Anthony Jeselnik: The Dark Prince of Stand-Up Comedy
Anthony Jeselnik isn’t your typical stand-up comedian—he’s the guy who takes comedy to the darkest, sharpest, and most unexpected places.
Known for his biting one-liners and deadpan delivery, Jeselnik has mastered the art of making audiences laugh and gasp in shock all at once. If you’re looking for lighthearted humor, you might want to sit this one out.
Jeselnik’s comedy is all about pushing boundaries and testing limits, which is exactly what has made him one of the most distinct voices in stand-up today.
Growing up in Pittsburgh, Jeselnik never imagined a career in stand-up comedy. In fact, his original dream was to be a novelist. He graduated from Tulane University with a BA in English Literature, working jobs ranging from strip club doorman to teacher’s assistant to chef to make ends meet.
After moving to Los Angeles, Jeselnik initially tried breaking into the entertainment industry as a screenwriter, but his frustration with the process led him to explore stand-up—encouraged by family friend and former Tonight Show writer, Jimmy Brogan.
Inspired by dark comedy icons like Jack Handey, Michael O’Donoghue, and Steven Wright, Jeselnik’s brand of humor is sharp, edgy, and unapologetic.
His act revolves around an ultra-confident and arrogant persona, delivering jokes that often cut deep with their dark, unexpected punchlines.
What sets him apart from other comedians is his refusal to break character, staying deadpan as he delivers jokes that make audiences squirm, laugh, and reflect all at once.
Jeselnik’s big break came when he became the first stand-up to appear on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, where he also worked as a staff writer.
His wit has landed him appearances on other late-night shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and Last Call with Carson Daly. However, stand-up became his true calling, giving him creative freedom and complete control over his material.
In 2008, Variety named Jeselnik one of their “10 Comics to Watch,” and Comedy Central featured him on their “Hot List” of comedians the following year.
His first stand-up album, Shakespeare, was released in 2011, showcasing his signature dark humor to a wider audience. Recorded at New York City’s Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, the album solidified Jeselnik’s reputation as a master of the unexpected punchline.
Jeselnik’s comedy isn’t for the faint of heart, but that’s precisely what makes it so compelling. His ability to find humor in the darkest places has not only set him apart from other comedians but has also earned him a loyal fanbase who appreciate his fearless approach to stand-up.
With each joke, Jeselnik continues to prove that there’s no line he won’t cross—and that’s exactly why we keep coming back for more.
