Bobby Lee
Lee dabbled in various café and restaurant jobs before venturing into comedy. In 1994, his café gig ended abruptly, leading him to try his luck at The Comedy Store in San Diego. Starting as odd job staff, he took the stage during an amateur night, later scoring gigs opening for Pauly Shore and Carlos Mencia. Regularly performing at LA’s Comedy Store, owned by Pauly Shore’s mother, Mitzi, Lee’s parents initially opposed his comedy dreams. Yet, after an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, his father reconciled. Lee involved his family in his work, even pitching a family sitcom to Comedy Central in 2007. He also co-hosts the Bad Friends podcast since 2020 alongside Andrew Santino.
Bobby Lee – Comedian
Early Life and Comedy Beginnings
Robert Lee Jr., born on September 17, 1971, is an acclaimed American stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster. Before stepping into the spotlight, Lee navigated through various café and restaurant jobs. In 1994, fate took him to The Comedy Store in San Diego (also known as the La Jolla Comedy Store) after his coffee shop job abruptly ended.
Stepping onto the Comedy Stage
Lee’s venture into the comedy world began with odd jobs at The Comedy Store. Inspired, he took the stage during an amateur night, making his mark as a comedian. Within a year, his regular comedy performances caught the attention of industry veterans. Offers to open for Pauly Shore and Carlos Mencia soon followed.
Rising Amidst Family Skepticism
Despite Lee’s dedication, his parents initially hoped he would continue the family business and were apprehensive about his comedic path. During the early years of his stand-up career, he revealed that his parents barely communicated with him. However, his appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno proved to be a turning point. His father called, inquired about the cost of the appearance, and apologized for not backing his comedic dreams.
Fusing Family and Comedy
Lee creatively blended his family into his work. His younger brother made appearances on MADtv in non-speaking roles, and the entire family participated in a sketch on the show. He even pitched a sitcom idea to Comedy Central in 2007, envisioning a Korean family-centered show starring his own family.
Embracing Hosting and Podcasting
In 2013, Lee took center stage as the host of the 9th MusiCares MAP Fund Benefit Concert. His hosting prowess further exemplified his versatility. In 2020, he embarked on a new comedic journey as the co-host of the Bad Friends podcast alongside Andrew Santino. The podcast’s popularity skyrocketed, showcasing Lee’s innate talent for engaging conversation and hilarious banter.
From MADtv to the Silver Screen
From 2001 to 2009, Lee shone as a cast member on MADtv, a sketch comedy show that showcased his comedic brilliance. Beyond television, his filmography boasts roles in iconic films like Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004), Pineapple Express (2008), and The Dictator (2012). His recent appearance as Dr. Kang on FX on Hulu’s Reservation Dogs adds another feather to his comedic cap.
Podcasting and Collaborations
Lee’s voice extends beyond the stage and screen as he co-hosts the TigerBelly podcast alongside his ex-partner, Khalyla Kuhn. Their dynamic chemistry and candid conversations make for an entertaining podcast experience. Furthermore, Lee’s partnership with Andrew Santino birthed the Bad Friends podcast, cementing his position as a beloved podcaster.
