Chris D’Elia is best known for his work on the sitcom circuit—he starred in NBC’s “Whitney” and his new show, “Undateable,” was just renewed for a second season. But he identifies as a comedian first and foremost. He got his start doing standup in 2006 and has since been featured on Comedy Central and Showtime. After being named one of Variety magazine’s “10 comics to watch,” he released a one-hour standup special called “White Male, Black Comedian,” filmed at the New Orleans Civic Theatre.
His physical humor and honest observations on everything from rap music to British accents have won over fans. On Sept. 20, he’ll bring his newest comedy to the Lisner Auditorium stage for “Chris Delia: Under No Influence.” George Washington Today had a quick catch-up with the actor/ comedian just before he hits the road to launch his latest tour.
Q: What can people expect in “Under No Influence”? Did you take any new approaches with your material? What’s the story behind the name of the tour?
A: I'm still an idiot on stage, but I think this material has changed to a little more of a “guy in his 30s” vibe rather than “dude in his 20s.” The title of the tour is something my brother Matt came up with—he knows I don't drink or do drugs. But it also means “just me”…or whatever.
Q: You’re also getting ready for the second season of “Undateable,” which was renewed in July. What’s your relationship to acting versus standup? When do you find time to write comedy?
A: Standup is my life. Acting is a job. I love acting, but I can't wait to get off set to go on stage for the night. As for writing material, I just try and remember what I thought was funny that day and I start talking about that—I don’t really write, per se.
Q: Your dad, Bill D’Elia, has been nominated for eight Emmy Awards and directed your Comedy Central special. Is he doing anything for “Under No Influence”?
A: Yeah, my dad is going to direct my next special. I really like working with people I love and when he directed “White Male, Black Comedian,” it was awesome.
Q: Your former costar Whitney Cummings is from Georgetown. Did you learn anything about D.C. from her?
A: She tries to teach me everything, but I'm too dumb to listen.
Q: Will you be making any Vines GW students should look out for while you're here?
A: I don't really do Vine anymore, but no one is safe. Not even GW.
Tickets to see Chris D'Elia are available at here.