From arena headliners like Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Chris Tucker, Katt Williams, and Martin Lawrence to ensemble showcases like We Them One’s and Big Black Comedy Show, 2026 offers one of the most stacked lineups of Black comedy in recent memory. Add in Cedric the Entertainer, Mo’Nique, Tracy Morgan, Chris Redd, Jay Pharoah, and Marlon Wayans, and fans can expect a year of laughter that celebrates both the heritage and future of stand-up.
Here is a list that we have compiled heading into 2026 (so far);
2026 is stacked with comedy: Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, Katt Williams, Chris Tucker, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, Mo’Nique, Tracy Morgan, Marlon Wayans, Chris Redd, Jay Pharoah, George Lopez, and the We Them One’s crew are all touring nationally. From arena spectacles to intimate theater shows, this calendar proves it’s a landmark year for Black comedy.
Here is a clip from one of the latest episodes of Box Seats, where comedian/actor Howie Bell talks about the Marcus Freeman discussion coming to the NFL.
Box Seats is the show where comedians talk sports daily!
Check out the clip above and tune in to Box Seats daily from 5-6 pm EST on all of the Humor Mill Social Platforms!
Isiah Whitlock Jr., whose career spanned more than three decades across television, film, and theater, has died at 71. The Indiana-born actor was celebrated for his versatility, his memorable catchphrase “sheeeee-it,” and his collaborations with director Spike Lee.
Whitlock’s manager, Brian Liebman, shared the news on Instagram, writing: “It is with tremendous sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend and client Isiah Whitlock Jr. If you knew him — you loved him. A brilliant actor and even better person. May his memory forever be a blessing. Our hearts are so broken. He will be very, very missed.”
Whitlock became a household name through his portrayal of Senator Clay Davis on HBO’s hit series The Wire. His elongated delivery of the word “sheeeee-it” became one of the show’s most quoted lines, cementing his place in pop culture. He later appeared on HBO’s Veep as Secretary of Defense George Maddox, showcasing his comedic timing alongside Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Beyond television, Whitlock was a frequent collaborator with Spike Lee, appearing in six of the director’s films, including 25th Hour, She Hate Me, Chi-Raq, BlacKkKlansman, Red Hook Summer, and Da 5 Bloods. His ability to move seamlessly between drama and comedy made him one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors.
Whitlock’s career included appearances in Law & Order, Your Honor, Chappelle’s Show, and the 2025 Netflix series The Residence. He also had small roles in films like Goodfellas and Bad Times at the El Royale, further demonstrating his range.
Born in South Bend, Indiana, Whitlock built a career that resonated with audiences across generations. His catchphrase, his commanding presence, and his ability to embody complex characters left a lasting mark on television and film.
Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to mourn his passing, remembering him not only as a gifted performer but also as a warm, generous person off-screen.
Isiah Whitlock Jr.’s death marks the loss of a true character actor whose work elevated every project he touched. From the gritty streets of Baltimore in The Wire to the satirical halls of power in Veep, Whitlock brought authenticity, humor, and depth to his roles. His legacy will live on in the countless performances that continue to inspire audiences.
Christopher Nolan’s next film, The Odyssey, is a mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new IMAX® film technology. The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX® film screens for the first time and opens in theaters everywhere on July 17, 2026.
The Odyssey stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, and Lupita Nyong’o, with Zendaya and Charlize Theron.
The Odyssey is produced by Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan for their company, Syncopy. The executive producer is Thomas Hayslip.
Watch the new trailer above!
On fight night, just before the main event, Dave Chappelle appeared on the livestream to announce the news. He thanked his hometown audience in Washington, D.C., where the special was filmed in October, and revealed that the show would be streaming on Netflix that same evening. The announcement caught fans off guard, as there had been no prior promotion or buildup.
The new special sees Chappelle tackling a wide range of topics with his signature mix of humor and provocation. According to Netflix’s logline, the show delivers “bold truths and potent punchlines in this no-holds-barred special.” Chappelle dives into politics, free speech debates, and cultural controversies, weaving personal storytelling with sharp social critique.
Critics note that the special includes commentary on the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and Chappelle’s own decision to perform in Saudi Arabia, underscoring his willingness to confront sensitive issues head-on.
Since signing with Netflix in 2016, Chappelle has released a string of acclaimed specials, including The Age of Spin, Equanimity, Sticks & Stones, and The Closer. The Unstoppable continues that streak, cementing his reputation as one of the most influential and controversial voices in modern comedy.
This marks his eighth Netflix special, a testament to both his enduring popularity and his ability to spark conversation across cultural divides.
The surprise drop created immediate buzz online, with fans praising Chappelle’s ability to deliver laughs while addressing uncomfortable truths. Social media lit up with clips and reactions, many noting that the timing—right after a major boxing event—was a clever way to maximize attention.
Dave Chappelle’s The Unstoppable is more than just another comedy special—it’s a cultural event. By releasing it without warning, Chappelle reminded audiences of his knack for unpredictability and his refusal to play by traditional rules. Whether you agree with his takes or not, the special proves once again that Chappelle remains one of comedy’s most fearless voices.
Release Date: December 18, 2025
Platform: Netflix
Filmed: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Special Title: The Unstoppable
Roy Wood Jr., best known for his sharp wit on The Daily Show and his stand-up specials, is back at the helm of Have I Got News For You. The U.S. version of the long-running British panel show has quickly become a hit since its debut in 2024, averaging around 2 million viewers per week and ranking among CNN’s most popular original programs.
The new season premieres Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 9 PM ET/PT on CNN, with episodes available to stream the following day on CNN’s digital platforms. Produced by Hat Trick Productions—the same company behind the BBC original—the show continues its blend of comedy, satire, and panel discussions on the week’s political and cultural news.
Roy Wood Jr. will be joined once again by team captains Amber Ruffin and Michael Ian Black, whose chemistry and comedic timing have become staples of the series. Past seasons have featured a wide range of guest panelists, including Lewis Black, Paula Poundstone, Joy Reid, Kara Swisher, Mae Martin, and Adam Kinzinger, ensuring a mix of political insight and comedic punch.
Season Four promises more of the biting humor and absurd takes on current events that fans have come to love. In a joint statement, Wood Jr., Ruffin, and Black joked: “Thank goodness we’ve got season four of our show to make sense of this perfectly normal time we’re in where everything is stark-raving normal. A time in which everything is fine and nothing is wrong. Amen.”
The renewal underscores CNN’s commitment to expanding its comedy programming, offering viewers a satirical lens on politics during a turbulent election year. For Roy Wood Jr., it’s another chance to showcase his unique blend of humor and commentary, solidifying his role as one of America’s leading voices in political comedy.
With Roy Wood Jr. back in the host’s chair, Have I Got News For You enters its fourth season with momentum and confidence. The combination of sharp satire, diverse panelists, and topical humor ensures the show remains a standout in late-night comedy. Fans can expect laughs, surprises, and plenty of irreverent takes on the headlines when the series returns in January.
Premiere Date: January 24, 2026
Network: CNN Host: Roy Wood Jr.
Team Captains: Amber Ruffin, Michael Ian Black
Production: Hat Trick Productions
Clifford “T.I.” Harris has built a career as one of hip-hop’s most influential voices, but his latest venture proves he’s not afraid to reinvent himself. After years of experimenting with stand-up at local clubs, T.I. is now releasing his first-ever comedy special, Cheaper Than Therapy, a bold move that cements his transition from rapper to comedian.
The newly released trailer teases a set filled with sharp wit and unapologetic honesty. T.I. tackles themes ranging from the chaos of fame to family life and marriage, all delivered with his signature charisma. In a nod to comedy history, he even dons a red leather suit reminiscent of Eddie Murphy’s Delirious, signaling his respect for the legends while carving out his own lane.
Cheaper Than Therapy was filmed at Atlanta’s Center Stage, with a packed audience that included hometown stars like Usher, The-Dream, and Young Dro. T.I. also shared the spotlight with his comedy collective, The HaHa Mafia, underscoring his commitment to building a community around his new craft.
The special will debut December 24, 2025, exclusively via TipAintFunny.com, with pre-orders already available.
For T.I., comedy isn’t just a side project—it’s a new chapter. He’s faced skepticism from veteran comedians but has steadily honed his skills, proving that his storytelling ability translates seamlessly from music to stand-up. The special’s title, Cheaper Than Therapy, reflects his belief in the healing power of laughter, especially during the holiday season.
With Cheaper Than Therapy, T.I. is inviting fans to see him in a new light—not as a rapper, but as a comedian unafraid to laugh at himself and the world around him. The trailer promises a mix of humor, honesty, and cultural commentary, making this Christmas Eve release one of the most anticipated comedy debuts of the year.
Release Date: December 24, 2025
Platform: TipAintFunny.com
Special Guests: Usher, The-Dream, Young Dro, The HaHa Mafia
Bowen Yang, who joined SNL as a writer in 2018 before becoming a featured player in 2019, quickly rose to prominence as one of the show’s most versatile and beloved performers. He made history as the first Chinese-American cast member and one of the show’s first openly gay stars, earning acclaim for his sharp wit, memorable characters, and fearless comedic style.
His departure comes in the middle of Season 51, with his final episode airing on December 20, 2025. Fittingly, the show will be hosted by his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, with Cher as the musical guest. Yang’s exit follows a wave of recent cast changes, including the departures of Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, and members of the Please Don’t Destroy trio, signaling a new era for the long-running NBC institution.
During his time on SNL, Yang became a breakout star, delivering unforgettable sketches like “Iceberg That Sank the Titanic” and “Weekend Update” appearances that showcased his unique comedic voice. Beyond Studio 8H, he built a thriving career with roles in films such as Fire Island and Bros, appearances in the Wicked franchise, and his popular podcast Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers.
Yang’s decision to leave reflects his expanding opportunities in Hollywood and his growing influence as a cultural figure. While fans will miss his presence on SNL, his departure underscores the show’s tradition of launching performers into broader stardom.
Bowen Yang’s exit is both a loss for Saturday Night Live and a testament to his impact. As he moves on to new projects, his legacy on the show remains secure: a trailblazer who brought fresh perspectives, sharp humor, and unforgettable performances to one of television’s most enduring stages.
Best known for her roles in The Good Doctor and Misfits, Antonia Thomas will portray Clare, the head preservationist overseeing the dig site’s lab and museum. Clare is described as someone most comfortable in a world of privilege, slightly out of place in the cargo-clad, casual environment of the excavation team.
Dig is adapted from Kate Myers’ bestselling novel Excavation and follows four women working at an archeological dig in Greece, each at very different crossroads in their lives. When the team uncovers a long-buried secret with the potential to rewrite history, they find themselves thrust into a high-stakes international conspiracy.
The series features a star-studded ensemble including Amy Poehler, Hugh Laurie, Geraldine Viswanathan, Fina Strazza, and now Thomas. Poehler not only stars but also co-wrote the pilot with Mike Schur and JJ Philbin, while serving as an executive producer alongside Schur, Myers, Morgan Sackett, Dave Becky, and others.
The addition of Thomas brings fresh energy to the already dynamic cast. Her character adds a unique perspective to the group dynamic, balancing privilege with the gritty realities of fieldwork. With Poehler and Schur at the helm, Dig promises sharp comedy, layered storytelling, and the kind of character-driven humor that made Parks and Recreation a cultural touchstone.
Cedric has finally responded to the claims via the “Funny Knowing You” podcast with comedian Deon Cole. When asked straight up if someone ever stole a joke from him, Cedric said, “Yeah man, Katt Williams.” The two comedians laughed for a long time, and Cedric then said, “I think about it in the sense that we actually do live culturally in the same kind of energy. And I always think that my particular sense of humor is mine,” he continued. “You might do something that’s similar to my idea, but I kind of grew up as a wordsmith, and we use a lot of language. We use a lot of wordplay in my family. So I just never like really bought into it unless somebody literally did my joke.”
Cedric chalked it up as part of the business and in talking about his memory from that St. Louis show, he said the kid who stole his joke (Williams) was arrogant. Cole went on to ask if Cedric was hurt by Williams’ viral interview with Shannon Sharpe, and he said he wasn’t.
“I was more disappointed that it started this energy where comics was going on dogging other comics,” Cedric said. He shared that he’s been around Williams and claims he never mentioned anything to him. He said, “You’re talking about something that happened in 2001, and now you in 2024 acting like the shit just happened.”
During the interview, Cedric also rattled off his resume and the jobs he’s got going on, including his Las Vegas residency with Toni Braxton, and said he’s happy and working.
Source: BET, Funny Knowing You Podcast
Watch the whole interview below on the Funny Knowing You podcast;