Introduction to Chris Rock

Book excerpt: Chris Rock is a comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director. He was born on February 7, 1965, in Andrews, South Carolina. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and attended James Madison High School before dropping out and pursuing a career in comedy. Rock first gained widespread recognition in the early 1990s as a cast member on Saturday Night Live. He went on to star in several successful comedy specials for HBO, such as Bring the Pain and Bigger & Blacker. He has also acted in a number of films, including Dogma, Madagascar, and Grown Ups. Rock is known for his irreverent humor, which often addresses race, politics, and relationships. His awards include four Primetime Emmy Awards, three Grammy Awards, and several NAACP Image Awards.