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Issue Date: April 20, 2003
Entertainment
A comedian on the edge
Dave Chappelle's new TV show showcases his unsubtle humor.
By Tameka L. Hicks
Comedy isn't always laugh-out-loud funny; sometimes it makes us think about how we see ourselves and the world -- and makes us smile. Since he first climbed onstage to tell jokes at age 14, Dave Chappelle has sought an audience for his not-so-subtle observations about life's absurdities, which lay bare some long-held stereotypes. At 29, he's host and co-writer of Comedy Central's "Chappelle's Show" (Wednesdays, 10:30 p.m. ET). We spoke with him:
"I like [comedy] because it's dangerous. All of the best comedy has a sense of danger."
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Your brand of comedy borders on social satire. You say things most people wouldn't dare to -- but they think them.
Comedians give the times we live in definition. And they reflect the thoughts of their constituents. If they're relevant, then so be it; talk about it.
How do you respond to people who say you spend a lot of time pointing out how stupid white people or Hispanics are?
These people are probably under the assumption racism is over. Like, "Why is he bringing this up?" It's probably a lot of white people saying these things. They have the luxury to feel that way. But ask any black person if racism is over, and most will agree racism is alive and well. It is so institutionalized, people just don't notice it anymore.
I don't say things to necessarily be agreed with as much as I want to express myself. A lot of people feel the same way. But I'm not a racist person. I'm a racist in the same way every American is a racist.
Do you read what people say about you?
I don't read none of that! I know what it's going to be. It's like people writing letters to Congress. Nobody writes, "Dear Congress, you're doing a great job." They write to complain.
OK. We'll name a comedian, and you give us your opinion. Jerry Seinfeld.
Funny dude. Technical genius. Made the best show ever.
Bill Cosby.
Funny dude. Technical genius. Made the best show ever.
Hey! Is that your answer for every successful comedian?
Not every name.
OK. Woody Allen.
I like him because he had those stories. He was very edgy for his time.
One last person -- Eddie Murphy.
Ah, man. Eddie. He's one of my influences. And I had the pleasure of working with Eddie. I have never laughed harder just talking to a person.
Who else has influenced you?
When you're younger, you're easily influenced. But as you get older, your style just kind of solidifies. Like Miles Davis said, "It takes you years to learn how to play like yourself."
When you're not working, you live on a farm in Ohio. Do you have chickens and pigs?
No. I don't have any animals. I forget to brush my teeth sometimes, let alone brush a horse. That's too much work!
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