Comedy is more than just trying to make people laugh; it’s the way the comic integrates their own life experiences, the good and the bad, into a captivating and comical performance. When it comes to J. Snow’s comedy, he does just that.
The Los Angeles-based comic, actor, writer and director has achieved many successes, from YouTube videos and short films to producing popular MTV shows such as “Fear Factor” and “Wild N Out.” His latest artistic endeavor is Life Is Funny, a new stand-up special that is not only hilarious but perfectly personal to his experiences, including his journey with sickle cell anemia.
We had the opportunity to chat with J. about his special, his comedic inspirations and the benefit of weaving humor through life.
How long did it take you to prepare for Life Is Funny?
“I say this in my special but I actually got the call to tape this two weeks prior while in the hospital. I had no time to tour it or run it in any clubs cuz honestly, I’m just not that far yet. But, I still managed to get sharp enough to deliver.”
Life is Funny is your debut comedy special, but you’re very well-versed in many creative outlets, from YouTube to television and short films. How does recording a comedy special differ from recording film and television projects?
“The special was different because unlike working on TV shows, the special was 100% up to me to create and deliver. When you write for shows, YouTube or other people, it can go a lot of different ways because everyone has an idea. I like the fact that when I’m on stage, it’s all on me. Mostly because I believe my ideas are always the best idea.
In the special, you talk about your journey with sickle cell anemia. How has speaking about your diagnosis in your comedy helped you? Also, how have you seen it affect other people who are going through something similar?
“Speaking about this has built a bridge to the world that I didn’t realize I so badly needed. It has given people a doorway to getting to know the real me. It’s made the world a little smaller for other sickle cell carriers. I’m happy to have finally owned it because it’s proving to be very rewarding.”
What comedians/films/TV shows inspired your style of comedy?
“Anything Dave Chappelle related. I love Billy Burr, Patrice O’Neal, Sydney Castillo, the list goes on. I love too many movies but to name a few, ‘Coming to America’ and ‘Talladega Nights.’ TV shows? I don’t watch much TV these days but I did love ‘Common Side Affects.’”
What keeps you creatively inspired?
“Life. I literally can pull comedy or creativity from any real life moment. Life keeps me inspired.”
If you could perform stand-up anywhere in the world, where would you pick and why?
“I would pick SoFi Stadium, because to sell that out in my hometown would be un-real!”
What do you hope new fans of your comedy take away from your special?
“That I’m dope, and I’ve been dope for a while, now it’s time to get on board with all things J. Snow…this is just the beginning in so many ways.”
What do you find the most rewarding about being an entertainer?
“I get paid to be ME.”
Where can people catch your upcoming live shows?
“Check my Instagram for show updates. Depending on when this comes out either the Laugh Factory, Improv or somewhere in between.”
You can watch J. Snow’s stand-up special, Life Is Funny, now available on