six, starring in a national television commercial for Mattel's "Tuff Stuff" toys. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from University of California, Los Angeles, but decided to continue with his real love – performing. Chris Spencer Chris Spencer Chris Spencer co-starred on the television series "Soul Food," and had recurring roles on "The Jamie Foxx Show" and "In Living Color." He has guest-starred on "The Chris Rock Show," "The District" and "Rude Awakenings." He claims to be "almost famous" thanks to his role as the first host of the late-night talk show "Vibe." He brings all of his experiences "with crazy women" to play Devon on NBC/Bravo's hit "Significant Others." His feature film credits include "Two Can Play That Game," "The Sixth Man," "Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood" and "Sin." Chris Spencer has appeared in more than 30 commercials. He hosts "Chocolate Sundaes," one of Los Angeles' hottest comedy shows and a collaboration with his childhood friend and executive producer Leland "Pookey" Wigington. The name of the show represents their philosophy of diversity – the mixture of many ingredients needed for a chocolate sundae. It illustrates the variety of races and cultures seen in the show and in the audience. Comedians, such as Cedric the Entertainer, Chris Tucker, Mike Epps and Jay Mohr frequent the stage with Chris Spencer during the popular show at Hollywood's Laugh Factory. Spencer's stand-up comedy has also been featured on such shows as "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and BET's "Club Comic View." In addition to being an actor and comedian, Chris Spencer is also an accomplished writer. His writing credits include the popular book "150 Ways to Tell if You're Ghetto," the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards, the 2003 ESPY Awards, and the popular comedy specials "Jamie Foxx Unleashed – Lost, Stolen and Leaked!" and "Jamie Foxx: I Might Need Security."
Ben Stein Ben Stein is probably the closest any man comes these days to being a true renaissance man. His financial and economics work was cited in the efforts of the recent Nobel prize winner in Economics, George Akerlof. He is also the host of the long running comedy quiz show on Comedy Central, Win Ben Stein's Money, a show that has won seven Emmies. He has written hundreds of thousands of words about financial fraud and investment policy, but two words made him a household name: "Bueller" and "Anyone, Anyone." ( From his iconic role in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off.") He has written novels that the New York Times describes as "stunning," but what you have probably heard him talk about recently are "dry eyes, red eyes, and clear eyes." He worked and demonstrated and struggled for voting rights for African Americans, and he also was a speech writer for Richard Nixon and for Gerald Ford. He introduced the world to complex concepts of the politics of culture, but he also introduced the world to Jimmy Kimmel and made possible The Man Show. Lawyer, teacher, actor, comic, economist, father, novelist, essayist, expert on finance, meet Ben Stein!
Capitol Steps A rousing musical political satire performed by a talented group of Washington insiders. Appraised by The Washington Post as “the funniest, most ably wrought musical satire this side of Tom Lehrer!”, the Capitol Steps has given more than 300 performances over the past five years. Their shows hit the lighter side of current events and can bring highsprited fun to your next meeting, banquet or college event.
Jon Stewart Jon Stewart is considered one of America's top social and comedic voices. From his anchor chair of Comedy Centrals The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he "has breathed new life into a show that hadn't even seemed to need it," said The New York Times. Since taking over as the anchorman of The Daily Show, his presence has seen higher ratings and awareness for himself and Comedy Central. During the 2000 election year, Stewart and The Daily Show lead the way to the White House as the torch bearers of Comedy Central's Indecision 2000 election coverage that covered the elections, debates and candidates from the Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire primary straight through to the National Conventions and culminated on election night with a one-hour special. Prior to taking over The Daily Show, Stewart's television work was on HBO's critically acclaimed series-within-a-series, The Larry Sanders Show, playing a character he should know very well: himself. The final season saw, among other things, Stewart seemingly being groomed to take over the fictitious late-night throne from the perpetually paranoid Larry Sanders. Stewart also served as a creative consultant on the series. On the feature film front, Stewart starred with Adam Sandler in the hit film Big Daddy. He also starred in the romantic drama Playing by Heart, which marked a departure for him in that he was allowed to show more of a dramatic side of himself than people are accustomed to seeing. Stewart also starred in The Faculty, a horror-comedy directed by Robert Rodriguez. While it may be the conventional route for stand-up comedians to sign a book deal and expound on their early days inside dingy comedy clubs, Stewart took the path less traveled with his debut book, Naked Pictures of Famous People. A collection of fictitious and humorous what-if essays, Naked Pictures has appeared on many bestseller lists including The New York Times. He also wrote The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Presents America: A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction. His popularity continued to grow as he became increasingly comfortable in his role on The Daily Show, where Stewart would take home Emmy Awards for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series in both 2003 and 2004, and Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program in 2004. maintained his dominance at the 2005 Emmy Awards, winning statues for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series and Outstanding Writing for the same category.
Pam Stone Well-known stand up comedian and co-star of the hit television series, “Coach.”
Buzz Sutherland Buzz Sutherland is one of the most sought after comedians in the world today! He is a man who is sincerely and seriously committed to entertaining audiences with humor that is 100% clean and 200% funny. Buzz has been at the very top of the college comedy world for the past 7 years. Recently named Campus Activities Magazines 2004 Comedian of the Year (for the 4th year in a row), Buzz has also been named NACAs Entertainer of the Year (2002), NACAs Comedian of the Year for the past five consecutive years (retiring the award), and APCAs Comedian of the year 4 times & Entertainer of the Year twice. Buzz is described by students and entertainers alike as one of the finest entertainers in the business. Buzz has performed on HBO's Comic Relief and MTV's Half Hour Comedy Hour.
Wanda Sykes A quick-witted comedien who has transcended the comedy scene to become one of the funniest comics to hit the stage in some time, Wanda Sykes' unique blend of stinging humor and outspoken honesty has found her moving beyond a career in standup thanks to notable success in film and television. With an Emmy under her belt indicating a bright and enduring career in the years ahead, Sykes has shown a versatility that has gained her increasing attention on such acclaimed HBO series' as The Chris Rock Show and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Kelly Taylor At just three years into the uncertain world of comedy, Kelly Taylor is feeling pretty comfortable with his decision to give up his mediocre career in hockey and pursue his dream. Kellys ability to headline clubs, corporate and college events at just three years into his career is evidence that this kid is the real deal. Kelly has performed on Just for Laughs. Kelly Taylor Saskatcheewans second best export after wheat!
Carrot Top As for Carrot Top's live show, it has to be seen to be believed. It has evolved into a spectacle of lights, lasers, and music. The evening consists of numerous travel trunks overflowing with bits and pieces of everyday life transformed into creations of reality which everyone can relate to: a Mark Fuhrman belt with a bloody glove attached, a party horn with an inhaler for asthmatics, a briefcase with a credit-card machine attached for O.J. Simpson's lawyers, slippers with bumpers for those nighttime excursions, etc. Each prop is introduced to his captivated audience with a twist of the absurd. With rapid-fire succession, he displays an uncanny accuracy for making people laugh in a carnival-like atmosphere. Yes, that is his real hair and it's naturally this curly. There are some people who honestly think he went into a salon one day with a normal head of hair and said, "Can you screw it up real bad?", and then paid for it. His favorite color is plaid, but he loves all colors and think they should all be worn at the same time. His philosophy on clothing is "Never Match – It's Boring." In case you were wondering, for a brief time he preferred briefs or boxers, but all he can tell you now is "I'm Swinging Like a Pendulum – Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." He is originally from Cocoa Beach, Florida... Talk about a difficult place to get an education. When you get up, it's really hard making the decision whether to surf or go to school. He went surfing more than he went to school. His father worked for NASA and his brother became a fighter pilot after going to the Air Force Academy on a swimming scholarship, and here he is on stage, swinging around a plastic private body part. Now that's giving his parents something to be proud of !!! He considers himself pretty strange. Sometimes he reminds himself of the Kennedys. Maybe he is a Kennedy or even an Osmond. Not because of the freckles or the red hair, of course, but because of his big teeth. As for his transportation, he has a "rot-proof" Carrot-Mobile. And then there are his hundred servants, bowing at his feet. As for the road, what started out as a Yugo and a tackle box has now become 35 fully packed trunks – can't have enough props – in an 18-wheeler, and a tour bus. Carrot Top would have to say his major comedy influences are Jonathan Winters, (you just look at him and have to laugh), and Robin Williams. Don't forget one of his favorites – George Carlin...the MASTER!
Daniel Tosh The unusual mind of Daniel Tosh has earned him the admiration of his peers by winning over audiences with his unique brand of stand up comedy. A quick look at Daniel thus far: Born in Germany... grew up a preacher's kid in Florida... two sisters and one brother... surfer... decent student... bad allergies... began his foray into stand up... UCF graduate... took to the road... lives in Los Angeles on the beach and loves his dog. Daniel will next be seen starring in "Tosh.0," a series he created for Comedy Central set to premiere June 4th, 2009. Daniel is currently one of the most requested headliners in the country. He has also quickly evolved into one of the most popular and successful college acts, having performed at more than seven hundred campuses in his career. Daniels casual style and sharp material have proven to be greatly appreciated by his audiences, young and old (but mostly young). Daniel made his network debut on "The Late Show with David Letterman," and has returned to perform several times since. Daniel has also appeared multiple times on "Tonight Show with Jay Leno." His previous television credits include "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn," " The unusual mind of Daniel Tosh has earned him the admiration of his peers by winning over audiences with his unique brand of stand up comedy. A quick look at Daniel thus far: Born in Germany... grew up a preacher's kid in Florida... two sisters and one brother... surfer... decent student... bad allergies... began his foray into stand up... UCF graduate... took to the road... lives in Los Angeles on the beach and loves his dog. Daniel will next be seen starring in "Tosh.0," a series he created for Comedy Central set to premiere June 4th, 2009. Daniel is currently one of the most requested headliners in the country. He has also quickly evolved into one of the most popular and successful college acts, having performed at more than seven hundred campuses in his career. Daniel's casual style and sharp material have proven to be greatly appreciated by his audiences, young and old (but mostly young). Daniel made his network debut on "The Late Show with David Letterman," and has returned to perform several times since. Daniel has also appeared multiple times on "Tonight Show with Jay Leno." His previous television credits include "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn," "Jimmy Kimmel Live," "Last Call with Carson Daly," "Premium Blend" (Comedy Central), "Best Week Ever" (VH1), "The Test" (FX), "Friday Night Stand-Up" (Comedy Central), MTV'S "Punk'd" and "Live at Gotham" (Comedy Central). In 2002, he taped his first stand up special, "Comedy Central Presents: Daniel Tosh," at the Hudson Theatre in New York City. While still living in Florida, Daniel hosted his own popular late-night television show, "Tens." Daniel has performed at the most significant comedy festivals across the globe. In 1998, he appeared in the New Faces show at the Montreal's Just for Laughs Comedy Festival. Through the great response generated, he was invited to return two years later in his own televised gala at The St. Denis Theatre. In addition, Daniel has also turned in triumphant festival performances in New Zealand and Kikenny, Ireland, one of Europe's largest comedy festivals, as well as multiple trips to HBOs U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado. In 2005, Daniel was named one of Varietys 10 Comics to Watch. When not performing comedy, Daniel surfs, gambles and continues to pursue his interests in acting, hosting and writing. Daniel's premiere CD, "True Stories I Made Up," was released in November of 2005 through The Comedy Records. His hour special, "Completely Serious," premiered on Comedy Central in June 2007. Since then, he was featured in Mike Myers' latest film, "The Love Guru," has hosted "Live at Gotham" for Comedy Central and is enjoying himself touring theatres throughout the country.
Robert Townsend As a passionate visionary, trailblazer and journeyman, Robert Townsend, transcends any medium he touches with a magic that is truly undeniable. Most recently, Robert Townsend, the Hollywood hyphenate added president and CEO of a Television Network to an impressive list that showcases his talents as an actor, director, writer, comedian, and producer. Not bad for a kid raised by a single mother on the rough Westside of Chicago. The second oldest of four children Robert entertained his mother doing impressions of everyone he watched on television. His impersonations were astounding. He could transform into Jimmy Stewart, James Cagney, and Humphrey Bogart and then turn around and do Alfred Hitchcock and Bill Cosby. Robert’s genius revealed itself publicly in elementary school while reading Shakespeare’s Oedipus Rex, where he dazzled the class with his ability to transform effortlessly into characters. His remarkable talent caught the attention of Chicago’s Experimental Black Actors Guild X-Bag Theatre in Chicago. Then it was onto The Improvisation, New York’s premiere comedy club. It was there his career as a stand-up comedian took off. Soon after, Robert hit Hollywood like a ton of bricks performing on various television comedy specials including “Rodney Dangerfield: It ‘s Not Easy Being Me" and “Uptown Comedy Express". Robert also landed roles of a lifetime opposite Denzel Washington in “A Soldier’s Story", Diane Lane in “Streets of Fire" and Kevin Costner in “American Flyers". Unbridled success continued when Robert Townsend the independent filmmaker was born. With no formal film education or outside funding (using his own credit cards) Robert co-wrote, directed, and starred in his own film. The result was the critically acclaimed “Hollywood Shuffle". His next film endeavor was the inner-city fable: "The Meteor Man" that he also wrote, directed and starred. The stellar cast included James Earl Jones, Bill Cosby, and Eddie Griffin. The popular soul musical, "The Five Heartbeats", reminiscent of 60’s R & B male groups was his next cinematic accomplishment. In between features, Robert created and produced the ground breaking- Cable Ace award winning-“Partners in Crime" variety special. Townsend also created the highly praised “Townsend Television" for FOX television-not to mention Robert’s hit WB series in which he also created and starred in- “The Parenthood” was a sensational hit among audiences of all ages. With his career in high gear, film projects poured in as Robert soon found himself directing Hollywood stars such as: Eddie Murphy in “Eddie Murphy Raw"; Academy Award-winners Halle Berry and Martin Landau in "B*A*P*S"; Academy Award-winner Louis Gossett, Jr. in Showtime’s “Love Songs"; and the Disney family film “Up, Up, and Away"! Townsend made history at the NAACP Image Awards in 2001 by directing three performers nominated in the best actor/actress category in three different films: Leon, for his role in NBC’s “Little Richard"; Alfre Woodard in the Showtime Movie “Holiday Heart" (which also garnered her a Golden Globe nomination) and Natalie Cole for her gripping self-portrayal in “Livin' For Love: The Natalie Cole Story" (for which she won the coveted Image Award for best actress). Townsend continued to helm films for the small screen: "Carmen: A Hip-Hopera" for MTV Films, starring Beyonce Knowles, Mos Def, and Bow Wow. "10,000 Black Men Named George" for Showtime, a period piece about the Pullman porter strike, was nominated for an impressive four Image Awards- [starring Andre Braugher, and Charles Dutton] who later went on to win the Image Award for his outstanding performance in the piece. While busy as a performer and filmmaker, Robert always makes time to participate in humanitarian efforts and speak to various organizations. As a longtime speaker for the United Negro College Fund, his concern for inner city youth takes him throughout the country to inspire young people to follow their dreams. In addition, Robert shares his business expertise with various Fortune 500 companies. Today, Townsend continues to reinvent himself as the President and CEO of Productions for the Black Family Channel. During his first five months on the job he has produced eight new television programs including “Spoken", “Souled Out", “The Thousand Dollar Bee", “Lisa Knight and the Round Table", and “The Black College Talent Hour", that run the gamut in content. In his new role as CEO, Townsend aims to change the face of television. “I know it’s a tall order and I’ve set the bar really high, but in order to reach the stars you must set your sights on the moon".
Chris Tucker You might not know Chris Tucker by name, but his constantly running motormouth and bulging bug eyes make him hard to miss on the big screen. Fresh off of a memorable turn in The Fifth Element, he plays a con on the run opposite Charlie Sheen in New Lines new comedy Money Talks, which opens Wednesday. Impressed by his co-star's manic energy, Sheen describes Tucker as "Eddie Murphy squared." Tucker's first taste of stardom came at Columbia High School in Decatur, Georgia. "I was always getting in trouble. Your typical class clown," he admits. "But my teachers liked my humor. They knew I meant no harm." One day, a favorite teacher suggested Tucker take his wise-cracking antics to the stage and host the school's talent show. Instead of being dumbstruck, Tucker was awestruck. "I got up there and did it. Ripped it up. After I heard everyone laughing, I decided this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It was one of the best feelings I've ever had," he recalls. Tucker rips it up again playing schmoozy Franklin Hatchett, the ticket-scalping car-wash entrepreneur who uses his wits to out-con a gruesome team of French diamond smugglers in Money Talks. The twenty-four-year-old comedian's rise to stardom is pretty meteoric considering how long it takes most actors in this town to land a really great table-waiting job. After performing in amateur nights at various comedy clubs in Atlanta, Tucker surprised friends and family by leaving for Los Angeles to pursue stand-up comedy and acting at age twenty. An early lucky break landed Tucker in House Party 3, which eventually led to roles in Panther and the Hughes Brothers' Dead Presidents. His breakout role came as aptly named Smokey in the cult comedy Friday.
Aisha Tyler The elegant Aisha Tyler, has taken quite a journey to end up where is today.She is a graduate of Dartmouth College and soon after fully devouted her time to comedy. You have seen her on E's Talk Soup, The Fifth Wheel as well Friends. She then moved into her acting roots and did more dramatic films and shows. She played in Fx's Nip/Tuck and is now in two of the hottest shows on televison ,CBS' CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' and Fox's '24'. Aisha is very versatile for now she can do comedy and drama and successfully pull it off.
Bob Uecker Sportscaster, humorist and television personality.
Paul Varghese Born and raised in the South, Pauls humor starts at the randomness that is his everyday environment then detours into insecurity and sarcasm only to end up at a nice middle ground of twisted reality. Its said that most comedians were the class clowns in school. Paul was never the class clown. However, he was tormented on a daily basis by the class clowns. So he became a comedian, hoping that one day he might bump into his former class clowns at a comedy club somewhere and exact revenge. Come join him on his journey. He's been seen on Last Comic Standing 2 and Telemundo 2s Loco Comedy Jam.
Lenny Varnedoe Comedy based on "Black Folklore," Lenny Varnedow has appeared on BET and Def Comedy Jam. A very funny man.
Phil Varone Phil Varone is an accomplished drummer, music producer and songwriter best known for his work with the bands Saigon Kick and Skid Row. Varone was born on Long Island, New York and began his fascination with the entertainment business at a very young age. Phil began playing percussion in grade school at the age of 7 and continued into the beginning years of junior high. As a teen, he learned how to play drums. Self taught, he credits listening to his favorite bands and drummers to develop his skills. Although music was an important part of his life, it was just one of his childhood dreams which included acting and stand up comedy. Listening to music, comedy records and watching movies became Phil's favorite past time. After moving to Fort Lauderdale in 1980, he began playing in various local bands. In 1988, he joined together with some of his friends and formed Saigon Kick. The band signed a recording contract with Atlantic Records in just two short years. They earned a Gold Record for the album, “The Lizard” as well as a Billboard top 10 single for the song, “Love is On the Way”. In 1996, Saigon Kick disbanded and Varone stayed busy producing and doing studio work for a variety of artists. In 2000, Varone joined multi-platinum recording artists Skid Row. Together they toured the world with Kiss, Poison, Def Leppard and Tesla and along the way recorded a new record, “Thick Skin”. Additionally, the band produced “Under the Skin: The Making of Thick Skin” which was internationally distributed on DVD. In 2004, Phil left Skid Row and the music business to pursue acting and stand up comedy. After moving to Los Angeles, he spent the first two years producing and starring In the feature length documentary, “Waking Up Dead ” which was released on DVD June, 2007. Currently he is writing and developing tv shows around his passion for cooking, comedy and music. Phil’s other passion for acting and has lead to roles on Californication (showtime), a commercial for Nokia Cellular and an appearance on NBC's Identity, E TV and various short films. Phil also lectures in colleges throughout the United States and is the creator and host of the popular "Sex Stand Up And Rock And Roll Show".
Baron Vaughn Baron Vaughn, actor, comedian and writer Actor, Comedian, Writer. Baron Vaughn. He appeared in Manhattan Theatre Club's "Drowning Crow" on Broadway at the Biltmore Theatre. He started doing Stand-Up in Boston and made the move to New York where he can be seen at various comedy clubs and alternative comedy venues. He's also appeared in numerous national commercials, performed at the 2007 DC Comedy Festival, and the 2006 HBO Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, CO.
Jimmie Walker The term "maximizing one's potential" could have been coined to describe the life of Jimmie Walker. He strode out of the New York ghetto, called the "South Bronx," famed for burnt-out buildings, pervasive neglect and disrepair, determined to educate himself. He worked by day and went to school at night until he finally discovered his Dyn-O-Mite sense of humor. From the tiniest comedy clubs to multiple appearances on "The Tonight Show," Jimmie's starring role for six years on "Good Times" was only the beginning. Today his healthy career includes Las Vegas, national tours, film and television. Jimmie is available for stand-up comedy and/or motivational lectures.
Sheng Wang Taipei born, Houston raised and Bay Area based, Sheng Wang performs comedy inspired by intense honest and ill logic. His refreshingly affable stage presence combined with a healthy penchant for absurdity and self depreciation make his comedy universally hilarious. He is a recipient of last years Dan Crawford Scholarship award from the SF Punchline and is featured in the second season of Live From Gotham on Comedy Central.
Damon Wayans Popular comedian trapped in an actors body and best known for his innovative television show, In Living Color, Damon Wayans has achieved unparalleled success on stage, television and film, with most recently extending his creative expression into writing, producing and directing.
Shawn Wayans Shawn Wayans made his acting debut in 1989 in his brother Keenen Ivory Wayans' I'm Gonna Git You Sucka. Immediately following, he joined the cast of the Emmy Award-winning comedy series In Living Color. Alongside his brother Marlon Wayans, Shawn co-wrote and starred in the box office smash Scary Movie. Most recently he starred in Scary Movie 2, which he also co-wrote and co-executive produced. Wayans' past film credits include the hit comedy Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, which he co-wrote, executive produced and starred in with brother Marlon.
Rob Weinstein Rob Weinstein has performed stand-up comedy across the U.S. and around the world, including appearances on NBC, MTV, FOX, Lifetime and three different shows on Comedy Central. Rob is devoted to giving every audience the very best in clean, clever and hilarious comedy. Read his amazing corporate and college show reviews, and watch video of Rob performing some of his funniest routines. You'll see and hear firsthand why Rob has received so many accolades for his well-crafted material, expert timing and warm, friendly performance style
Ron White Ron White The show has played to sold out audiences in over 90 cities and has grossed over $15 million dollars. The "Blue Collar Comedy Tour" was filmed as major motion picture by Warner Bros. and released in theaters March 2003 and on DVD June 2003. "The gem of the group is Ron White…he's a natural storyteller with a wry observational skill." -- Rodney Ho THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION "White's inspired comic mind finds a dozen sources of humor where the average comic would find only one or two, while making a fine art of the deadpan style." -- Robert Koehler DAILY VARIETY When not performing with Blue Collar Ron is a regular headliner at comedy clubs and concert halls across the United States. He has performed on "An Evening at The Improv" and "Caroline's Comedy Hour". During his career Ron has performed with a number of acts as varied as Sam Kinison and George Jones. Ray-O-Vac and Georgia Pacific are some of the corporations Ron has performed for in the past year. Ron appeared at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in 2001. Ron was voted "Best Act of the Friday Night Gala" by Anne Sutherland, he also scored "Best Joke" and "Artistic Impression" by Bill Brownstein, both of "The Gazette". "Ron White - sheer genius. I'm coming back tomorrow night. I hope Ron White is too." George Balcan "The Gazette" Montreal Having earned rave reviews in Montreal in 2001 Ron returned for the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival 2002. The Hollywood Reporter noted Ron earned "strong reviews" for his performances in the "Masters Show" and "Nasty Show" where he was featured with the likes of Robert Schimmel and Dave Attell. Ron also appeared at the 2002 Chicago Comedy Festival. Ron appeared on "Late Night With David Letterman" in October 2002 and he appeared as part of Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" which aired in December. Ron also taped his own half-hour stand up special for Comedy Central Presents which aired May 2003. In March Ron starred in and shot a pilot for the FOX Network titled "Senor White". "White, employs witty descriptions and dips his toes into questionable subject matter that he shouldn't be able to pull off but does." – Robert W. Butler The Kansas City Star.
Kym Whitley Actress, standup comic and co-host of BET'S OH DRAMA!. Oh Drama is a provocative, high energy nighttime talk show featuring Kym and two other dynamic, opinionated ladies. The topics covered are pop culture, health, beauty, relationships, careers, spirituality, etc.
Leroy Williams Even with a degree in Architecture, it's hard to believe there was ever a time Leroy Williams considered not being a performer. In place at a nice secure government job with the Corps of Engineers in Norfolk Virginia, Leroy stumbled into an open mic night at a local comedy club ...and took first place. After winning a gig as the MC, Leroy was hooked. Bitten, but still practical, Leroy did not commit to standup until returning to his home town of Houston, Texas in 1991, the Mecca of comedy in the southwest US. Leroy became a regular at the Comedy Place, which proved a great training ground. Even though the audience only consisted of 3 to 150 patrons, the show went on. You could be called on to MC or headline with no advance notice. You either worked hard at becoming a better comedian or got left back in the pack of also rans and could have beens. Leroy paid his dues the old fashioned way ...by working the road. The experience proved invaluable as Leroy climbed through the ranks to headline such notable clubs as Pierce St. Annex in Anchorage, Alaska, The Punch line and Bobby's Comedy Corner in Houston, Texas, The Comedy Lift in Omaha, Nebraska. His international performances include Germany, Japan and Korea. Having appeared on BET's Comic View numerous times and opening for such notable acts as Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.C. Curry. Leroy added hypnosis to his repertoire to the delight of audiences in clubs, colleges and corporate events nationwide.
Harland Williams Harland Williams Canadian actor and comedian, Harland Williams will kick off a 5 city tour this fall beginning on September 21st.Harland's goofy antics and memorable performances in There's Something About Mary, Dumb and Dumber, the cult favorite Half Baked and his regular appearances on Letterman, Leno and O'Brien have made him one of Canada's leading comedic talents.This is Harland's first solo tour with Just For Laughs though he hosted the 2002 Just For Laughs Canadian Comedy Tour, the Just For Laughs Stand-up Series on CBC in 2000 and 2001 and has performed at the Just For Laughs Festival a whopping eight times. He is currently writing and directing a project with DreamWorks Animation and will appear in the upcoming feature film Surf School and Disney's A Day with Wilbur Robinson. The Tasty Treats Comedy Tour will hit Belleville, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax.Since his movie debut in 1994's Dumb and Dumber, Harland Williams has appeared in numerous movies and television shows including Half Baked, Superstar, The Geena Davis Show, Big Money Hu$tla$ and Sorority Boys with cameos in many others, like My Name is Earl and There's Something About Mary.Among his other performances, in 2001 he also provided the voice of the lustful, yet fun-loving Michael Timothy Bonner in the boycott claymation UPN show Gary & Mike along with Christopher Moynihan providing the voice of the good-hearted nerd, Gary Newton.He has performed his stand up comedy numerous times at the Montreal comedy festival and other notable venues. His stand up routine is often odd, with obscure references to topics like koalas and KFC.He also recently appeared in the 2006 comedy film Employee of the Month.
Robin Williams Robin Williams had a good deal of success with stand-up during the 1970s, including a stint at Los Angeles? Comedy Store in his own showcase. After performing on the revival of the Laugh-In series in 1977-78, Williams landed a guest role on the popular sitcom Happy Days as Mork, a lovably weird space alien from the planet Ork. Before too long, he had brought the character to his own spin-off sitcom, Mork + Mindy (1978-82), which costarred Pam Dawber as the female earthling with whom Mork falls in love and Jonathan Winters as a fellow alien. With a successful sitcom under his belt, Williams also brought his talents for improvisation and stand-up comedy to cable television, headlining two Home Box Office (HBO) comedy specials, An Evening with Robin Williams (1982) and Robin Williams: Live at the Met (1986). In 1986, he joined fellow comics Billy Crystal and Whoopi Goldberg in hosting HBO?s annual Comic Relief telecast, which donated all funds raised to helping the homeless. Despite Williams? undeniable success among audiences with his television work and stand-up comedy, his film career got off to a somewhat slower start. He made his film debut in the title role of a disappointing live-action version of Popeye (1980), directed by Robert Altman. Though he earned acclaim for his performances in a film version of John Irving?s The World According to Garp (1982) and the well-reviewed Moscow on the Hudson (1984), he also starred in less inspiring projects such as The Survivors (1983), Club Paradise (1986), and The Best of Times (1986). In 1987, Williams made the leap to the Hollywood A-list with his Oscar-nominated performance in Good Morning, Vietnam, Barry Levinson?s comedy-drama about an irreverent deejay assigned to a radio station for the U.S. Armed Services in Vietnam. Even on the set of a movie, Williams? improvisational skills became famous, and he was known for ad-libbing many a scene. Billed as Ray DiTutto, Williams turned in another funny performance in the somewhat bizarre The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988), written and directed by Terry Gilliam. Williams earned his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 1989, for his performance as John Keating, the inspirational prep-school teacher at the heart of Dead Poets Society. In 1990, he starred as a doctor who treats a catatonic patient (Robert De Niro) in the acclaimed drama Awakenings, directed by Penny Marshall. On a less serious (and less successful) note, he played Peter Pan in Steven Spielberg?s Hook (1991), a notorious big-budget flop which costarred Dustin Hoffman and Julia Roberts.
Katt Williams Known just as much for his permed hair as he is for his animated performances and quick wit, comedian Katt Williams has been making his mark in Hollywood for over 10 years. Beginning his career at an age when most teenagers are seeking their driver's license, the young comic quickly discovered that he had a gift for making people laugh. Inspired by the likes of great humorists such as Richard Pryor, Donn Knotts, Eddie Murphy, Bill Cosby, George Carlin, Thomas Marshall, Jeff Foxworthy, Whoopi Goldberg, Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chapelle, whom he calls the "Malcolm X of comedy," Katt Williams' entertaining standup routines are laying the blueprint for a new generation of comics. In 1999 Katt became a presence at The Improv, The Comedy Club, The Icehouse and even had his own room at The Hollywood Park Casino where he had a large, loyal following. He's become a staple comedic force on BET, appearing on shows such as "Comic View", "Rip the Runway", "Black Carpet", "106th & Park", "The BET Awards" and "BET Comedy Awards." Throughout his success he has been massively embraced by the Hip Hop community, receiving praise from Master P ("Hands down Katt Williams is the next Richard Pryor") and Snoop Dogg ("Katt is doing his comedy thing so flamboyantly and so fly with spirit of the late great Red Foxx and the spirit of Richard Pryor") Last month Katt hosted the 1st Annual BET "Hip Hop" Award Show from The Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. In his role as host he received an overwhelmingly positive response from critics and had a chance to speak directly to Hip Hop audiences globally and share his insight on urban culture, folklore, lifestyle, history and music. More than a musical style, hip-hop is a history of American culture, and a testimony by its artists of their life experiences. The Award Show was an electrifying evening of non-stop homage and entertainment to the genre of Hip Hop music. Performances included Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Young Jeezy and T.I. while Award Nominees include everyone from Common and Busta Rhymes to DMX and Jay-Z. Telling jokes with ease, the stand-up comic/actor wants to conquer the globe's problems with laughter. "Everything, everywhere is comedy material. To watch and view the world via television, newspapers, movies and music translate our world into funny. There is no subject where funny doesn't exist." The current Los Angeles resident has undoubtedly become a fixture on the comedic and Hollywood landscape with more than enough charisma and talent to spare. Possessing the ability to make millions of people laugh, Katt Williams is healing the world one smile at a time. Katt sums it up best, "I'm in the great comedian lane. Once you're in that lane, that's just the beginning of it. The getting there is the journey."
Roy Wood Jr. Roy has been featured on the new season of CBS' THE LATE SHOW w/ David Letterman, HBOs DEF COMEDY JAM, TV Ones The Funny Spot w/ Tony Rock, BBCs THE WORLD STANDS UP LONDON, , CBS LATE LATE SHOW w/ Craig Ferguson, NBCs Last Comic Standing, and Comedy Centrals BOB & TOM COMEDY TOUR. He's also showcased at the prestigious MONTREAL COMEDY FESTIVAL and is a regular guest on the E! Network's CHELSEA LATELY. And that's just the last 2 years. Hailing from Birmingham, AL, Roys creative writing and dedicated work ethic has since earned him the right to perform his comedy in front of millions of people coast to coast. The Montreal Gazette called Roys 2006 festival performance on the New Faces show tremendous" and the Hollywood Reporter called Roy a standout. Roy has also appeared on 'COMEDY CENTRAL'S PREMIUM BLEND, BET's COMIC VIEW, CBS' STAR SEARCH (2003) where he made it to the semi-finals, 'IT'S SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO' and LIVE IN HOLLYWOOD w/ KIKI SHEPPARD'. Steering clear of predictable topics and premises, Roy delivers comedy that gives an honest look at not only his life, but the world in which we live. The universal appeal of his comedy crosses all race and cultural lines which is why he has opened for an array of comedians ranging from D.L. Hughley, Ron White, Monique, Tommy Davidson, Bill Engvall and Katt Williams. A two-time nominee for APCA's title of Comedian of the Year Roy works numerous college and university appearances into his schedule every year as well. Roy has also carved a niche for himself in the world of radio. Until late 2006 he was head writer and producer of the Buckwilde Morning Show WBHJ 95.7 JAMZ Birmingham, AL He is also a regular guest on the 'Bob & Tom Radio Show, a syndicated morning show heard by more than six million people every morning. His hilarious prank phone calls are also carried in almost 50 different radio markets including stations in Canada and England. In addition to terrestrial radio, his prank calls are a main stay on Jaime Foxxs Foxxhole Station' on SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
Steven Wright Comic with his own deadpan style of humor, Wright has appeared frequently on "The Tonight Show," "Saturday Night Live," and "Late Night with David Letterman."
Tim Young Tim has performed at over 400 colleges and universities and has also appeared on such television shows as Last Comic Standing, Comedy Centrals Premium Blend, Shorties Watching Shorties", and Tough Crowd with Collin Quinn. He has also appeared on NBCs Friday night 3 times, he has also appeared on MTVs The Jim Bruer Show, and has even guest started on an episode of Daria.
Alan Zweibel Alan ZweibelRenowned comedy writer: Saturday Night Live, Curb Your Enthusiasm, "700 Sundays" Alan Zweibel's career began writing and creating characters for the most legendary comedians of a generation: Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Dan Akroyd, Steve Martin. That the setting was one of the most successful entertainment programs in television history and live made it all the more memorable.