Chris Rock Making Return to Stand-Up with Two Netflix Specials

Chris Rock is coming back to stand-up. It was announced on Thursday that Rock has partnered with Netflix for two original comedy specials, the first of which will tape in 2017. The tapings will follow a world tour that is currently being planned.

“Chris Rock is a beloved actor and director, and his remarkable stand-up makes him comic royalty,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer. “There is no one like him, and Netflix offers the global platform and creative freedom that will serve as a perfect home for someone with his incredible talent.”

Rock most recently hosted the 88th Academy Awards, and also recently directed Amy Schumer’s stand-up special Amy Schumer: Live at the Apollo. Rock has also guest-starred on Empire, and in Bill Murray’s Netflix holiday special A Very Murray Christmas.

Rock has been absent from stand-up for eight years. Before that absence, Rock had a strong relationship with HBO, filming five stand-up specials for them from 1994 to 2008. Now, Netflix has earned the rights to Rock’s new specials, adding his name to a list that already includes John Mulaney, Patton Oswalt, David Cross and many others.