The acclaimed comedian and actor discusses portraying Don King, discovering a long-lost sister, stepping into executive producing, working with Adam Sandler and the lessons behind his longevity in entertainment.
Comedian, actor, writer and producer Deon Cole joins Sway Calloway for an insightful and wide-ranging conversation on Sway’s Universe, now streaming on YouTube. With decades of success across stand-up, television and film, Cole opens up about entering another exciting chapter of his career while reflecting on the experiences that helped shape the entertainer he is today.
During the conversation, Cole discusses taking on the role of legendary boxing promoter Don King in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael. Known to millions for his unmistakable comedic voice, Cole explains how his background in observational comedy has helped prepare him to approach more intense dramatic roles, allowing him to find details in characters that extend beyond the surface.
Cole also dives into the latest chapter of his hit series Average Joe. After starring in the show’s acclaimed first season, Cole has expanded his involvement behind the scenes as an executive producer. He shares stories from filming the new season in South Africa, explains why he wanted greater creative involvement in the series and reflects on the responsibilities that come with having a larger voice in a production.
Beyond his latest projects, the interview offers a revealing look at Cole’s personal journey. He shares the remarkable story of discovering a long-lost sister later in life and discusses how the revelation affected his perspective on family and his own story.
The conversation also takes viewers behind the scenes of Cole’s years in Hollywood. He reflects on working alongside the Wayans family during the Scary Movie era, recalls his memorable—and occasionally tense—interactions with Lamorne Morris while filming Barbershop: The Next Cut, and offers a glimpse into what it’s like being part of Adam Sandler’s celebrated circle of collaborators.
Cole also recounts a memorable full-circle encounter with Jay-Z, illustrating just how far his journey has taken him from his earliest days pursuing comedy to becoming one of entertainment’s most versatile performers.
Throughout the interview, Cole speaks candidly about the principles that have sustained his career. Rather than focusing solely on fame or opportunity, he emphasizes faith, perseverance and hard work, offering advice to aspiring entertainers navigating an industry where success rarely happens overnight.
From his beginnings in Chicago stand-up to writing for The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien and Conan, starring as Charlie Telphy on black-ish and grown-ish, releasing acclaimed comedy specials and building an increasingly diverse film and television résumé, Cole has continually expanded the definition of what his career can become.
His appearance on Sway’s Universe captures an artist firmly in his professional stride while remaining reflective about the people, setbacks, surprises and opportunities that brought him to this point.
Deon Cole’s full interview on Sway’s Universe is streaming now on YouTube.
