Your latest comedy obsession is on deck. The new Comedy Central series Why? With Hannibal Buress premieres on July 8, giving a rapidly rising writer, stand-up comedian, and actor a starring gig. Hannibal Buress has been making his name in the industry, popping up all over in critically acclaimed movies, TV shows, and — on one very special day — the Justin Bieber roast. Seriously, Hannibal Buress has been in tons of movies and shows you need to see — not just Broad City. The first time I saw Buress in action was when he opened for Conan O'Brien on the infamous Legally Prohibited From Being Funny On Television Tour back in 2010. I was instantly hooked on his unhurried drawl and clever observations. And, from that day on, he seemed to be everywhere.
Buress caught his big break as a Saturday Night Live writer in 2009, and has proven himself to be funny in all manner of situations. And that's good news, since Why? sounds like a mash-up of all the most popular Comedy Central formats. According to the network synopsis, "each episode tackles topical issues with sketches, man-on-the-street interviews, and special guests, as well as stand-up in front of a studio audience." Intrigued, but unfamiliar with your host? Get to know Hannibal Buress by taking a look at these past roles.
1. 30 Rock
As one of Tina Fey's staff of writers, Buress showed up in a handful of different personas on 30 Rock. My personal favorite is this one, a homeless guy who prefers a "sexy baby" to Liz Lemon. I miss this show so much it hurts.
2. The Eric Andre Show
Buress usually sat sidekick to Eric Andre on his Adult Swim talk show parody. But, in this episode, he took over hosting duties to somewhat disastrous effect.
3. Neighbors
Everyone in the fraternity comedy Neighbors needed an adult, or several. Instead, they got Officer Watkins, who had the thankless job of mediating the feud between Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne's young family and the co-ed ragers next door.
4. Chozen
If you managed to catch Chozen while it aired, congratulations. The animated FX series only survived one season, despite being helmed by the people who brought you Archer and Eastbound and Down. It even featured voice acting by Bobby Moynihan, Ike Barinholtz, Kathryn Hahn, Danny McBride, and Method Man. Buress played Crisco, a struggling rapper/gigolo/children's entertainer, because that's apparently a thing.
5. Lucas Bros Moving Co.
Twin comics Kenny and Keith Lucas star in this FXX animated series and brilliantly cast Hannibal Buress as their long-suffering mom. It works, and surprisingly well.
6. Broad City
Although he's done so much more, I still have to say my favorite Buress role to date is Lincoln Rice, Ilana's maybe-boyfriend, maybe-friend-with-benefits on the genius Broad City. Dentist, dog-lover, cake baker, and amateur comedian, Lincoln is always there for Ilana and her best friend/life partner Abbi, even though Ilana doesn't seem to realize how great she's got it.
So, yeah, pretty decent resume. With this many projects in the bag, Why? With Hannibal Buress should be a massive comic success.
Images: Getty Images; Giphy
