Def Comedy Jam Is Coming Back & Soon

Twenty-five years ago Russell Simmons’ Def Comedy Jam became a leading platform for standup comedy. Bernie Mac, Mike Epps, Chris Tucker and Dave Chappelle used the HBO series to build audiences, and take crucial steps to Hollywood careers. Martin Lawrence and D.L. Hughley were among show hosts during its original run through 1997.

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After a brief reprise in 2006, Rush has brought back Def Comedy once more. This time, the Def Jam Records co-founder and 35-year Hip-Hop and fashion mogul will re-brand the series as All Def Comedy, named similarly to his All Def Digital site. Again, Simmons will use HBO to broadcast his standup platform. Tony Rock is slated to host the re-boot planned for December of this year.

“I have witnessed firsthand how the most cutting-edge, seemingly alternative comics become the driving forces in mainstream comedy,” Rush said in a press release. “I’m thankful to HBO for allowing me to give these new voices access to mainstream audiences everywhere.”

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Similarly, XXL reports that the Hollis, Queens native is also working to bring back Def Poetry Jam, a spinoff that ran from 2002 to 2007. That program featured some Hip-Hop acts.