Biography
Who is Joey Diaz?
Joey Diaz, born José Antonio Diaz on February 19, 1963, is a Cuban-American stand-up comedian, actor, podcaster, and author. He embarked on his comedy career in 1991 and moved to Los Angeles in 1995 to pursue acting. Diaz is known for his roles in "My Name Is Earl," "The Longest Yard," "Spider-Man 2," and his recent appearance in "The Many Saints of Newark".
How did Joey Diaz start in comedy?
Diaz's comedy journey began in earnest after seeing the film "Punchline" in 1988. He enrolled in a $37 stand-up comedy course and first performed in 1991 at Comedy Works in Denver. His early comedy was marked by a disaster set while on cocaine, which led him to stop using the substance before performances. Diaz's breakthrough came when he won a comedy competition after the original winner was caught stealing jokes.
Where did Joey Diaz grow up?
Diaz was born in Havana, Cuba, and immigrated to the United States at a young age, growing up in North Bergen, New Jersey. His mother ran a bar and a numbers game operation, and Diaz faced significant challenges during his youth, including the death of his parents and a turbulent adolescence marked by drug use and crime. He credits his peers' sense of humor and Richard Pryor's comedy albums for influencing his comedy career.
Is Joey Diaz currently on tour or where does he perform?
As of 2024, Joey Diaz is touring across various cities in the United States. Known for his raw and unfiltered comedic style, Diaz's shows are characterized by relatable humor and storytelling. His 2024 tour is highly anticipated, offering a mix of personal experiences and societal observations.
Does Joey Diaz host any podcasts?
Diaz has been a prominent figure in podcasting. He co-hosted "Beauty and Da Beast" from 2010 to 2012 and launched "The Church of What's Happening Now" in 2012. In 2020, he started a new series, "Uncle Joey's Joint," after moving back to New Jersey from California.
Did Joey Diaz release any recent Comedy Specials?
In 2012, Diaz released the stand-up special "It's Either You or the Priest," which topped the Billboard comedy charts in the UK and Canada, as well as iTunes. This special supported his documentary "Where I Got My Balls From."