Dave Chappelle is the best modern comedian

During the early 90s, America was delighted by legendary comedians George Carlin and Bill Hicks. Carlin was notorious for his painful truth in his comedic act while Hicks was more “out there” with his criticism of the war on drugs. Both comics were known for their angry delivery on stage, but were only getting older. By the late 90s, a new comedian by the name of Dave Chappelle took over as America’s top comedian.

Early in his career, Chappelle released his first special “Killin’ them Softly” in 2000 prior to creating the Chappelle’s Show on Comedy Central in 2003. 

The show was the only thing aside from South Park bringing viewers to the network. After releasing his second special “For what it’s Worth” in 2004, Chappelle abruptly left Hollywood in 2006, declining 50 million dollars from the network.

Nobody knew why he left, but a decade later, Chappelle came back and now has four specials on Netflix, with his most recent “Sticks and Stones” released on August 26. 

Despite disappearing for over 10 years, Chappelle is back on top and, more importantly, still displays a powerful sense of humor.

To no surprise, Chappelle’s most recent special offended many people including “News” organizations like Vice. However, Chappelle is the best at taking untouchable, yet serious topics like racism, LGBTQ and the opioid crisis and making them funny. 

While many other comedians would shy away from controversy, Chappelle steps up to the challenge and gives his perspective on an issue, but also making it hilarious and entertaining.

In a world that is sacrificing its sense of humor to comfort the feelings of individuals, Chappelle’s comedy is the voice we need. Despite laughing throughout the special, I noticed the power of what he said about racism, and I think that’s what his intent as a comedian has always been. When we laugh at something, we tend to listen more, and the world needs to listen more.

When Chappelle turned down $50 million in 2006, he wasn’t running away from a good opportunity, but rather manipulation. 

Most of us listen to celebrities because of their stage, but Chappelle realized he was being tortured for the sake of views. He didn’t want to sell his soul, so he disappeared.

“The idea of being courageous that even though you’re being scared, you just do the right thing anyway.” Chappelle said during his commencement speech at Allen University.

Even though many critics think his comedy is insensitive, I believe Chappelle is a true inspiration. He knows his words are his own and gave up a grand opportunity when he felt his integrity was threatened.

Think of another person who walked away from a disastrous situation, collected themselves for nine years and came back with the same hard-hitting humor. I bet your mind comes up blank, and it should because this is a rare story.

Chappelle is the comedian we all should listen to. This guy sacrificed his success to do what he felt is right and ended up more successful. 

To me, that is the true definition of a hero and a leader. Also, the world just needs to laugh during these scary times, and nobody is more qualified than Dave himself. Who knows, you may learn something from his hilarious, yet thought provoking comedy.

If you are interested in checking out some of Chappelle’s work, I recommend you to watch the “Prince Skit” from the Chappelle’s Show, I promise you will laugh hysterically.

You should also check out his Netflix specials while you can. Who knows, Dave may “Make America wait again”.