Comedian, actor, and writer—these are just a few of the hats that Carmichael wears in his ever-evolving career. Carmichael first made waves with his self-titled series, The Carmichael Show, which showcased his sharp wit and socially conscious humor. Fans also know him well for voicing one of the lead characters in the animated comedy Lucas Bros Moving Co., where Carmichael brought both charm and hilarity to the screen. In 2022, Carmichael really stepped into the spotlight with his deeply personal and acclaimed comedy special Rothaniel, earning widespread praise from critics and audiences alike.
Before all the acclaim, though, Carmichael was just starting out. His journey began in earnest when he took the stage for his first comedy performance in Los Angeles—an open mic night at the legendary Comedy Store, a moment that would mark the beginning of something big. Born to parents Cynthia and Joe Carmichael, Carmichael grew up alongside his brother, Joe Jr., forming close family bonds that would later influence his storytelling. Then, in 2008, Carmichael made a pivotal move—relocating to Los Angeles to fully pursue his dreams. And as we now know, that leap of faith paid off in a major way.
Back in 2014, he dropped his stand-up special Jerrod Carmichael: Love at the Store on HBO, which, by the way, turned out to be his very first televised performance. Yeah, it was a big moment—really put him on the map. Jerrod Carmichael had been grinding for years, but this was the first time audiences across the country got to see what he could do on such a major platform. And honestly, Jerrod Carmichael nailed it. The special showcased his sharp wit and fearless takes, all delivered with that signature calm intensity. Looking back, it’s clear that Jerrod Carmichael made a strong first impression, setting the stage for everything that came after.