Comedian Don “D.C.” Curry was shot-putted to the forefront of African American comedy when the jokester hosted the legendary BET ComicView. His relentless turbo delivery and cat-quick wit busted up nightclubs nationwide and once earned him the Comedian of the Year award. Rolling out recently caught up with the funny man, while he was taking assessment of the burgeoning Hollywood presence in the ATL. Curry also talks about his ability to keep his comedy fresh and cutting edge after all these years.
RO: How are you able to keep your comedy routine spicy and flavorful after so many years in the biz?
Curry: I always believed that comedy meant something, that it provoked thought. You know, while comedy being … totally fictitious is in order, some of it makes me laugh. The funniest things are the most ironic things, to me. The funniest subjects are about life itself. It’s about the news. If you keep up with what’s happening, you’ll never be at a shortage of material. Because life — no matter what it is — always has a humorous side. Timing is important, and sometimes it’s important to wait until it’s the right time. But I found absolutely nothing that has no humorous vibe to it.
RO: Many entertainers, especially actors, are calling the ATL their home. That, along with the emergence of Tyler Perry Studios has people labeling Atlanta “Hollywood South.” What are your thoughts?
Curry: Over the last few years, it has appeared as though … this is the new Mecca sort of … for the industry. I think that’s a wonderful thing. [There] will be more opportunities … for people who may or may not be able to up and leave to go to New York. I think it’s a great thing. I think that Atlanta is a hub … and there is a great industry here. … There’s a lot of talent down here that otherwise would not be exposed. I’m excited about it.”
