Chappelle's Show Review: Sketch Comedy With Bite


Chappelle's Show (2003)

8.5/10 — Chappelle's Show (2003)

Pros

  • Fearless satire
  • Classic sketches
  • Chappelle's charisma

Cons

  • Short run
  • Some sketches dated

Dave Chappelle’s sketch series features recurring segments like ‘Charlie Murphy’s True Hollywood Stories’ and ‘Rick James’, and satirical sketches about race. Chappelle left the show during its third season.

What works

The sketches are bold and inventive, and Chappelle’s commentary on race in America is often brilliant. The Charlie Murphy stories became pop-culture classics.

Where it falters

There are only two full seasons, and some sketches have dated or may offend.

Verdict

A sharp, brave comedy that’s still hugely quotable.