24 Black Comedians You Should Watch!

Dave Chappelle (born August 24, 1973) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and producer. He is known for his unique brand of comedy that often tackles controversial and sensitive topics, such as race relations, politics, and social issues.

Chappelle began his career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian in the early 1990s. He gained widespread recognition for his sketch comedy show, "Chappelle's Show," which aired on Comedy Central from 2003 to 2006. The show was known for its biting satire and irreverent humor, and became a cultural phenomenon.

In addition to his work in television, Chappelle has acted in numerous films, including "The Nutty Professor," "Half Baked," and "A Star is Born." He has also released several stand-up comedy specials, including "Killing Them Softly," "The Age of Spin," and "Sticks and Stones."

Chappelle has been the recipient of numerous awards for his contributions to comedy and entertainment, including four Primetime Emmy Awards and two Grammy Awards. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedians of all time and continues to perform and produce new material.

Charlie Murphy (July 12, 1959 - April 12, 2017) was an American comedian, actor, and writer. He was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and was the older brother of actor and comedian Eddie Murphy.

Charlie Murphy began his career in entertainment as a bodyguard for his younger brother Eddie, who was already a successful comedian. He later began performing stand-up comedy himself and became known for his appearances on the comedy sketch show "Chappelle's Show," where he often told hilarious stories about his experiences with celebrities.

In addition to his work in comedy, Charlie Murphy also acted in several films and television shows, including "CB4," "Harlem Nights," and "The Boondocks." He also wrote for the television series "The PJs" and "Chappelle's Show."

Charlie Murphy passed away on April 12, 2017, at the age of 57, after a battle with leukemia. His contributions to comedy and entertainment continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and fellow performers alike.

David Alan Grier (born June 30, 1956) is an American actor and comedian. He first gained national recognition for his work on the sketch comedy television show "In Living Color," which aired from 1990 to 1994.

Grier began his career in entertainment as a Broadway actor in the 1980s, and he has continued to work on stage throughout his career. He has appeared in numerous plays, including "A Soldier's Play," "Race," and "The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess."

In addition to his work on "In Living Color," Grier has appeared in a variety of television shows and films, including "Jumanji," "Boomerang," and "A Soldier's Story." He has also lent his voice to several animated projects, including "The Boondocks" and "American Dad!"

Grier has been nominated for several awards for his work in entertainment, including a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his role in "A Soldier's Play." He is known for his ability to play a wide range of characters, from comedic to dramatic, and his versatile talent has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Tiffany Haddish (born December 3, 1979) is an American actress, comedian, and author. She began her career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian, performing in comedy clubs across the country before gaining national recognition with her role in the television show "The Carmichael Show."

Haddish went on to star in several films, including "Girls Trip," "Night School," and "Like a Boss." She received critical acclaim for her performance in "Girls Trip," which earned her a nomination for the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Supporting Actress.

In addition to her work in film and television, Haddish is also a best-selling author. Her memoir, "The Last Black Unicorn," was released in 2017 and received widespread praise for its humor and honesty.

Haddish has won several awards for her work in entertainment, including a Primetime Emmy Award for her hosting duties on "Saturday Night Live." She is known for her infectious energy, sharp wit, and unapologetic approach to comedy, and continues to be a popular and influential figure in the entertainment industry.

Martin Lawrence is an American comedian, actor, producer, writer, and director who was born on April 16, 1965, in Frankfurt, Germany.

Lawrence began his career as a stand-up comedian in the late 1980s and gained national attention for his appearances on the television show "Star Search." He later went on to star in his own sitcom, "Martin," which ran from 1992 to 1997 and was a ratings success.

Lawrence has also acted in numerous films, including "Do the Right Thing," "Bad Boys," "Big Momma's House," and "The Beach Bum." He has also produced and directed several projects, including the TV series "Martin" and the film "A Thin Line Between Love and Hate."

Lawrence is known for his energetic and irreverent comedy style, as well as his ability to create memorable characters. He has been recognized for his work with several awards, including a BET Comedy Award and a NAACP Image Award.

Kevin Hart (born July 6, 1979) is an American comedian, actor, and producer. He began his career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian in the early 2000s, performing in clubs across the country and releasing several successful comedy albums.

Hart's breakthrough came with his starring role in the television show "The Big House" in 2004. He has since gone on to star in several popular films, including "Get Hard," "Central Intelligence," and "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle."

Hart is known for his irreverent humor, high-energy performances, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. He often incorporates personal experiences and anecdotes into his comedy, and has become one of the most popular and successful comedians of his generation.

In addition to his work in film and television, Hart is also a successful producer, with several hit comedy series and films to his name. He has also authored several books, including his memoir "I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons," which became a New York Times bestseller.

Hart has won numerous awards for his work in entertainment, including several People's Choice Awards and a Kids' Choice Award for Favorite Funny Star. He is also a philanthropist and activist, and has used his platform to support various charitable causes and organizations.

Katt Williams is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and rapper who was born on September 2, 1971, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Katt Williams began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 2000s and gained national attention with his appearances on comedy shows like "Wild 'N Out" and "Def Comedy Jam." He later released several comedy specials, including "The Pimp Chronicles, Part 1" and "Kattpacalypse."

Williams has also acted in several films and television shows, including "Friday After Next," "Norbit," and "Atlanta." He is known for his quick wit, observational humor, and willingness to tackle controversial topics.

In addition to his entertainment career, Williams has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families.

Williams' career has not been without controversy, however. He has faced several legal issues over the years, including arrests for assault, theft, and drug possession. He has also been involved in several public feuds with other celebrities and has faced criticism for some of his comedic material.

Despite these challenges, Williams has remained a popular figure in comedy and continues to tour and release new material. He is known for his unique comedic voice and willingness to speak his mind, even if it means stirring up controversy.

Ellen Cleghorne (born November 29, 1965) is an American comedian and actress. She began her career as a stand-up comedian, performing in clubs across the country and making several appearances on television shows like "The Arsenio Hall Show" and "Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam."

Cleghorne gained national recognition in the early 1990s, when she joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" as a featured player. She quickly became a fan favorite with her bold and energetic performances, and was later promoted to a full cast member.

In addition to her work on "Saturday Night Live," Cleghorne has appeared in several films and television shows, including "Armageddon" and "The Sinbad Show." She has also hosted her own comedy specials, including "Ellen Cleghorne: HBO Comedy Half-Hour" and "Ellen Cleghorne: Sensational."

Cleghorne is known for her brash and fearless approach to comedy, and for her ability to tackle controversial issues with humor and sensitivity. She is considered one of the trailblazers of black women in comedy, and has inspired and influenced many other comedians.

Cleghorne continues to be active in the entertainment industry and remains a respected figure in the world of comedy. Her work has earned her numerous awards and accolades, and she is considered a pioneer and a role model for aspiring comedians.

Chris Rock is an American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director. He was born on February 7, 1965, in Andrews, South Carolina, and raised in Brooklyn, New York.

Rock began his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1980s, performing in clubs and on television shows. He gained national attention as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1990 to 1993, and he later went on to star in his own comedy specials, including "Bring the Pain" and "Bigger & Blacker," which won him critical acclaim.

In addition to his comedy work, Rock has also acted in numerous films and television shows, including "New Jack City," "Lethal Weapon 4," "Head of State," and "Fargo." He has also written and produced several projects, including the TV series "Everybody Hates Chris" and the film "Top Five."

Rock is known for his edgy, politically charged humor, and his ability to tackle difficult and controversial topics with both humor and insight. He has won several Emmy Awards for his work, as well as multiple Grammy Awards for his comedy albums.

Leslie Jones (born September 7, 1967) is an American comedian, actress, and writer. She began her career as a stand-up comedian, performing in clubs across the country and making several appearances on television shows like "Comic View" and "Def Comedy Jam."

Jones gained national recognition in 2014, when she joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" as a writer and performer. She quickly became a fan favorite with her bold and energetic performances, and was nominated for an Emmy Award for her work on the show.

In addition to her work on "Saturday Night Live," Jones has also appeared in several films, including "Ghostbusters" and "Coming 2 America." She has also hosted her own comedy specials, including "Problem Child" and "Time Machine."

Jones is known for her infectious energy, fearless approach to comedy, and her ability to make audiences laugh with her relatable and personal stories. She is also an advocate for diversity in the entertainment industry, and has spoken out about the challenges faced by women and people of color in Hollywood.

Jones continues to be a popular figure in the entertainment industry and remains active in both comedy and acting. She is considered one of the most talented and influential comedians of her generation, and her work has inspired and entertained audiences around the world.

David Mann (born August 7, 1966) is an American actor, comedian, and gospel singer. He is best known for his portrayal of Mr. Brown in the stage play, film, and television series "Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns."

Mann began his career in entertainment as a gospel singer and later transitioned into acting. He has appeared in numerous stage plays and television shows, including "Mann & Wife," a sitcom that he starred in alongside his wife, Tamela Mann.

In addition to his work in television and theater, Mann has acted in several films, including "Madea Goes to Jail," "Meet the Browns," and "A Madea Family Funeral," all of which were directed by Tyler Perry.

Mann is also a successful gospel singer and has released several albums, including "Mr. Brown's Good Ol' Time Church" and "Tamela Mann: Best Days." He has won several awards for his work in both acting and music, including several NAACP Image Awards.

Known for his larger-than-life personality and comedic timing, Mann is a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and continues to be a popular actor and comedian.

Robin Thede is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer who was born on July 27, 1979, in Davenport, Iowa.

Thede began her career as a writer and performer on the sketch comedy show "All That" on Nickelodeon. She later went on to write for "The Queen Latifah Show," "The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore," and "The Rundown with Robin Thede," a late-night comedy show that she created, wrote, produced, and starred in.

Thede has also acted in several television shows and movies, including "Key and Peele," "A Haunted House," and "Difficult People." She has received critical acclaim for her work as a writer and performer, including being named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world in 2017.

In addition to her work in entertainment, Thede is also an advocate for social justice and has used her platform to speak out on issues such as police brutality and the Black Lives Matter movement. She is considered a trailblazer for Black women in comedy and has inspired many young comedians and writers.

John Elroy Sanford (December 9, 1922 – October 11, 1991), better known by his stage name Redd Foxx, was an American comedian and actor. He is best known for his role as Fred G. Sanford on the television sitcom "Sanford and Son."

Foxx began his career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian in the 1940s, performing in clubs across the country and recording several popular comedy albums. He became known for his edgy, adult-oriented humor, and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

In the 1970s, Foxx became a household name with his role as Fred G. Sanford on "Sanford and Son," a show that was known for its humor and its groundbreaking portrayal of African American life. Foxx's portrayal of Fred G. Sanford earned him several awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy.

In addition to his work on television, Foxx appeared in several films, including "Cotton Comes to Harlem" and "Harlem Nights." He continued to perform stand-up comedy throughout his career, and was known for his quick wit, irreverent humor, and sharp social commentary.

Foxx's impact on the comedy world is still felt today, and he is considered one of the most influential and groundbreaking comedians of all time. He passed away in 1991, but his legacy as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry continues to inspire generations of comedians and actors.

Cedric Antonio Kyles, better known as Cedric the Entertainer, is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer who was born on April 24, 1964, in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Cedric the Entertainer began his career as a stand-up comedian and gained national attention as a cast member on the sketch comedy show "In Living Color" in the early 1990s. He went on to star in his own sitcom, "The Steve Harvey Show," and later hosted his own talk show, "The Cedric the Entertainer Show."

Cedric the Entertainer has also acted in numerous films, including "Barbershop," "Be Cool," "Madagascar," and "The Intouchables." He has lent his voice to several animated films, including "Ice Age" and "Planes." Cedric the Entertainer has also hosted several high-profile events, including the Emmy Awards and the "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" game show.

Cedric the Entertainer is known for his smooth delivery, relatable humor, and likable personality. He has been recognized for his work with several awards, including a BET Comedy Award, a NAACP Image Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.

In addition to his entertainment career, Cedric the Entertainer is also involved in philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families.

Tracy Morgan is an American actor, comedian, and writer who was born on November 10, 1968, in The Bronx, New York City.

Morgan began his career as a stand-up comedian and gained national attention as a cast member on the sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He later starred in his own sitcom, "The Tracy Morgan Show," which aired for one season in 2003.

Morgan is also known for his roles in several films and television shows, including "30 Rock," "The Longest Yard," "Cop Out," and "The Last O.G." He has received several award nominations for his performances, including two Primetime Emmy Award nominations.

Morgan is known for his irreverent humor, energetic delivery, and willingness to tackle controversial topics. He has also been praised for his ability to bring depth and humanity to his comedic performances.

In addition to his entertainment career, Morgan has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families. He has also been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, following a serious car accident in 2014 that left him with traumatic brain injuries.

Morgan continues to perform stand-up comedy and act in film and television projects. He is regarded as one of the most talented and influential comedians of his generation.

Aisha Tyler is an American actress, comedian, and writer who was born on September 18, 1970, in San Francisco, California.

Tyler began her career as a stand-up comedian in the mid-1990s and gained national attention as a co-host on the talk show "The Talk" from 2011 to 2017. She is also known for her roles on several television shows, including "Friends," "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," and "Archer."

In addition to her work in television, Tyler has appeared in several films, including "Balls of Fury," "Death Sentence," and "Axis." She has also lent her voice to several video games, including "Halo: Reach" and "Gears of War 3."

Tyler is known for her sharp wit, irreverent humor, and willingness to tackle controversial topics. She has been praised for her ability to bring humor and heart to her performances, and for her versatility as an actress and comedian.

In addition to her entertainment career, Tyler has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families. She is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken publicly about her struggles with depression and anxiety.

Tyler continues to act, write, and perform in various projects. She is regarded as one of the most talented and dynamic comedians of her generation.

Wanda Sykes (born March 7, 1964) is an American comedian, actress, and writer. She began her career as a stand-up comedian, performing in clubs across the country and making several appearances on television shows like "The Chris Rock Show" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm."

Sykes gained national recognition in the early 2000s, with her own comedy specials and a recurring role on "The New Adventures of Old Christine." She has since appeared in several films and television shows, including "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" and "Black-ish."

Sykes is known for her sharp wit, political commentary, and her ability to turn personal experiences into hilarious comedy. She is also an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights and has used her platform to raise awareness of social and political issues.

In addition to her work in entertainment, Sykes is also a writer and producer, with several successful television series and specials to her name. She has won several awards for her work, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Special.

Sykes continues to be a popular figure in the entertainment industry and remains active in both comedy and activism. She is considered one of the most talented and influential comedians of her generation, and her work has inspired and entertained audiences around the world.

Steve Harvey (born January 17, 1957) is an American comedian, television host, actor, and author. He began his career in stand-up comedy in the late 1980s and gained national recognition with his appearance on the television show "Showtime at the Apollo."

Harvey went on to host several television shows, including "The Steve Harvey Show," a sitcom that aired from 1996 to 2002, and "Family Feud," a game show that he has hosted since 2010. He has also hosted a variety of other programs, including the Miss Universe pageant and his own talk show, "Steve."

In addition to his work on television, Harvey has acted in several films, including "The Original Kings of Comedy," "Think Like a Man," and "Jumping the Broom." He is also a best-selling author, having written several self-help books, including "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man," which was adapted into a successful film.

Harvey has received numerous awards for his work in entertainment, including several NAACP Image Awards and a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host. He is known for his quick wit, engaging personality, and motivational speaking, and continues to be a popular figure in both television and comedy.

Eddie Murphy is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer who was born on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York.

Murphy started his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1980s and quickly rose to fame with his comedic performances on Saturday Night Live. He went on to star in several successful movies, including "Beverly Hills Cop," "Coming to America," and "The Nutty Professor." Murphy has also been recognized for his voice-over work in animated films such as "Shrek" and "Mulan."

In addition to his work in comedy and film, Murphy has also released several music albums, including "How Could It Be" and "Love's Alright." He has won multiple awards throughout his career, including a Golden Globe award for his performance in "Dreamgirls" and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2020 Creative Arts Emmy Awards.

Murphy is known for his dynamic and versatile comedic performances, as well as his ability to create memorable characters. He is considered one of the most successful comedians and actors of his generation and has inspired many younger comedians and performers.

Richard Pryor (December 1, 1940 – December 10, 2005) was an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and groundbreaking comedians of all time, known for his frank, personal, and often profane observations on race, politics, and social issues.

Pryor began his career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian in the 1960s and 1970s, performing in clubs across the country and releasing several popular comedy albums. He also acted in several films, including "Lady Sings the Blues," "Car Wash," and "Silver Streak."

In the 1980s, Pryor became known for his semi-autobiographical films, including "Richard Pryor Live on the Sunset Strip" and "Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life is Calling." He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in "Lady Sings the Blues" and won several Grammy Awards for his comedy albums.

Pryor was known for his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, and his influence on the comedy world is still felt today. He broke down barriers with his unflinching portrayals of race, drug use, and other taboo subjects, paving the way for generations of comedians who followed in his footsteps. Despite personal struggles with drug addiction and health issues, Pryor remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and a true icon of American comedy.

Chris Tucker (born August 31, 1971) is an American actor and comedian. He first gained national recognition with his role as Smokey in the 1995 film "Friday," which became a cult classic.

Tucker is also known for his role as Detective James Carter in the "Rush Hour" film series, alongside Jackie Chan. He has also appeared in several other films, including "The Fifth Element," "Money Talks," and "Silver Linings Playbook."

In addition to his work in film, Tucker has also had a successful career as a stand-up comedian, performing in comedy clubs across the country and releasing several popular comedy specials.

Tucker's comedic style is characterized by his high-energy delivery, impressions, and his ability to imitate various accents. He is known for his unique voice and distinctive laugh, which have become hallmarks of his comedic persona.

Tucker continues to be a popular figure in the entertainment industry and remains active in both film and comedy. Despite taking a break from performing for several years, he returned to the stage in 2015 with a new comedy tour, which was met with critical acclaim.

Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, better known by his stage name Bernie Mac, was an American comedian, actor, and producer who was born on October 5, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois.

Bernie Mac began his career in comedy in the late 1980s and gained national attention with his stand-up comedy performances on HBO's "Def Comedy Jam." He later starred in his own sitcom, "The Bernie Mac Show," which ran from 2001 to 2006 and earned him several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award and a Peabody Award.

Mac also acted in several films, including "Friday," "Ocean's Eleven," "Bad Santa," and "Transformers." He was known for his comedic timing, larger-than-life personality, and ability to bring humor to serious topics.

In addition to his entertainment career, Mac was involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provided education and support for children and families in need. Mac was also diagnosed with sarcoidosis, a lung disease, and used his platform to raise awareness about the disease and advocate for better treatment options.

Mac passed away on August 9, 2008, at the age of 50, due to complications from pneumonia. He is remembered as a trailblazer in comedy and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Debra Wilson is an American actress, comedian, and voice-over artist who was born on April 26, 1962, in South Ozone Park, Queens, New York City.

Wilson is best known for her work on the sketch comedy show "MADtv," where she was a cast member from 1995 to 2003. She became known for her spot-on impressions of celebrities like Whitney Houston, Oprah Winfrey, and Queen Latifah.

In addition to her work on "MADtv," Wilson has appeared in several films and television shows, including "Scary Movie 4," "Avatar: The Last Airbender," and "The Boondocks." She has also provided voice-over work for video games, including "Star Trek: Klingon Academy" and "Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater."

Wilson is known for her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring humor and heart to her performances. She has been praised for her ability to embody a wide range of characters and for her improvisational skills.

In addition to her entertainment career, Wilson has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families.

Wilson continues to act and perform in various projects. She is regarded as one of the most talented and versatile comedians of her generation.

Sherri Shepherd is an American actress, comedian, and television personality who was born on April 22, 1967, in Chicago, Illinois.

Shepherd is best known for her work as a co-host on the daytime talk show "The View" from 2007 to 2014. She has also appeared in several films and television shows, including "Precious," "30 Rock," and "How I Met Your Mother."

In addition to her work in entertainment, Shepherd has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting organizations that provide education and support for underprivileged children and families. She is also a vocal advocate for diabetes awareness, having been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2007.

Shepherd is known for her infectious energy, sharp wit, and willingness to tackle controversial topics. She has been praised for her ability to bring humor and heart to her performances, and for her dedication to using her platform to raise awareness about important social issues.

Shepherd continues to act, host, and perform in various projects. She is regarded as one of the most talented and influential comedians and television personalities of her generation.