In the middle of this article, I had to pause and see if his comedy was really funny. I watched the pilot On Demand. And I smiled and I laughed. Now I'm stuck with another show that I have to catch up on.
3
Readers who see Jerrod Carmichael's picture, assume they are not in his target demographic and skip the article are making a huge mistake. My wife and I--white suburbanites over 55--have seen Jerrod Carmichael perform live 3 times. The first time, we had never heard of him and were there to see others. His material was so clever and original that we have been fans ever since.
Carmichael and such other black American comics as Hannibal Burress, Clayton English, Michael Che and Marina Franklin blend their personal experiences with great wit to produce universally appealing humor.
Carmichael and such other black American comics as Hannibal Burress, Clayton English, Michael Che and Marina Franklin blend their personal experiences with great wit to produce universally appealing humor.
10
"Some liberal-minded whites doubtless enjoy hearing black comics make jokes at white people’s expense because they like to imagine, in a self-congratulatory way, that their laughter constitutes an act of penance and expiation: by chuckling, they may feel they are insulating themselves against charges of racism and demonstrating their own enlightenment." And this is based on what?
If a comic is funny, people laugh. If he isn't, they don't.
If a comic is funny, people laugh. If he isn't, they don't.
5
No, the writer makes a legitimate observation. Must have struck a nerve.
7
One of the great things about comedy is its variety. I love the kind of humor that makes the audience think "is he/she serious"? This challenges the listener/viewer to think for himself and commit to laughter (or disdain). Remember that a comedian doesn't laugh at the joke (he already knows the punchline) - it's about watching YOUR reaction to the cognitive dissonance that lies at the root of all humor.
6
to me it is not funny to say things that promote lies, "the moon landing did not take place" . this does not follow from the flint michigan fiasco of bad republican government..and if you want to highlight a government action or conspiracy address that. very ignorant comparison ..and again not funny
I think it is funny because it makes you wonder what was/is invented and what is "real"... for example those who remember under Reagan the "Star Wars Missile Defense" system that got got tons of press and $$$$$ for the Pentagon? Most of that was a pure fabrication in the postproduction suite. So gotta wonder & laugh.
2
Sometimes you hear people say comics like Carmichael cross the line just to cross the line. No, he's doing it because he and many people (like me) think it's funny and that should be more than reason enough. I understand Chappelle's concern with unintended consequences (giving racists cover) but, to me, this is society's problem not the problem of the comic or his/her intended audience.
4
Maybe he could mine this nugget from the Grey lady that we can't comment on:
"Accusers Charged in Campus Account of Racist Attack"
"Accusers Charged in Campus Account of Racist Attack"
2
Black humor grows up. You expect growing pains. Or maybe its just a phase?
2
Jerrod Carmichael has a fundamental intelligence in his humor that challenges thinking. I honestly feel I get a laugh but also the opportunity for insight. The fearlessness in subject matter commands respect. He's only going to get better with experience and age.
12
I think your comment is very brave.