Michael Ian Black

Michael Ian Black is a comedian, actor, writer, and director whose career spans television, film, stand-up comedy, podcasting, and publishing. Black began his career with The State, a sketch comedy group he co-founded while attending New York University, which gained national attention with its MTV series known for absurdist humor. His work in sketch comedy includes "The State," "Viva Variety," "Stella," and "Michael and Michael Have Issues," all of which he co-created, wrote, and starred in. Stella, as a comedy troupe, performed to sold-out shows across the United States and developed a cult following.

Black starred in TV Land's "The Jim Gaffigan Show" and Comedy Central's "Another Period," and reprised a film role in Netflix's "Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later" and "Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp." He played Phil Stubbs on NBC's Ed for four years and has appeared in films including "This Is 40," "Sextuplets," "The Baxter," and "Linoleum." Black has written several screenplays, including "Wedding Daze," which he directed, and "Run, Fat Boy, Run."

His stand-up comedy specials include "Noted Expert" on Epix, as well as "Very Famous" and "I Am a Wonderful Man." Black's podcasts include "Mike & Tom Eat Snacks" with Tom Cavanagh, "Topics" with Michael Showalter, "How to Be Amazing," and "Obscure." He is also recognized as a frequent commentator on VH1's "I Love the..." series.

As an author, Black has written several children's books, including "I'm Bored," "I'm Sad," and "I'm Worried," as well as the parody "A Child's First Book of Trump." His adult memoirs include "You're Not Doing It Right" and "Navel Gazing," along with the essay collection "My Custom Van." His book "A Better Man" addresses masculinity and emotional vulnerability, written as a letter to his college-bound son. In the book, Black examines his relationship with his own father, explores the impact of societal expectations on boys, and discusses ways to foster healthy masculinity. Black's work in comedy, television, film, and publishing has contributed to ongoing conversations about culture, gender, and emotional well-being.