Q&A: Comedian JB Smoove talks Detroit and his upcoming show
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J. B. Smoove attends the 2024 Boys & Girls Clubs of America Gala at Coca-Cola Roxy on September 18, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo: Derek White/Getty Images
Detroit will be treated this weekend to the comedic genius of JB Smoove, a beloved actor, writer and stand-up comedian who's been a staple in the comedy world for over three decades.
The big picture: In anticipation of his Sunday appearance at Soundboard Motor City Casino, Axios talked to Smoove about his love for the city, his comedy journey and what keeps him going after three decades in the game.
- Known for roles on shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm and his work on stage, J.B. is no stranger to cities like Detroit, which he calls "a city on the rise."
Below is an excerpt from the conversation, edited and condensed for clarity.
You've got a long history with Detroit. What makes it unique for you?
"Man, I love Detroit! I've been doing this for over 30 years, and Detroit has always shown me love. Back in the day, during Def Comedy Jam and BET, I met a lot of great comedians from Detroit — Foolish, Coco.
- It's always been a city that's embraced me. I used to hang at places like Floods, enjoy some music, food, and good vibes."
Detroit's going through a resurgence right now. Do you feel that energy when you're there?
"Oh, definitely. It's a great time to be in Detroit. The city's making a comeback in a big way, and I feel that every time I'm there.
- From the Lions doing their thing to all the cool stuff happening in the city— it's like watching a city on the rise, and that's inspiring."
Detroit is known for its resilience. What do you take away from performing in a city like this?
"Detroit is a hardworking city. No matter how many times people try to hold it down, Detroit always pushes back.
- That's why I admire the people there so much."
You've had a diverse career, from TV to movies to stand-up. What's the difference between performing live and working in film or TV?
"With stand-up, you get that immediate reaction. In TV and film, you might not see your work for months, sometimes even a year.
- But with stand-up, you're in the moment with the audience. It's therapeutic for both them and me."
Your style is so unique — painting pictures on stage and acting things out. Has your approach changed over the years?
"My approach has been the same from day one. I see something, I act it out, and I bring it to life on stage. I always leave the back door open, though — meaning I let the audience guide me.
- It's like a cookout, man — you bring the jokes, people take what they want home."
You're known for being everywhere — TV, movies, stand-up, voice work. How do you manage to do it all?
"It's all intentional. I've always told myself I wouldn't just do one thing. Stand-up is an extension of everything I do, but I also love TV, film, producing, writing and voice work.
- Everything has its own window, and I make sure each pocket gets its time and attention."