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Chris Rock is one of the most successful comedians that came out of the 1980s Saturday night Live era, starring in successful films and still traveling to connect with his fans on a more personal level.
Rock grew up in New York City and be began his career in 1985 at "Catch a Rising Star." He regularly performed in clubs, and eventually scored roles in films, with the help of mentor Eddie Murphy.
In the early 90s, Rock joined Saturday Night Live and became one of the "Bad Boys of SNL," which included Chris Farley, Adam Sandler, Rob Schneider and David Spade. He released his first album in 1991 and that same year he turned dramatic and won acclaim for his role as a crack addict in the film New Jack City.
Rock also spent some time with the sketch comedy show "In Living Color," geared towards the African American community. He eventually made his way back to stand-up, and in 1996 broke through with the comedy special "Bring the Pain." The show was very racially charged, and he then won a spot on Comedy Centrals "Politically Incorrect" board for the 1996 presidential elections.
In 1999 and 2004 he starred in two more HBO shows: "Bigger & Blacker" and "Never Scared," respectively. Rock also wrote a book, "Rock This!" and released the comedy albums "Roll with the New," "Bigger & Blacker" and "Never Scared."
The comedian really excelled in the film industry - he has starred in "Dogma," "Beverly Hills Ninja," "Lethal Weapon 4," "Down to Earth," "Head of State" and most recently "I Think I Love My Wife." He is also dominating television - he is the executive producer for "Everybody Hates Chris," the critically and commercially successful UPN television show.
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