Chris Rock Explains Why He Prefers Stand-Up to Movies and Film

Chris Rock was the latest guest on Showtime's Desus and Mero.

On Sunday, Chris Rock sat down for a virtual interview with Showtime's Desus and Mero. The award-winning comedian and actor talked about the art of stand-up versus film, what rappers he's currently listening to, and much more. Stream the full 24-minute interview below.

Chris noted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, he hasn't been able to walk into comedy clubs and perform like he used to. The observation led to a discussion on his preferred medium: stand-up or film/television. "I used to just walk into the Comedy Cellar, the Comic Strip," he said, "and get on all the time. It wasn't a big deal to do 10 or 15 (minute sets) and try out new jokes on a weekly [basis]. I've gotta make Uber Eats guys laugh now."

As an Emmy and Grammy Award-winner, Rock says he prefers the instant feedback from trying new material. He reveals that he was recently offered a Zoom special, but turned it down because it wouldn't be the same.

"Musicians play music to an audience," he explained. "Comedians actually play the audience. The audience is our instrument. That's why I still tour," he continued. "People offer me residencies and all this stuff [but] I like to go. I like to go to Indiana, Mississippi. I like to be in these places and feel the people."

Rock also discussed his favorite memories of Madison Square Garden, why he calls Pootie Tang his Junior M.A.F.I.A. project, and more.