Chris Rock

Who is Chris Rock?

Chris Rock, born Christopher Julius Rock on February 7, 1965, in Andrews, South Carolina, is a stand-up comic, actor, writer, producer, and director. He is renowned for his incisive humor and thought-provoking commentary on race relations, politics, and society. Rock's career spans several decades, during which he has become one of the most influential figures in comedy.

Rock began his stand-up career in the mid-1980s, performing in New York City's comedy clubs. His sharp wit and unique perspective quickly garnered attention, leading to his discovery by Eddie Murphy, who cast him in Beverly Hills Cop II (1987). In 1990, Rock joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, where he became part of the "Bad Boys of SNL" alongside Chris Farley, Adam Sandler, and David Spade.

After leaving SNL in 1993, Rock's stand-up special Bring the Pain (1996) earned him two Emmy Awards and solidified his status as a leading comedian. He hosted The Chris Rock Show (1997–2000), which received critical acclaim for its incisive social and political commentary. Rock's film roles include Lethal Weapon 4 (1998), Dogma (1999), and the Madagascar series (2005–2012), where he voiced Marty the zebra.

In recent years, Rock has continued to make significant contributions to comedy and film. He directed and starred in Top Five (2014) and released the stand-up special Tamborine (2018) on Netflix. In 2021, Rock starred in the fourth season of Fargo, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He remains a prominent figure in entertainment, known for his sharp humor and insightful observations.

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Stand-up Specials

Selective Outrage
Selective Outrage
Mar 4, 2023 | Baltimore
Tamborine
Tamborine
Feb 14, 2018 | New York City
Kill the Messenger
Kill the Messenger
Sep 27, 2008 | Johannesburg,New York City,London
Never Scared
Never Scared
Apr 8, 2003 | Washington DC
Bigger and Blacker
Bigger and Blacker
Jul 10, 1999 | New York City
Comic Relief VIII
Comic Relief VIII
Jun 14, 1998 | New York City
Comic Relief VII
Comic Relief VII
Nov 11, 1995 | New York City
Bring the Pain
Bring the Pain
Oct 25, 1994 | Washington DC
Comedy's Dirtiest Dozen
Comedy's Dirtiest Dozen
Oct 1, 1988 | Unknown
Uptown Comedy Express
Uptown Comedy Express
May 9, 1987 | Los Angeles

Books Written by Comics

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Running the Light

Sam Tallent

Running the Light
A raw, darkly funny, and deeply moving portrait of a comedian’s life on the edge. Following the chaotic journey of washed-up stand-up Billy Ray Schafer, Tallent’s debut novel dives into the highs and lows of the comedy circuit with brutal honesty and sharp wit. A must-read for anyone fascinated by the gritty reality behind the spotlight.
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Harold

Steven Wright

Harold
Steven Wright’s Harold is a brilliantly surreal and hilarious dive into the mind of a 1960s third grader. This is one of my all-time favorite books, and the audiobook is a must-listen with Wright’s perfect delivery.
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Dear Mrs. Fitzsimmons

Greg Fitzsimmons

Dear Mrs. Fitzsimmons
A hilariously candid memoir told through the lens of his childhood report cards and letters home. With sharp humor and heartfelt insight, Fitzsimmons shares stories of mischief, rebellion, and the family dynamics that shaped his comedy career. A laugh-out-loud and deeply relatable read for fans of irreverent wit.
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