Tommy Davidson‘s quirky personality and spot-on celebrity impersonations have made him one of our generation’s most celebrated comedic talents. The Washington, D.C. native lends his voice to Adult Swim’s “Black Dynamite,” the extension of the 2009 film of the same name. Davidson’s character Cream Corn is the high-pitched side kick to former CIA agent Black Dynamite (Michael Jai White).
Having starred on groundbreaking shows like “In Living Color” and “The Proud Family,” and taken on rib-tickling roles in “Booty Call” and “Juwanna Mann,” it’s clear Davidson’s contagious energy distinguish him from his peers. A staple in Hollywood, with an enviable career spanning over 25 years, Davidson continues capturing audiences with his crossover appeal. He’s successfully withstood the test of time, breaking barriers and setting the bar for emerging comics, yet it seems as if he’s just getting started.
Find out what to expect for the second season of the Blaxploitation comedy-spoof “Black Dynamite,” Davidson’s secret to longevity and his favorite comedians of today.
UPTOWN: What can fans expect from the second season of “Black Dynamite”?
Tommy Davidson: Expect the unexpected. The first episode of the season was based on “12 Years a Slave” but the slaves are white. We’re flipping the script.
U: Is there an Ebola storyline in the works or is it too soon?
TD: Oh no, we did the cartoon before the Ebola breakout. But I’m on tour with the African comedian Michael Blackson, and he has Ebola, so you may want to call him.
U: What’s it like working with the cast, Michael Jai White, Kym Whitley, Byron Minns?
TD: They’re all friends of mine. It’s great to work with your friends just like “In Living Color.” We all get along, we all finish each other’s sentences, we’re good to go.
U: Who are your favorite comedians today?
TD: Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, Tony Rock, all the Wayans brothers, and me!
U: Are you still performing stand-up?
TD: All over the country. I’m coming to Chicago from November 20-23 at the Improv in Schaumburg.
U: Which of your iconic roles would you want to reprise?
TD: Bunz from Booty Call.
U: What is the secret to longevity in Hollywood?
TD: Never take no for an answer. When you fall down, always get up. Never let them see you sweat, and have fun!
U: What’s the biggest misconception about you?
TD: That I’m a very, very smart film producer.
U: Who’s on the guest list of your ideal dinner party?
TD: Bill Gates, Fidel Castro, Richard Branson, Tom Brady, George Lucas, Russell Wilson, and Julius Irving.
U: What’s on your bucket list?
TD: To walk on the Great Wall of China and to see the pyramids of Nubia and the Kilimanjaro mountains. To win an Oscar and secure airspace around Africa.
U: How did you get cast on “In Living Color”?
TD: Keenan Ivory Wayans saw me perform and was convinced I would be great for the show.