Netflixhas announced today that Emmy Award-winning comedianChris Rockis returning to stand-up for the first time in eight years with two brand new comedy specials. He will tape his first show in 2017 following a new world tour that is currently being planned. Both of the original comedy specials will debut exclusively on the Netflix service across the world.
“Chris Rock is a beloved actor and director, and his remarkable stand-up makes him comic royalty. There is no one like him, and Netflix offers the global platform and creative freedom that will serve as a perfect home for someone with his incredible talent,” Netflix Chief Content OfficerTed Sarandossaid in a press release from the network.
“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,” said Rock.
Netflix VP of Original Documentary and ComedyLisa Nishimurasees now as the perfect time to “take things to the next level” with Chris Rock. “Increasingly, Netflix is becoming the preeminent destination for stand-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,” she said.
This announcement comes soon after Netflix’s Emmy win forPatton Oswalt: Talking for Clapping.Netflix has been establishing themselves as a destination for original stand-up comedy specials, with recent shows includingJohn Mulaney, 2016 Emmy-nominated shows from John Mulaney and Patton 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). Chris Rock is the latest to be added to their roster, and considering his popularity as a comedian, actor, writer, and producer, it’s a big “get” for the service.
