There is no way comedy fans can miss the annual 2025 All-Star Jam. The storied All-Star Jam, which basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal (Shaq) founded more than ten years ago, is a highly anticipated event where some of the funniest comedians gather together to entertain fans.
Shaq’s All-Star Comedy Jam: The Origins
As O’Neal is referenced in a press release,
“Shaq’s All-Star Comedy Jam brand has established itself as a must-attend event for both the NBA All-Star weekend and Super Bowl weekend over the past 16 years.”
It all began in 2009 when Shaquille O’Neal met with Hartbeat Productions’ president, Jeff Clanagan. Like most inspired ideas, no one could predict how successful the event would become. But whenever something is a hit, people want to be a part of it. Without a doubt, the fact that the event is still ongoing emphasizes its success.
Who’s Who of 2025 Line-Up
The 2025 talent lineup features a fantastic group of comedians who have earned their stripes, their popularity underscored by a knack for leaving audiences in stitches. The roster includes Michael Blackson, DJ Young Fly, Cocoa Brown, and Gary Owen. And none other than Bill Bellamy is hosting the entire event.
Michael Blackson
Here are a few details to build the appetite. The man known as the “African King of Comedy,” Michael Blackson, started his career in 1992. Over the years, he has developed into a top-tier comedian. His break came at the Los Angeles Comedy Club, as Improv points out.
As a result of his appearance in the unforgettable movie “Next Friday,” the comedian expanded his reach.
As the Improv goes on to note
“His performances leave audiences laughing in tears. Duly so, he has been called one of the country’s most original stand-up comics.”
To add to his credits, Blackson has since starred in several more films, released successful comedy albums, and published a book, among other things, making him one of the most successful comedians of his generation.
DC Young Fly
DC Young Fly is another well-known name in comedy circles. DC is an all-around personality, not just known for his in-your-face hilarity but also his contribution to the cinematic comedy genre. Some of his credits include “House Party,” “Almost Christmas,” “The Quad,” “The New Edition Story,” and “Soul Train.”
And if those movies are unfamiliar to you, you can find him on Nick Cannon’s show “Wild n Out.”
Cocoa Brown
Cocoa Brown is known as “The Truth.” Brown also brings her signature technique and longevity to the industry. This is not unexpected; as Brown has contended previously, she feels completely at home on stage. Brown credits her comedy aspirations with saving her life. As Brown recounts in The Grio,
“Comedy gave me the freedom to let loose and pretty much expose all the aunties they tried to hide in my life. So it’s always saved my life.”
When comedy is your home and in your bones, it is a great sign.
Like her contemporaries, Brown is also a person of many talents. Brown has also lent her talents to the screen, portraying a sassy, quick-witted, and equally quick-on-her-toes friend of Tasha Smith on Tyler Perry’s “For Better or Worse.”
Gary Owen
The last on the slate is Gary Owen. Gary Owen is also no stranger to stage and screen. Moviegoers might remember him from “Think Like a Man,” “Ride Along,” or “Daddy Daycare.” With years in the stand-up industry as well, it is evident he has put in the work. His experience and delivery have earned him his credibility. As Improv notes he has become,
“One of America’s most beloved comedians and was proclaimed by Ebony magazine as Black America’s “Favorite White Comedian.”
Remarkably, this occasion marks Owen’s return to the All-Star Comedy Jam, as he served as host in 2014.
And so, with a fully loaded slate of comics, comedy fans can expect a well-rounded experience.
2025 All-Star Comedy Jam: A Comedy Celebration
A word of thanks to the organizations that are making this event possible: The Black Promoters Collective, Jersey Legends Productions, and Hartbeat. As Jeff Clanagan, the head of Hartbeat pridefully notes as reported by Icon Vision,
“The Shaq’s All-Star Comedy Jam franchise has been a cornerstone of the comedy scene since its inception, delivering numerous sold-out shows and giving a national platform to diverse up-and-coming comedians who are now considered legends. Hartbeat is beyond thrilled to continue and expand this iconic franchise alongside Shaq and Jersey Legends. We have Black Promoters Collective on board to bring this next rendition to life.
It for sure has been an enjoyable ride for all those who have and will become beneficiaries of this collaboration. Hopefully, the laughs will continue for years to come.
Last Details
Anyone with an interest in the event should note the date. The place to be on February 14, 2025 is at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, California. Tickets are now available.
