Donnell Rawlings & Friends
Donnell Rawlings always keeps busy. Aside from his “Chappelle’s Show” stints, where he created the character Ashy Larry, he’s released three comedy albums and appeared in numerous movies, TV programs and comedy shows over the last 20 years, including in 2021’s Netflix stand-up show “The Degenerates.”
We all saw Will Smith slap Chris Rock over a joke. Have you ever had anyone try to get physical with you during a set?
Most definitely. I’ve had instances where hecklers got crazy, and I felt that negative energy and thought it could get physical, which it almost did, but luckily there were good security and bouncers. But it was more than 20 years ago, early in my career before there was social media. I just let loose on them; luckily it didn’t get physical. It was in the ‘90s, and so early in my career I had nothing to lose, I was just a young comic.
What are your thoughts on stand-up comedy in 2022 and cancel culture?
To me, cancel culture represents some people who may not be in line with your thoughts and opinions, so they wanna stop your cash flow. Cancel culture doesn’t care about apologies, they only really care about the bottom line. That’s where they know they can control you. But when you’re not bowing to networks or corporations, you have more freedom to express yourself the way you want to without worrying about censorship or the cancel culture taking money out of your pocket. Most comics who are successful against cancel culture are the ones who empower themselves with a large fan base, and they can make enough money to earn a living, whether cancel culture attacks them or not.
For stand-up comedians, should no topic be off-limits for jokes?
Well I believe in total freedom of speech, but with having freedom of speech you still gotta be responsible with your words. A joke can be too soon, but it never can be too soon for a funny observation. Just because you can go out and curse for 45 minutes doesn’t mean you should. People can say whatever they want for sure, but at least have some class and some tactics, and be sure you’re actually saying something real.
Can you tell us anything about your show at the Improv, or any other performances you will be at for the festival?
A lot of my friends will be in town at the time, so there’s a chance a well-known comedian could pop up for my show, but I can’t say who. My show at the Improv is sold out, so I’m excited. Plus, since we’re good friends, I know I will be opening at least two of Dave Chappelle’s shows at the Hollywood Bowl. It should be a fun week.
Donnell Rawlings performs at 7 p.m. at the Hollywood Improv, 8162 Melrose Ave.