Chris Tucker: Picking Up Where He Left Off
August 2012
By Daedrian McNaughton | Premier Guide Miami
Clad in bright orange iridescent attire, Chris Tucker took the stage at the Fillmore to an enthusiastic crowd that seemed to have waited an eternity for his return. Dapper, clean, and a bit meatier than we’re used to seeing, he soaked up the applause with a look that echoed, “Guess who’s back?”
After achieving monumental success with the Rush Hour franchise alongside Jackie Chan, Tucker had stepped away from the spotlight amid reports of tax issues. Last night, however, he resurfaced with a quip on his past misfortunes, sharing that honesty would help bridge the gap between him and his audience. A nod to fellow actor Wesley Snipes, currently serving time for tax evasion, had the crowd roaring. “That’s the last time I let Wesley Snipes help me out with my taxes,” he joked, setting a lighthearted tone for the evening.
His absence from the comedy scene seemed to benefit him creatively, as Tucker’s Guess Who Is Back routine was packed with enough material to fuel a double tour—a strategy that might just help him chip away at his tax debt. With candor and humor, he delved into his dysfunctional childhood, family dynamics, and even touched on topics like the Obamas, church, and the IRS. A particularly nostalgic segment recounted stories from Rush Hour, showcasing the comedian’s ability to weave personal anecdotes into his routine while retaining his signature antics and hilarious facial expressions.
A notable highlight of the evening was Tucker’s heartfelt tribute to his late friend, Michael Jackson. Channeling the King of Pop, he performed a touching rendition of “Human Nature,” evoking laughter and a bittersweet nostalgia. While the performance was endearing, a friendly suggestion would be for Tucker to stick to comedy—his strength undeniably lies in his stand-up.
With a high-energy comedic style, Tucker has returned to his roots, showcasing maturity that contrasts with his unpredictable antics from the days of Def Comedy Jam and Friday. The growth was apparent; he featured thoughtful storytelling along with the punchlines.
In the end, Chris Tucker reminded us why we missed him. His ability to pick up where he left off speaks to the resilience of a seasoned performer. With laughter, relatability, and undeniable charm, he not only reintroduced himself to the audience but reaffirmed his place in the comedy world. Welcome back, Chris Tucker.