Dave Chappelle (Wikipedia Commons)
Dave Chappelle is returning to televised stand-up after more than a decade. The comedian is set to star in three comedy specials for streaming giant Netflix, the service announced Nov. 21.
“Dave Chappelle is a legendary voice in comedy — searing, vital and, now more than ever, essential,” Lisa Nishimura, Netflix’s Vice President of Original Documentary and Comedy, said in a statement Monday. “Dave’s three new specials promise to be some of the most anticipated events in comedy, and we are honored he will mark his global return on Netflix.”
According to Deadline, two of Chappelle’s comedy specials have been previously taped. They are due for synchronous release in 2017. They are shows he filmed in 2014 at Austin City Limits and the Hollywood Palladium. The third special is an all-new performance Chappelle will produce with director Stan Lathan of “The Real Husbands of Hollywood” fame.
News: 3 new Dave Chappelle comedy specials, coming soon. pic.twitter.com/OzrDukBPk6
— Netflix US (@netflix) November 21, 2016
The deal, which marks Chappelle’s return to specials after 12 years, follows Chris Rock’s historic plan to develop two comedy specials. Rock will reportedly earn a total of $40 million for the projects. Atlanta Black Star reported the “Saturday Night Live” alum will begin taping his first special next year, effectively ending his eight-year-long stand-up termination. But no payment has been revealed for Chappelle’s gigs.
Coincidentally, however, both Rock and Chappelle appeared on “SNL” during the sketch comedy show’s Nov. 12 episode. The two hilariously reacted to Donald Trump winning the election in a skit.
Sales of Chappelle’s live performances over the past few years have pointed to the public’s desire to see him back on stage. Deadline reported he sold out 10 shows in a row during a stint at Radio City Music hall in 2014.
