Patrice O'Neal
Patrice O'Neal
Full Name and Common Aliases
Patrice Malcolm O'Neal was a comedian, actor, and radio personality who went by the stage name "Big Pat." He is widely recognized for his raw humor, unapologetic style, and distinctive voice.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on August 7, 1969, in New York City, Patrice O'Neal passed away on November 29, 2011, at the age of 42 due to complications from a heart attack while being treated for an asthma-related emergency.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Patrice O'Neal was an American comedian, actor, radio personality, and podcaster. He gained fame through his stand-up comedy routines, acting roles in film and television, and regular appearances on various radio shows.
Early Life
Growing up in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood, Patrice O'Neal developed a tough exterior, which he often referenced in his humor. His mother, Maryann, was an African American woman who raised him as a single parent after his father abandoned the family when Patrice was young. O'Neal has spoken publicly about the difficulties of growing up poor and black in Boston during the 1970s and '80s.
Major Accomplishments
Patrice O'Neal's career spanned over two decades, with numerous accomplishments that showcased his talent and versatility as a performer:
As a stand-up comedian, he performed at various comedy clubs throughout the United States and appeared on several television shows, including The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Comedy Central's Premium Blend.
He acted in several films and television shows, such as The Office, Yes Man, and G-Force.
As a radio personality, Patrice hosted his own show on WRKO (AM 680) in Boston, where he tackled topics ranging from social issues to pop culture.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Patrice O'Neal's most notable works include:
His stand-up comedy special Fired Up! (2009), which showcased his raw and unapologetic style.
His appearance on Dancing with the Stars in 2010, where he paired with professional dancer Nicole Scherzinger to raise awareness for cancer research.
His work as a cast member on The Howard Stern Show, where he frequently contributed to discussions on various topics.
Impact and Legacy
Patrice O'Neal's impact on the entertainment industry extends beyond his own performances:
He paved the way for other comedians of color, inspiring a new generation of humorists.
His unapologetic style influenced many stand-up comedians, who continue to push boundaries in their craft.
Patrice O'Neal's philanthropic efforts raised awareness and funds for various causes, including cancer research and social justice initiatives.Why He Is Widely Quoted or Remembered
Patrice O'Neal is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Unapologetic humor that tackled tough topics with raw honesty.
Unique voice and perspective, which added depth to the entertainment industry.
Contributions to social justice causes and cancer research, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
Quotes by Patrice O'Neal
I've still got that little freedom part of me that wants to have a car that looks really sexy.
Just making the crowd laugh is not really doing things for me anymore. That’s just knowing how to kill; I’ve learned how to kill – but also learned when a crowd’s laughter is meaningful.
Who has connections to Connecticut? That’s where rich people go to live the rest of their life in the woods.
I’m a decent cook, and I will try to cook anything. My only weakness is that I don’t know servings – I only know how to make a lot.
I don’t go to any sexy places to eat where they give you half a lamb chop and one bean. I like going, ‘Uhhh, I’m done’ when I eat.
I’m a slave to the culture, so I see an Audi, a Denali, or an Escalade, my neighbor got the four-door Porsche. I have a really nice truck. But it’s a Durango and I like frontin’! I like to ride by and show off.
I’m a big buffet dude, or I’m a big cheap-food-and-order-more-when-I-need-it dude.
I’m a thigh-meat dude. Thigh is just the best meat – I don’t get chicken breast. I think it’s a publicity stunt that we’ve convinced people it’s delicious.
I need a little bass and I don’t even need that crazy bass to break your face. I just want it to sound good when I have my favorite song.