Filmed Pre-Pandemic, Lewis Black’s New Stand-Up Special Gets Released

Lewis Blacks new special “Thanks for Risking Your Life” was released on Tuesday.

Courtesy of / Lewis Black

In January, comedian Lewis Black embarked on the “It Gets Better Every Day” tour. He had plans to film the comedy special as the tour ended. After 22 live shows, the U.S. government declared a state of emergency in response to the mounting pandemic. Faced with canceling the rest of his tour, Black took to the stage one last time ahead of lockdowns across the country. That performance was recorded in New Buffalo, Michigan, and was renamed, “Thanks For Risking Your Life.”

“City Lights” host Lois Reitzes spoke with Black ahead of the release of his new special, which will be out Tuesday and can be streamed online.

Known as the king of the rant, Black has made a career out of being enraged and animated.

“I’ve said time and time again, if I acted like that all the time, I would be dead within 36 hours. It’s partly the character, but I’m funniest when I’m angry,” he said. “I do get that angry. Certain things will set me off. If I see something completely insane, I will respond. I will respond to the insane person, as an insane person.”

Viewer discretion advised. The special contains adult content and language.