Chris Bliss

For comedian and commentator Chris Bliss, life has been a study in contrasts. The youngest son of a Washington D.C. attorney, he majored in comparative literature at Northwestern University and the University of Oregon before dropping out at the end of his junior year. The reason? To pursue a career in juggling. And what did his argumentative father think about the choice? "He told me I was ruining my life, which I can understand in retrospect. Your son comes home after his third year of college - where he's on the dean's list - and says he's running off to join the circus . . . what would you say?"

But it wasn't the circus that Bliss had his eye on. His act was pure rock 'n roll. Using music ranging from the Beatles to Peter Gabriel, and augmented with custom lighting and special effects, he transformed juggling into aerial choreography. Bliss quickly became in demand as the perfect concert opening act, eventually sharing the bill with superstars as diverse as Eric Clapton, Julio Iglesias, and Willie Nelson (who called him "the best damn juggler I ever saw"), and culminating with being chosen as the sole opening act for Michael Jackson's Victory Tour in 1984 ("during his beige period", Bliss explains). Did he ever meet the Gloved One? "Just once. One of his band members introduced us, and Michael said the oddest thing: '"It must take a lot of rhythm to do what you do." So I said: "You, too, Michael."

The Jackson credit brought him offers to be the featured specialty act in big production shows in Las Vegas, Paris, and even one from Japan. But all had the same Catch-22. "Imagine", Bliss recounts, "finally getting over the rainbow, and the pot of gold is there. And all you have to do to get it is perform the same 12-15 minutes a night. forever. That was it for me."

Taking the advice of many friends, he decided to try his hand at stand-up comedy: "The hardest part was going from something where I was one of the best to something where, basically, I wasn't even at the bottom of the list. Hell, I wasn't even on the list." Putting all his energy toward learning his new craft, Bliss honed his comedy skills with relentless road work ("40-45 weeks a year").

It paid off. Rediscovering long-lost writing skills, Bliss's comedy took on the same innovative edge his variety act was known for. Soon he was headlining top clubs around the country, and appearing on a slew of cable comedy shows. Then came an offer to write for the short-lived "Jackie Thomas Show" on ABC.

Finally his big break came: The "Tonight Show" called - they wanted to take a look at Bliss. After his third audition, the spot was approved. Following an auspicious debut, he soon became a "Tonight Show" regular, receiving the ultimate accolade from Jay Leno, who called Bliss "one of the brightest comedians around", adding "I really enjoy this man's work".

His comedy and variety skills have also led him to become a viral sensation. Known for his "Amazing Juggling Finale" video, which has been downloaded approximately 100 million times, Bliss continues to influence new audiences. He has integrated juggling into his stand-up performances to great effect, thrilling audiences by confirming that, indeed, he once toured with Michael Jackson.

Bliss's engagement with his craft extends beyond performances. He has actively participated in charity through his work with the Bill of Rights Monument Project and has produced significant events such as the Phoenix Comedy Festival, which raised over $140,000. His keynote speeches and educational programs at events like Chicago Ideas Week showcase his ability to blend humor with serious topics, engaging audiences in meaningful dialogue.

Bliss has offered audiences international laughter and insights, performing not just in North America but also in venues across five continents. His diverse talents have made him a sought-after performer at major festivals, including the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal.

A fresh and captivating new voice in the tradition of American satire from Will Rogers to Dennis Miller, Chris Bliss delivers smart comedy for the information age. Now a Tonight Show favorite, Bliss was internationally known as an innovative variety artist before beginning his comedy career - touring with major artists from Eric Clapton to Julio Iglesias, and chosen by Michael Jackson as the opening act for his record-breaking "Victory Tour". Insightful humor, capped off with a world-class variety finale that your audience won't soon forget - Chris Bliss is two of the best in one outstanding performer.