Kid Cudi steps into stand-up comedy with first live set

Kid Cudi hits the mic, and it’s not a rap!
Sziget Festival 2025
Sziget Festival 2025 | Didier Messens/GettyImages

Kid Cudi has officially stepped into the world of stand-up comedy. The rapper shared his first-ever standup set on Instagram, expressing both nerves and excitement about performing live comedy.

Cudi posted, “Sooo this happened!!! Did stand up last night for the first time and holy f*** it was ELECTRIC!!! Hearing people laughing their asses off and enjoying my set really touched my heart man...I was maaaaad nervous, this was another type of nervousness I hadn't felt before.”

The performance took place at Mi’s Westside Comedy Theater in Santa Monica on Friday, January 9, where Kid Cudi joined a lineup of other comedians for the evening. This marks another artistic step for the Man on the Moon rapper, expanding his creative footprint beyond music and film.

For Cudi, the reaction of the audience was both thrilling and validating. “The high I felt when I got off stage, never felt that before either,” he wrote. Fans and friends alike cheered him on, making the night a memorable milestone for the multi-talented artist.

Cudi thanks friends and fellow comics for their support

Cudi made sure to publicly recognize those who helped make his comedy debut a success. He thanked his Happy Gilmore 2 castmate Joseph Vecsey, a comedian and writer, for organizing the gig and helping him prepare his set. Vecsey later commented on social media, saying that Cudi “killed it” during the performance.

In his Instagram post, Cudi also thanked friends who attended the show, as well as the other comics on the bill who supported him throughout the night. His gratitude highlights the sense of community and encouragement that many artists rely on when trying new forms of expression.

Rappers expanding into comedy

Cudi joins a growing list of hip-hop artists exploring stand-up. T.I., for example, has spent years performing comedy, including recent sets for the Cheaper Than Therapy special. While results can vary, these ventures show a willingness among rappers to challenge themselves and connect with audiences in new ways.

Cudi’s successful debut proves that blending music, humor, and personal storytelling resonates with fans. Clips of his performance are expected to be shared online, giving fans a chance to experience his comedic side even if they couldn’t attend the show.

With this first comedy set behind him, Cudi is likely to continue exploring stand-up while maintaining his musical career. The night at Mi’s Westside Comedy Theater reflects his versatility as an artist and his courage in stepping into new creative territory.

As fans digest this new side of Cudi, the rapper’s comedy debut serves as a reminder that artists can reinvent themselves in exciting ways. The positive reception suggests that stand-up might just become another platform for Kid Cudi’s unique voice in hip-hop and entertainment.

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