Michael Che

Michael Che is a stand-up comedian, actor, and writer recognized for his social commentary and deadpan comedic style. Che's material frequently addresses topics such as racism and inequality, delivered with a candid and incisive approach. The New York Times has described his stage presence as reflective and laid-back, with jokes influenced by his city upbringing and insightful observations.

Che began performing stand-up comedy in New York City, regularly working multiple sets per night. He won New York's Funniest Stand-Up competition at the New York Comedy Festival and was named one of Variety's "10 Comics to Watch" and Rolling Stone's "The 50 Funniest People." Che joined Saturday Night Live as a writer, first as a guest writer and then as a staff writer. He also contributed to "The Daily Show" with a satirical segment titled "Race/Off: Live From Somewhere," which addressed the Ferguson protests and explored issues of racial profiling.

Che is best known for his work on the NBC sketch comedy series "Saturday Night Live," where he serves as co-anchor on "Weekend Update" alongside Colin Jost. Che is the first African-American co-anchor in the history of "Weekend Update." Che and Jost also served as co-head writers at Saturday Night Live. One of their recurring segments involves writing jokes for each other to deliver live on air, often resulting in comedic exchanges that highlight cultural and social issues. Che was included in Time's 100 Most Influential People.

In addition to his work on "Saturday Night Live," Che has released two Netflix stand-up specials: "Michael Che Matters" and "Michael Che: Shame the Devil." He created and starred in the HBO Max sketch comedy series "That Damn Michael Che," which explores societal topics such as racial profiling and unemployment through comedy. Che and Jost co-hosted the Primetime Emmy Awards. Che has received multiple Writers Guild of America Award nominations, winning for Comedy/Variety Sketch Series for "Saturday Night Live." He has also shared several Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series with the "Saturday Night Live" writing team.