Michael Ian Black has definitely made his mark by acting on television over the years. From the State to Ed to Stella and his appearances on VH1's I Love... series, the man has become a cult hero for many of us who wonder why he hasn't quite become as much of a household name as we expected he'd be by now. It's through no lack of desire or hard work.
Black has recently expanded his horizons by getting into directing and stand up comedy and, most recently, an author, with his new book My Custom Van: And 50 Other Mind-Blowing Essays That Will Blow Your Mind All Over Your Face destined to be one of the best titled books of all time. It's bound to be another instant classic for Black as well, with praise from the likes of Dave Eggers, Stephen Colbert, Lewis Black, Amy Sedaris, John Hodgman, and Jim Gaffigan helping set the tone for what is one of the most anticipated literary releases in the history of the universe.
Here, the artist candidly discusses the many facets of his career with expected hilarity and even some surprising sincerity here and there. Enjoy the interview and pre-order the book now by heading over to Amazon.com or just click that link above. Thanks.
(You can catch Michael next week on VH1's I Love the New Millennium Monday-Thursday June 23rd-26th.)
You have a new book called My Custom Van: And 50 Other Mind-Blowing Essays that Will Blow Your Mind All Over Your Face. Why is it the best book ever written? Was it influenced or inspired by any of your favorite writers and would JFK have been a fan?
I can't say it's the best book ever written, but I think it's probably the best book written this decade. Or, at the very least, it's the best book I've written this decade. It was inspired by my desire to write a book. The best book ever written is that one about the guy who overcomes a bunch of obstacles, some of which metaphorically represent something else, and emerges bloodied but unbowed - I can't remember the name. As for JFK being a fan, I can't see how he wouldn't like this book, since it so closely parallels his experiences during World War II.
Do you remember the first film you saw in a theater growing up? What about the first album you purchased on your own? Do you think any of these led to you wanting to do what you do for a living?
No, I can't honestly say what the first film I ever saw was, although I have a distinct memory of my dad taking me and my brother to go see some Alfred Hitchcock film when I was about six. I don't know what the fuck was the matter with my father. The first album I purchased? Probably Wham! Make It Big. Why? Because Wham was awesome. No, I don't think either Alfred Hitchcock or George Michael had anything to do with my career choices. I'm not sure about Andrew Ridgeley, though. (The other guy in Wham)
I’ve been a huge fan of yours since your work on the groundbreaking sketch comedy show The State. There's a rumor about a new installment being in the works. Is there any truth to this?
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