Netflix, the world’s leading Internet TV network, is bringing its members two brand newcomedy specialsfrom one of the funniest and most influential comedians of all time: the one and onlyChris Rock. Marking the multiple Emmy Award-winning comedian’s return to stand-up after an eight-year absence, Rock will tape two all-new specials that will debut on Netflix around the world. The first show will tape in 2017, following a new world tour being planned now. Here’s whatTed Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer, had to say in his statement.
“Chris Rockis a beloved actor and director, and his remarkable stand-up makes himcomic royalty. There is no one like him, andNetflixoffers the global platform and creative freedom that will serve as a perfect home for someone with his incredible talent.”
Lauded by peers and critics alike, Chris Rock is one of our generation’s strongest comedic voices. As an actor, director, producer and writer he has created many memorable moments.Rockreturned in 2016 to host the 88th AnnualAcademy Awards. In the past year, he has directed HBO’s comedy specialAmy Schumer: Live at the Apollo, guest-starred on the hit seriesEmpireand made an appearance in the Netflix holiday specialA Very Murray Christmas, starringBill Murray. Here’s whatChris Rockhad to say in his own statement.
“I’m very excited to be working with Ted and Lisa and all the good people at Netflix. I can’t wait to get back on stage.”
Beyond Emmy-winning original scripted series, Oscar and Emmy-nominated documentaries and films, Netflix has rapidly become the home of top original stand-up comedy specials, including the 2016 Emmy-nominated shows fromJohn MulaneyandPatton Oswalt, and recent specials fromCedric the Entertainer,Iliza Shlesinger,Jeff FoxworthyandLarry the Cable Guy,Russell Peters,Ali Wong,Mike Epps,Aziz Ansari,Anjelah Johnson,Bill Burr,Chris Tucker,Demetri Martin,Chelsea Handler,Bo Burnham,Jim Jefferies,David Crossand upcoming specials fromJoe Rogan,Dana Carvey,Michael Che,Gabriel Iglesias,Reggie WattsandColin Quinn(directed byJerry Seinfeld). Here’s whatLisa Nishimura, VP of Original Documentary and Comedy, had to say in a statement.
“Increasingly, Netflix is becoming the preeminent destination forstand-up comedy, partnering with top-tier talent across a wide variety of styles and humor, enabling them to bring their fresh, distinctive and hilarious voices to our members in 190 countries around the world. Our members discover every day that we truly offer something for every comedy fan, and the comedians we partner with understand the power of having a direct line to our ever-growing global audience. Coming on the heels of our first Emmy win in the category (Patton Oswalt: Talking for Clapping), now is the perfect time to take things to the next level withChris Rock.”
With a career spanning more than three decades,Rockhas enjoyed ongoing success in both film and television as a comedian, actor, writer, producer and director. In 2014 he led the ensemble cast ofTop Five, a critically acclaimed comedy feature that he also wrote and directed. In 2009Rockventured into the documentary world as a writer and producer ofGood Hair, and in 2014 he executive producedEat Drink Laugh: The Story of the Comic Strip, a documentary recounting the history of one of New York’s most famous comedy venues.
His feature acting credits include theGrown UpsandMadagascarfranchises,Head of State,Nurse Betty,CB4,Death at a Funeral,I Think I Love My Wife,2 Days in New York,DogmaandNew Jack City. His television work includes hosting, writing and executive producingThe Chris Rock Show. He served as executive producer, writer and narrator for the seriesEverybody Hates Chris, which ran from 2005 to 2009, and as a cast member onSaturday Night Livefrom 1989-1993.Rockhas won four Emmy Awards, three Grammy Awards and is a New York Times Best-Selling Author. In addition, he received two nominations for the 2016 Emmy Awards, for Outstanding Director for a Variety Special forAmy Schumer: Live at the Apollo, and Outstanding Special Class Program for the88th Annual Academy Awards.
