The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Wanda Sykes Talks 'Undercard,' Comedy Career; Chris Rock; Oscars Slap, Mike Epps + More
Mar 30, 2026
Wanda Sykes, veteran stand-up comedian, actress, and writer known for sharp social commentary, chats about moving from the NSA to stand-up and writing for Chris Rock. She describes taking on dramatic work in Undercard, boxing training for the role, navigating edgy comedy and boundaries, and balancing activism with family and faith.
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How Wanda Found Comedy
- Wanda discovered comedy after winning a radio talent audition and feeling instantly at home on stage.
- She left a secure NSA job and pursued jokes because yearbook notes and that stage moment made her realize her true path.
Leadership Lets Comedy Rooms Flourish
- Writing rooms thrive when leaders let creators be themselves, producing quirky, diverse bits.
- Wanda praised Chris Rock as a manager who assembled top talent and allowed individual voices to shape sketches.
Do Comedy For Your Audience Not The Masses
- Do your honest comedy even if it narrows your audience; authenticity matters more than mass appeal.
- Wanda says aiming for arenas forces compromises, so speak to the audience you genuinely connect with.