While he’s not a class clown, Arnold says two things make him a comedian. Not only was he “naturally funny,” but he vividly recalls discovering the power of stand-up comedy. The latter takes place in the ’80s, courtesy of Eddie Murphy’s legendary Delirious special.
“My aunt and mom were in the basement watching it,” Arnold said.
“I remember them laughing and screaming. I was more intrigued by the fact that this guy made all the people I see who were yelling all the time laugh hysterically. I noticed. He only told funny stories. It gave me the impression that someone could stand somewhere and tell a story and make people laugh.”
While it may have taken decades, Arnold eventually broke into comedy not only as a traveling comedian, but as a working TV writer (Meet the Browns, The Ricky Smiley Show, Tyler Perry’s Penn House) food chain. and “The Tony Rock Project”).
Most recently, in addition to creating and presenting his new show That Girl Lay Lay, which will air on Nickelodeon, he also produced the Netflix hit Fuller House. The latter project actually brought him into close contact with the recently deceased actor and comedian Bob Saget.
“It was devastating and shocking for everyone,” Arnold said. “Bob is a great guy. He loves his acting. He loves everyone he works with. It’s easy to see that he loves his TV family and the whole estate.
“Bob and I were always on set talking about stand-up comedy. We both kept performing together at the Comedy Store. Losing him like that was shocking, but I’m glad I had the opportunity to work with him.”
Known for his quirky take on family, marriage and life, Arnold is returning to Northeast Ohio this weekend for his next Netflix comedy special, Not for the Underdog. Recordings take place at 7:00pm and 9:30pm. January 29 at the Hannah Theater in Playhouse Square.
“This will be my second Netflix special filming in Cleveland,” Arnold said. “The reason I’m doing it there is because it’s my hometown. I want to bring Netflix and Hollywood to my city, and that’s what motivates me to stick to this course and chase my dreams.”
