She’s been through some very difficult times in her life, but if you asked her, those times motivated her to become the comedian you love to watch today. As part of We Own The Laughs.com’s Comedian of the Day, have a few laughs and get to know comedian Jess Rizo. The Los Gatos, CA native shares with us some of her favorite moments in stand-up comedy and why she owns the laughs.
Name: Jess Rizo
Hometown: Los Gatos, CA (Currently resides in Los Angeles, CA)
Instagram/Twitter/Facebook/Snapchat/Tik-Tok: @JustJessRizo
Years in Comedy: 4
Haven’t we seen you somewhere before: I’ve appeared in over 10 national network commercials and print campaigns around the world, I’m currently slated for two upcoming feature films, a reality show, and my first half-hour comedy special.
Comedic Influences: Martin Lawrence is an amazing sketch comedian with amazing comedic timing. Dave Chapelle, is a phenomenal storyteller, which makes you think, coupled with his unapologetic humor.
Favorite Comedy Album: Don’t know if I have a favorite comedy album. I’m a storyteller, so I think that some of my favorite types of comedy albums are the ones where the comedian is just telling the audience one long incredible story. Bill Burr is a genius, Dave [Chappelle] is just well…the amazing DAVE, Jo Koy is brilliant, Jim Gaffigan is a riot, and Ali Wong has some great stuff too.
Favorite Comedy Movie: I’ve always loved creative genius types of comedy that no one sees coming such as Tropic Thunder, Girls Trip, or Bridesmaids.
Favorite Comedy TV Show: Martin
Favorite Comedic Character: Fire Marshall Bill from In Living Color and Hustle Man from Martin.
Favorite City to Perform In: My hometown San Jose, California. The San Jose Improv is historical and the area is nostalgic. Makes me proud to be where I come from.
Favorite Topics to Joke About: My everyday life.
Favorite Type of Audience for a Comedy Show: Fun, upbeat, and between the ages of 28-40.
Favorite Comedy Club: The Comedy Store! So many amazing comedians from around the world have performed there. I’ve been blessed enough to perform there several times. Space just screams stand-up comedy all of the time.
How did you discover your passion for comedy:
I’ve always had a unique story to tell. What better way to express true, adverse, and taboo topics with transparency than in a comedic way.
What do you remember most about your first time performing stand-up comedy:
I remember the rush of adrenaline that came over me behind the stage. Then nerves came on as soon as I hit the stage. About a minute into my set, the absolute joy of being on stage performing consumed me.
How would you describe your comedic style:
Storytelling
Describe your process for comedic writing:
It goes in waves. I will write down notes over the course of a week. Then I’ll find time to sit down and piece it all together.
Describe the comedy scene in your area:
The comedy scene in LA is great, but I also live part-time in Arizona, where they have a pretty good scene as well. Lots of amazing respected clubs that I’ve been building relationships with.
How do you judge success in the world of comedy:
The day I record my first half or hour special for a major network is the day I know I’m killing it. Then coupled with US road tours and press for the special to top it all off.
Who are some of your comedic peers that you enjoy watching perform or inspire you personally and professionally:
I have a great support system. No one person in particular.
What’s been your most memorable moment in comedy:
Probably performing in the original room at The Comedy Store and getting my spot bumped by Whitney Cummings. She’s pretty amazing on stage by the way.
What have you learned most from your failures in comedy:
To keep learning, keep growing, keep writing, keep reading, watching others, and hitting shows. Just to keep working. I DO WORK!
How do people react towards you when they realize that you can make people laugh:
They’re usually shocked. I’m not a super big personality during my day-to-day life, so they’re usually not convinced until they come to a show.
Describe what it’s been like building a career in stand-up comedy:
It’s been difficult at times, but overall exciting. I’ve heard many times “You don’t look like a comedian” and it can be frustrating, because what does a comedian look like or what is supposed to look like? I’ve had to fight through that stereotype this entire journey. What’s important in my journey, is to just keep doing the work, show, and prove past the negativity.
If you could change one thing in the world of comedy, what would it be:
More female comedians! Also the perception of what a comedian should act or look like. Show support for all sizes, shapes, personalities, and ethnicities in comedy.
Best advice you’ve ever received from a comedian:
To record all my sets from shows. Review over and over to perfect my work and material.
If you were releasing a comedy special this week, what would it be called:
Mexican Fraud.
Funniest encounter you’ve ever had with a celebrity:
I started my period on Eddie Murphy’s couch. It was horrific. I don’t think I’ll ever live that one down.
Weirdest place you’ve ever performed any forms of comedy:
I feel like Zoom comedy shows are odd to me, but it’s growing on me as we go through this pandemic.
A Jess Rizo Fun Fact:
They call me Squirrel. One day, I’ll have to elaborate on it.
Where would you like your laughs to take you:
Comedy specials and tours in both the US and overseas.
What would you tell a potential comedian if they ask you how they can own the laughs:
When all else fails…. work the room.
What are your thoughts on the future of comedy:
It’s hard to say, but, there are creative outlets being crafted daily for comedians to be able to continually express themselves and bring the funny.
If you could choose 1 comedy club and 3 comedians to perform with on your perfect comedy show, how would it go:
I would say the Comedy Store with Ali Wong, Bill Burr, and Dave Chappelle.
What’s next for you:
Well, I’m in the talks for a reality show and had a few conversations about being attached to a couple of movies. I’m just going to keep working and being creative.
Why should a person always laugh at life:
Because it’s the only life we get in this flesh and tomorrow isn’t promised, so why spend your days sad or upset?
Watch as Jess Rizo tell fans about her famous Eddie Murphy story in the video below:
Follow Jess’ comedy career on the following social media locations:
Instagram/Twitter/Tik-Tok: @JustJessRizo
Youtube: Jess Rizo
