Dave Chappelle is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer and producer who has redefined modern comedy through fearless honesty, sharp cultural commentary and unforgettable storytelling. Known for turning humor into thought-provoking art, he remains one of the most respected and influential comedic voices in the world. Here is Dave Chappelle’s complete Biography — Age, Height, Family, Career, Awards, Latest News, Social Media & Key Facts — all in one place.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: David Khari Webber Chappelle
- Date of Birth: August 24, 1973
- Age (2025): 52 years
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: Stand-up Comedian, Actor, Writer, Producer
- Years Active: Late 1980s — Present
- Famous For: Chappelle’s Show, iconic stand-up specials, cultural impact
Early Life & Education
Dave Chappelle grew up between Washington, D.C., Maryland and Ohio in a family of academics and activists who encouraged open discussion and critical thinking. His quick wit developed early, and stand-up quickly became his passion. He later graduated from Duke Ellington School of the Arts in D.C., specializing in theatre, before moving to New York City to start a full-time comedy career.
Physical & Personal Details
- Height: approx. 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Build: Lean-athletic
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair: Bald/close-shaved
- Marital Status: Married to Elaine Mendoza Erfe (since 2001)
- Children: Three (two sons, one daughter)
- Residence: Yellow Springs, Ohio, USA
Career Journey
Dave started performing stand-up in New York clubs as a teenager, quickly gaining attention for his fearless humor and unique perspective. Film roles in the 1990s boosted his visibility, but it was his revolutionary take on sketch comedy and live performance that would change his life — and comedy itself — forever.
Career Timeline
- 1990s: Breaks into TV and film, performing in major comedy clubs
- 2000: Releases first major stand-up special Killin’ Them Softly
- 2003–2006: Creates & stars in Chappelle’s Show, earning massive global success
- Mid-2000s: Walks away from Hollywood to protect mental health and creative freedom
- 2016–2021: Historic deal with Netflix leads to multiple award-winning specials
- 2023–2025: Continues touring internationally with new sold-out shows
Major Projects & Highlights
- Chappelle’s Show — Landmark sketch series mixing humor, music and social truth
- Netflix Specials — including Sticks & Stones, The Closer, Equanimity, The Dreamer and more
- Films — Blue Streak, Half Baked, Con Air, A Star Is Born, and others
- SNL Hosting — Monologues often become cultural talking points
Awards & Recognition
- Grammy Awards: Multiple wins for Best Comedy Album
- Primetime Emmy Awards: Recognized for specials & SNL hosting
- Mark Twain Prize for American Humor: Awarded in 2019 — one of comedy’s highest honors
- Listed among the greatest stand-up comedians of all time by leading critics and audiences
Influence & Public Debate
Chappelle’s comedy opens conversations on race, power, identity and the contradictions of modern society. Some praise his brutal honesty while others challenge certain views — but his stand-up consistently pushes culture to confront uncomfortable truths. His voice never goes unnoticed.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @davechappelle — Verified; used for tour promotions and updates
- X (Twitter): @DaveChappelle — Verified but rarely active
- Approach: Keeps most of his voice on stage, not online
Latest Updates (2025)
- On major world tour with new material — most shows require phone-lock pouches
- The Dreamer special earned another Grammy win
- Recent SNL appearance triggered nationwide discussion
- Actively developing future stand-up specials and film collaborations
- Still one of the biggest live comedy draws today
Interesting Facts
- Chose personal peace over a huge TV deal to preserve his creativity
- Lives quietly in Ohio, far from big-city celebrity culture
- Widely respected for elevating stand-up into social storytelling
- Influences nearly every new generation of comedians
- His shows sell out in minutes, everywhere in the world
FAQs
How old is Dave Chappelle?
52 years old (as of 2025)
Where does he live?
Yellow Springs, Ohio
Is Dave Chappelle still performing?
Yes — he tours constantly with new shows
What is he best known for?
Chappelle’s Show and award-winning stand-up specials
