Donnell Rawlings' Bio
Donnell Rawlings is a dynamic force in the comedy world, captivating audiences as a comedian, actor, and podcaster. Since the premiere of his Netflix special, "A New Day," in 2024, Donnell has solidified his status as a comedy heavyweight, earning accolades from fans and peers alike.
The special, produced by Dave Chappelle, is one of four Chappelle curated for Netflix. Speaking about Donnell, Chappelle shared, “I’ve been doing this a long time, and comedians like Donnell are not only friends but have inspired my own career. Anyone in the comedy community knows these names and knows their time to shine is long overdue. I am proud to be a part of this moment “
He's joined Dave Chappelle at Radio City Music Hall and has performed with him twice on SNL. His electrifying performances have included a standout appearance at the Netflix Is a Joke Festival, New York Comedy Festival and the Moon Tower Comedy Festival – he also continues to tour around the world alongside with comedy legends Chris Rock, Earthquake, and Dave Chappelle including the Los Angeles Forum and the Hollywood Bowl.
Off stage, Donnell is making waves as the host of "The Donnell Rawlings Show," a podcast recorded from his home in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The show, available on five major platforms, has amassed over 8 million views on YouTube, featuring an impressive lineup of guests such as Andrew Schulz, Teddy Swims, Steve O, Dr Umar, Tony Hinchcliffe, and Rapper T.I. Donnell's enormous following and sharp wit have made him a sought-after guest on major radio shows and podcasts including Club Shay Shay, Funny Marco, Something Burning, The Breakfast Club, DJ VLAD and The Joe Rogan Experience.
Donnell first shot to fame with his unforgettable portrayal of Ashy Larry on the iconic "Chappelle's Show," and he proved his versatility as an actor with his critically acclaimed role as Damien "Day-Day" Price on HBO's "The Wire." Fans also applauded his roles in STARZ's hit series "BMF," HBO's "Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" as the snarky Mr. Earl, -- it won the hearts of so many in Pixar’s blockbuster film "Soul," where he voiced Dez.
Donnell received the prestigious Redd Foxx Award from The African-American Humor Awards, a testament to his impact on comedy and culture. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Alexandria, VA, Donnell’s journey includes service in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in South Korea and at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
While his career continues to soar, Donnell’s most cherished role is being a father to his 9-year-old son, Austen. Whether on stage, on screen, or behind the mic, Donnell Rawlings brings his authentic, unapologetic voice to every endeavor, making him a true icon in comedy and entertainment.
The special, produced by Dave Chappelle, is one of four Chappelle curated for Netflix. Speaking about Donnell, Chappelle shared, “I’ve been doing this a long time, and comedians like Donnell are not only friends but have inspired my own career. Anyone in the comedy community knows these names and knows their time to shine is long overdue. I am proud to be a part of this moment “
He's joined Dave Chappelle at Radio City Music Hall and has performed with him twice on SNL. His electrifying performances have included a standout appearance at the Netflix Is a Joke Festival, New York Comedy Festival and the Moon Tower Comedy Festival – he also continues to tour around the world alongside with comedy legends Chris Rock, Earthquake, and Dave Chappelle including the Los Angeles Forum and the Hollywood Bowl.
Off stage, Donnell is making waves as the host of "The Donnell Rawlings Show," a podcast recorded from his home in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The show, available on five major platforms, has amassed over 8 million views on YouTube, featuring an impressive lineup of guests such as Andrew Schulz, Teddy Swims, Steve O, Dr Umar, Tony Hinchcliffe, and Rapper T.I. Donnell's enormous following and sharp wit have made him a sought-after guest on major radio shows and podcasts including Club Shay Shay, Funny Marco, Something Burning, The Breakfast Club, DJ VLAD and The Joe Rogan Experience.
Donnell first shot to fame with his unforgettable portrayal of Ashy Larry on the iconic "Chappelle's Show," and he proved his versatility as an actor with his critically acclaimed role as Damien "Day-Day" Price on HBO's "The Wire." Fans also applauded his roles in STARZ's hit series "BMF," HBO's "Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" as the snarky Mr. Earl, -- it won the hearts of so many in Pixar’s blockbuster film "Soul," where he voiced Dez.
Donnell received the prestigious Redd Foxx Award from The African-American Humor Awards, a testament to his impact on comedy and culture. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Alexandria, VA, Donnell’s journey includes service in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in South Korea and at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
While his career continues to soar, Donnell’s most cherished role is being a father to his 9-year-old son, Austen. Whether on stage, on screen, or behind the mic, Donnell Rawlings brings his authentic, unapologetic voice to every endeavor, making him a true icon in comedy and entertainment.