What’s in a Name?

We admit it -- our initial attraction to comedian Patrice O’Neal was a little silly and a lot self-absorbed. But ever since we laid eyes on the six-foot-five, 300-pound lug, we’ve grown to realize there are plenty of reasons to look out for Patrice O’Neal, same-named-ness aside. The big man has been on the rise, which is kinda funny in itself. O’Neal is a regular on the Opie & Anthony Show on XM radio and quite often has expressed a fear of success. Which is ironic, because everything he’s touched has been comedic gold. At this rate, he’s bound to make his fears come true.

Maybe you first noticed him as the funniest thing on Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn on Comedy Central. Or maybe, like us, you mourned when he gave up his stint as the host of VH1’s Web Junk 2.0. (You dare try to replace such a funny dude with Jim Breuer, VH1? Seriously?) O’Neal has also put in face time on Arrested Development and down in the warehouse at The Office. Now he seems to be pursuing fame (or at least comedic respect) on his own terms, with regular video podcasts of The Patrice O’Neal Show on his official website. Come out to see this comedian’s comedian tonight at the Improv, and just try not to weep with laughter. We dare you.
Thu., March 13, 2008