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Get Ready to Laugh: Shaq’s All-Star Comedy Jam’s 2025 Star-Studded Night of Comedy

Shaq's All-Star Comedy Jam 2025

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.”

https://youtu.be/s2jbdFeBdRU?si=_QXUuH6GZJaeipop

 

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.

Written by: Renae Richardson

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Kenya Barris Gives Behind The Scenes Look At Coming 2 America: Including A Scrapped Dave Chappelle Role

Kenya Barris
Image source: "Hell of a Week" YouTube

Kenya Barris, famed writer, and producer, revealed interesting behind-the-scene details about the production of his 2021 film Coming 2 America. The information came as a part of Charlamagne Tha God’s talk show on Comedy Central, Hell of a Week. During the interview, Barris, famed for his hit ABC sitcom black-ish, revealed several things he wished played out differently for the film. As expected from any screenwriter, he lamented the amount of time given. He desired more time. He expounded how more time would have made things smoother for the film director, Craig Brewer. Kenya Barris also wanted to have the director work closely with the editors. Directors and editors occasionally can become distant, resulting in a less coherent product. Something Barris is aware of.

Kenya Barris Explains How He Would Change The Film

Barris also addressed the filming location. The movie’s scenes were shot primarily at rapper Rick Ross’ at his estate in Atlanta. A fact Charlamagne jokingly pointed out. Barris revealed his regret that the movie was unable to be shot on location somewhere in Africa. Something that felt more authentic but trickier and more costly to film production.

Dave Chappelle’s Cut Role

However, the most intriguing regret of Barris is the cut content of the film. The writer explained the original intent to have famed comedian and actor Dave Chappelle play a role. He confirmed the existence of a character cut out of the final product, which was written for Chapelle. He also claimed Chappelle liked the part and wanted to play it, but that did not come to fruition for various scheduling reasons.

Certainly, Chappelle’s addition to the film would have been to its advantage. While primarily known for his stand-up and television roles, Chappelle’s film pursuits showcase his natural talent for comedic roles on the silver screen. Most notably, the cult classic 2000 comedy Screwed, in which he starred alongside the late Norm Macdonald.

Eddie Murphy’s Contribution

Barris leaves the interview on a positive note. Although the many elements of the film he wished could have gone a different direction, he does not seem to regret the movie. He claims this sort of production chaos is commonplace. Something that he experienced as a veteran screenwriter. He also praised the inspired performance of Eddie Murphy. He states at one point that Murphy can put a movie on his back and carry it, something that rings true to many. Barris’ interview gives the layman an exciting sneak peek into how movies and films find their way to audiences. 

Be On The Watch For More

Charlamagne and his panel discussed other cultural topics during his show. These ranged from the infidelity and season-long suspension of Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka, the new Jeffery Dahmer biopic from Netflix, and Barris’ new collaboration with Kid Cudi. Those wishing to keep up-to-date on cultural and entertainment topics can watch Comedy Central’s Hell of A Week with Charlamagne Tha God Thursday nights at 11:30/10:30 PM on Comedy Central.

Written by Ryan Fields

 

 

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Kevin Hart Gifted “Will Smith” The Goat To Chris Rock During An Epic Comedy Show

Chris Rock Kevin Hart
Image via ABC News

The slap heard around the world from the 2022 Academy Awards is still making noise. Back in March, the world watched as Will Smith slapped Chris Rock following a joke about his wife. Last night, comedian  Kevin Hart gifted an actual goat named “Will Smith,” to Chris Rock. Hilariously, this was during a comedy show at Madison Square Garden in New York City with Dave Chappelle on stage.

What Took Place When Kevin Hart Gifted “Will Smith” The Goat To Rock?

Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, and Chris Rock held a comedy show at MSG. And the room was full of laughter and tons of jokes. One of the topics that came up was how Hart had a live goat in attendance. And no one could understand why. But to everyone’s surprise he presented it to Rock as a gift. And let everyone know the goat’s name was “Will Smith.” Hart mentioned to the audience that Rock not only was a friend and inspiration, but he was in fact a mentor. And he was his G.O.A.T. Which is where the inspiration for his gift came from.

Despite creating a tender moment, where he says Rock almost cried. The goat made things a bit messy and actually ruined Rock’s shoes. “Chris had on some white moon boots and that goat got him,” Hart said on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtQAlgP5A7M

Kevin Hart’s gift wasn’t the first time the incident came up recently. Last weekend while performing in New Jersey Chris Rock made a point to talk about being seen as a “victim.” Saying, “I’m not a victim. Yeah that hurt, but I shook it off and went to work.” Rock even compared the slap to getting a paper cut and it being that minor in his life.

It’s clear that Hart is one of the only people that could pay homage to one of the greats, while also making fun of them!

For more hip-hop news check out FMHipHop!

Brittany Belizor | IG @Brittieb_ | Twitter @BBelizor

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LAPD Reveals Weapon Intended For Dave Chappelle

Dave Chappelle
Dave Chappelle brushes off attacker. Photo Credit AFP File Photo

Comedian Dave Chappelle performs at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on Tuesday night (May 3) unbeknownst his life was at risk. As Chappelle continues his set, an attacker body slams the comedian midway through his speech. The perpetrator, 23-year-old Isaiah Lee of Los Angeles attacks intending to brutally harm the comedian with a weapon.

Lee manages to slip past security with his weapon. LAPD reveal Lee’s weapon of choice on Instagram. It appears as a real gun to the naked eye. However, the weapon at hand was a pseudo gun with an extended knife blade coming out of the barrel. The perpetrator made it free and clear through the entrance metal detectors as well.

Following the attack, comedian Chris Rock who performed before Dave came on the stage and humorously said, “Was that Will Smith?” His joke is in reference to the Oscar incident where Will Smith assaults Chris Rock after making an offensive joke about his wife Jada Pickett-Smith. Chris Rock making light of the situation eases the crowd, alongside Chapelle cracking jokes on the attacker as well.

Consequently, Lee endures a full-throttle beating by Chappelle’s security personnel. As a result, the offender was is out on a stretcher and taken to the hospital. Photographers capture Lee completely covered in blood. Lee’s injuries display a bloody nose, broken arm, a swollen right eye, and numerous bruises.

The offender is an aspiring rapper who goes by NoName Trapper. His music on Spotify has over 5,000 monthly listeners and he also has a song named “Dave Chappell.” The vendetta remains unclear as to why he attacked the famed comedian. However, Chapelle has been on his mind for quite some time. Speculators conclude he is trying to push forth his career motive.

Criminal Charge

While career recognition is not the direct result of his actions, a record is. Lee is charged with felony assault of a deadly weapon. Now, Lee is held at the Los Angeles County jail and his bail is set at $30,000.

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Lizzo Takes Over SNL As Host And Musical Guest

Lizzo as SNL host and musical guest

On the most recent episode of Saturday Night Live, Lizzo proved that not only is she a talented singer, dancer, and flutist, she also has excellent comedic timing. The Grammy-award winning singer starred in a number of sketches and according to the audience reception on social media, she knocked it out of the park.

Lizzo and Kenan Thompson
Lizzo and Kenan Thompson in the promo for  SNL. Photo Credit: NBC

In her monologue, the singer addressed rumors she’s dated “every little white boy in Hollywood” including Chris Evans. The first single from her newest album Special is “Rumors,” so the joke is definitely appropriate. Though she admitted to being “that b-tch” in reference to her 2018 hit “Truth Hurts,” she also admitted to being a band geek. Later in the show, she twerked and played the flute in an orchestra themed sketch, living up to her reputation of being a multi-talented artist.

What Critics Thought Of Lizzo On SNL

Every episode of SNL has its ups and downs. This episode is no exception. AV Club claimed that while Lizzo had the right energy, the writers couldn’t keep up. Not only did they refer to the episode as rock bottom, they blasted the technical staff for “making a talented musical guest look distinctly ungreat in performance.” This has been a common criticism of the sketch comedy’s writer’s room for a few years now. However, several publications, like Vanity Fair and IndieWire, pointed out highlights of the episode. These include her TikTok sketch and the Please Don’t Destroy short.

Lizzo previously performed on SNL when Eddie Murphy hosted back in 2019. She was good then, and reminded her fans of why they love her so much. The singer performed two new songs. These include the upbeat “It’s About Damn Time” and a powerful performance of “Special.”

Both performances are available to watch on YouTube. The singer expects to drop her new album July 15.

Written by Kimberly Stelly | Instagram | Twitter

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Comic Lauren Knight And T.I. Make Up After Heated Dispute

Comic Lauren Knight And T.I. Make Up After Heated Dispute
Comic Lauren Knight And T.I. Make Up After Heated Dispute. Image source: Getty/Special Guest App.

After rapper T.I. got into a heated dispute with stand-up comedian Lauren Knight on Monday, April 4, the smoke now appears clear. The two made up the night of the altercation.

Both T.I. and Knight attended her open mic set, aptly named “One Knight Only.” The comic mentioned the rapper and his wife’s sexual assault allegations. T.I. didn’t like this and began shouting at the comedian, denying the claims. 

The dispute between T.I. and Lauren Knight continued to escalate. The two traded barbs, swearing at one another. When Knight tried to change the subject, she continued to be heckled.

However, by Wednesday, April 6, the rapper walked back his statements. “She’s a young black woman fighting to use her voice for laughter,” he said. “I understand that may take us down dark roads at times, but there’s always an opportunity to find a beacon of light & produce a positive outcome.” He then posted a video of the two on stage, seemingly getting along.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TIP (@troubleman31)

“I’ve said from my entrance into the world of comedy that I intend to use my light to shine on others. To bring awareness to those who also have love and respect for the art form,” said the Atlanta rapper.

T.I. And Tiny’s Allegations

Last September, a Los Angeles judge dismissed a sexual assault case filed against T.I. and Tiny, the artist’s wife. The woman making the accusations alleged the rapper and his wife drugged, then assaulted her 15 years ago. 

However, the statute of limitations in California dictated the case gets thrown out. Even though this is a relief for the couple, real names Clifford J. Harris Jr. and Tameka Cottle, there are also other accusations. Many of them are as well for drugging and sexual abuse.

While the direction of T.I.’s legal troubles is unclear, there is at least a conclusion to the tension between him and Lauren Knight.

Written by Kimberly Stelly | Instagram | Twitter

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Damon Wayans Calls Dave Chappelle Comedic “Unicorn”

Damon Wayans is calling fellow comedian Dave Chappelle a “unicorn” in the comedic arena.  Dave Chapelle has caused a major wave of emotion amongst social groups throughout his career.  His latest victims being the transgender community.

From one freedom fighter to another

Wayans says Chappelle is also a freedom fighter. “I feel like Dave freed the slaves. Yeah, the comedians,” a masked Wayans, 61, told TMZ. “We were slaves to PC culture and he just, you know — as an artist he’s Van Gogh. He cut his ear off. He’s trying to tell us it’s okay.”

Damon Wayans has seen his share of comedians being cancelled due to controversial commentary. Wayans is indeed a seasoned comedian. Notably his run on the hit 90″s show, In Living Color, became a show of “firsts” for African-Americans in comedy.  Similar to Chapelle, Wayans, along with others from his famed family, walked off their show at its most popular time.

The reason, a new team of “consultants” whose focus was to culturally appropriate the show in hopes to steer in a new audience. His brother Keenan Wayans spearheaded their exit from the popular show saying, “”What I did was just stand up,” he says. ”I told those people that what they were doing was wrong.”

Backing Dave

Netflix has backed Chapelle’s, “The Closer” in the midst of its controversial stance. The company on Monday suspended three employees who crashed an executive meeting.  Netflix worker, Terra Field fired off a series of tweets addressing Chapelle’s comments during his final installment with Netflix. Netflix has expressed that although Field expressed openly her stance on the show, she was not suspended due to this, but other reasons.

Being trans is actually pretty funny, if you’re someone who actually knows about the subject matter. How could volunteering for a second puberty *not* be funny? That isn’t what he is doing though. Our existence is ‘funny’ to him – and when we object to his harm, we’re “offended”.

Netflix has expressed that although Field expressed openly her stance on the show, she was not suspended due to this, but other reasons.

What he does wanna talk about is a phenomenon he perceives — that one is NOT truly free in the U.S. anymore on the issue of speech, and he sees that as the real issue we need to dissect.

Chappelle has made it clear he will not prostitute his gift becoming the epitome of “stand for something or fall for anything.”

Written by Antoinette Ford

Facebook: Antoinette Ford Instagram: missford2u_

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Dave Chapelle Addresses DaBaby Controversy and Cancellation

Dave Chappelle is familiar with the concept of controversy. He’s joked about plenty in the past, and he’s dealt with some himself. Perhaps then, it is no big surprise to anyone that Chappelle brought up DaBaby’s cancellation in his latest Netflix special, “The Closer.” 

The Offer

 In the special, Chappelle took a moment to pause and addresses the LGBTQ+ community on his past, saying that he has “come in peace.” He then joked that he was there “to negotiate the release of DaBaby.”

“All the questions you might have had about all these jokes I’ve said in the last few years, I hope to answer tonight,” he said during the special. “And I’d like to start by addressing the [LGBTQ] community directly. I want every member of that community to know that I come here tonight in peace and I hope to negotiate the release of DaBaby.”

For anyone still unaware, DaBaby had a magnificent fall from grace during the Rolling Loud festival last August in Miami. Following his unprompted homophobic consequences, one of the quickest cancellations of an artist in recent memory took place in which DaBaby had his career uprooted in a matter of days. He was dropped from features, festivals, and more. In short, any and all that could washed their hands of him. He issued an “apology” and met with LGBT and HIV groups to discuss why being ignorant is a bad career move. However, aside from hip-hop’s problem child Boosie Badazz, the industry continues to avoid DaBaby like the plague.

Dave to the Defense?

To be clear, Chappelle did not seek to exonerate DaBaby. In fact, he gave the crowd a biography lesson. Chappelle brought up the 2019 incident in Huntersville, North Carolina in which DaBaby shot a 19 year-old at a Wal-Mart in alleged self defense. The most serious charges were dropped against him, as a witness to the alleged crime “was not available”.

Chappelle’s point? As he said: “Nothing bad happened to his career. Do you see where I’m going with this? In our country, you can shoot and kill a n***a but you better not hurt a gay person’s feelings.”

https://twitter.com/nojumper/status/1445469814948917256?s=20

Chappelle’s bit will assuredly spark both blowback and agreements. Stay with us at FMHipHop as the conversation continues.

                                                                                                Garrett C. Owen

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Danny Brown Has His First Stand-Up Show

The famous rapper Danny Brown is thrusting himself in the newfound path of stand-up comedy. While there is “a lot to work on” after the first show, Danny says he’s “addicted now and want[s] to get better.”

https://twitter.com/xdannyxbrownx/status/1441200462108135431?s=20

 

Hannibal Bures is the one who has allowed Danny to perform during his stand-up show. Danny has had his first performance during Hannibal’s show. Hannibal has also given Danny “the confidence to finally get on stage.”

 

Danny Brown has also seemed to be nervous before the performance. He even asked his audience to “wish him luck.” However, the event was a success. Danny “didn’t bomb.” Danny thanked everyone who sent good luck wishes. ” They have “definitely helped cause playing in front of 4K for my first stand up set definitely had me missing sleep last night,” he said.

https://twitter.com/xdannyxbrownx/status/1441199606453374977?s=20

Danny’s Long Love for Stand-Up Comedy

Danny Brown has always been a humorous man. In a 2019 interview for Complex, he shared his love for comedy: “comedy’s been a part of my life since rap was.”

“I remember back when I was in school, and I would tell people that I wanted to be a rapper and shit, and them motherfuckers would laugh at me,” Danny shared. “From then on, I just said I wanted to be a comedian. Until one day, my teacher told me to tell a joke, and I froze up.”

Danny also revealed he finds comedy more effective than rap in terms of delivering the message.

“If Carlin was still around, he’d fuck around and be president,” Danny claimed. “Comedians aren’t all that far removed from being politicians, in a lotta ways. Some of them, anyway—others just hump stools and do weird shit..”

While Danny Brown’s stand-up career is currently rising, he still remains in the music industry. Moreover, his album is supposed to come out soon, Be sure to read about it here.

Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk

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Funniest Comedians In Stand-Up: Possible Kevin Hart and Katt Williams Verzuz Battle

Katt Williams

Kevin Hart and Katt Williams going toe-to-toe in a possible Verzuz battle per Katt Williams might actually happen.

Williams is very keen on the idea but states that he is not worried. He does not think Kevin nor any comic except Richard Pryor, can compete with him.

VIDEO: Katt Williams Calls Kevin Hart A Puppet - See Kevin's Response!
Kevin Hart and Katt Williams /icecreamconvos.com

Comparing Hart and Williams

Kevin Hart unarguably championed stand-up comedy over the past decade. He has released several comedy specials and has had huge ticket and box office success on stage and on the big screen.

Katt Williams also known as “The King of Underground Comedy,” has also had a lot of commercial success. In the decade before Kevin, he had several comedy specials, starred in movies, and was heavily imitated by his fans. He even conquered some of these feats in Kevin’s decade of fame.

Kevin is famous for his humorously relatable stories with his family and friends. Katt Williams is most comically famous for his blunt yet consciously aware demeanour and jokes. The two are great in their own bouts. However, the question is, how would the two match up competing with each other with their styles?

Katt Williams stumbles

Katt Williams’s success can not be mentioned without his trials and downfalls also. He has been arrested numerous times and got into altercations with other celebrities like Tiffany Haddish. He is sometimes thought of as being controversial. Nonetheless, he assures everyone that he regrets his behavior.

It makes him one of the proudest and humorously attractive comics the world has seen. He makes this evident every chance he gets. For example, he recently had an interview where he told his interviewer “Comedically beefing is my lane. It’s almost cheating for me. I have over ten specials.”

He is very confident in his ability to perform. He has everyone wondering what’s next.

Will he battle Kevin Hart in a Versuz battle soon? Find out more @fmhiphop

Written by: Zacchaeus Heyward

Snapchat: Prophetzacc22| Instagram: @Prophetzacc22