CHICAGO, Feb. 16, 2024 — Comedian Chris Fleming is set to make his first foray into HBO comedy specials with “Chris Fleming: Live at the Palace,” debuting February 27 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and streaming on Max. The special marks a significant step in Fleming’s career, bringing his unique brand of observational humor and physical comedy to a wider audience.
A Hilarious Deep Dive into the Everyday
Fleming’s new special promises an hour of laughter, blending relatable topics with unexpected twists.
- The special was recorded at the Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago.
- Fleming’s material ranges from everyday observations about Trader Joe’s and Oreos to broader commentary on masculinity and social norms.
- “Live at the Palace” incorporates both stand-up comedy, dancing, and even a song.
- Fleming previously released the hour-long specials “Showpig” on YouTube in 2018 and “Hell” on Peacock in 2023.
Taped before a live audience at the Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago, “Live at the Palace” showcases Fleming’s ability to find humor in the mundane. He navigates topics like trips to Trader Joe’s, the allure of Oreos, NPR programming, and the vast world of dog breeds. But Fleming doesn’t stop at simple observations; he also tackles more complex subjects, offering his perspectives on masculinity and the enduring appeal of conga lines.
What makes Chris Fleming’s comedy stand out? According to Fleming himself, “I hereby decree my first HBO special will soon be available for you to consume — please enjoy and feel free to dance along. Thank you and thank you HBO!!”
Nina Rosenstein, executive vice president of HBO’s late night and specials programming, praised Fleming’s distinctive style, stating, “Chris Fleming brings it full force to this special — once you’ve seen him, nothing else quite compares. His jokes are exquisitely precise, and his physical comedy is so borderline acrobatic that you discover something new to laugh at every time. Whether it’s a perfect impression of a crab walk or an intricate joke about Tillamook cheese, his work is a master class in and of itself.”
Behind the Scenes of “Live at the Palace”
“Live at the Palace” is the product of a collaborative effort. Fleming wrote and performed the special, and also serves as an executive producer alongside Alex Bach, Daniel Powell, Molly Mandel, Olivia Doud, Conan O’Brien, and Jeff Ross. Bill Benz directed the performance.
Fleming’s comedic journey includes being recognized as one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch.” He has also made appearances on television series such as “Abbott Elementary,” “Loot,” and “Corporate.”
With “Chris Fleming: Live at the Palace,” audiences can expect a unique and engaging comedy experience that blends sharp wit, physical humor, and a fresh perspective on the world around us.
