First Look at the Comedy Central Patrice O’Neal Documentary, “Killing Is Easy”

Almost 10 years after his death, the life of the great comedian Patrice O’Neal will be celebrated in a new documentary from Comedy Central and All Things Comedy, as Patrice O’Neal: Killing Is Easy premieres this month on Feb. 19, 2021.

Here’s a sneak peak with a clip featuring Colin Quinn, Jim Norton, Dane Cook and Denis Leary, plus of course, Patrice:

Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Michael Bonfiglio (Gary Gulman: The Great Depresh, Jerry Before Seinfeld), the film recounts O’Neal’s life story and explores the hilarious and controversial material he left behind. Told through the eyes of the people who knew him best, Patrice O’Neal: Killing is Easy examines the life and legacy of a complex and controversial artist. Comics and friends reflect on this true original, a man who never achieved the success that many believed he was due and whose untimely death left many wondering what could have been. 

“There’s no way to express what comedy lost with the passing of Patrice O’Neal,” Bill Burr said. “I feel fortunate to have known him and I’m hoping this documentary will introduce his work to a new generation because he was one of the greatest comedians ever.”

“I am so proud to have completed this documentary about Patrice’s life and legacy, which will ensure his memory and comedy is kept alive, and continuously introduced to future generations,” said Von Decarlo. “It also warms my heart to see him get his well-deserved, starring role in a film.”

You know how the origin story of Patrice is that he started out as a heckler? Here’s comedian Gerroll Bennett and more with their side of the story!

Patrice O’Neal: Killing Is Easy debuts on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on Comedy Central.

Sean L. McCarthy

Editor and publisher since 2007, when he was named New York's Funniest Reporter. Former newspaper reporter at the New York Daily News, Boston Herald and smaller dailies and community papers across America. Loves comedy so much he founded this site.

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