David Cross, comedian and film/TV star, is best known for his role as the never-nude, unconsciously double-entendre slinging Dr. Tobias Funke in the TV show Arrested Development, and also as one of the stars of the groundbreaking sketch show Mr. Show in the early ’90s, which has influenced a whole generation of comedians. Unfortunately, since the demise of Arrested Development, Cross has actually been reduced to the indignity of writing a book (chortle). The autobiographically-titled I Drink For a Reason (Grand Central) is full of nuggets of humorous wisdom, from his detail of the soulcrushing effects of Valentine‘s Day in “A Non-Sponsored Look at Holidays In America“ to the uplifting “The Five People You Will Meet In Limbo.” He will be reading and signing the book Monday, Sept. 28 at 4 p.m. at The King’s English Bookstore, and he’ll deliver the standup that evening 8 p.m. at In the Venue.
Why did you write the book? Was it a desperation move?
My cousin was kidnapped, and part of the ransom demands was that I write a humorous book of 250-275 words, published by Thanksgiving. He was released by his captor, a lady in Stuttgart, Germany, who wanted the zoning laws changed so that she could operate a commercial bakery in her own home.
Is it all downhill (by “it,” I mean your career) after Arrested Development, or is it all gravy?
Yes, any subsequent events in my professional and personal career, including the disintegration of my marriage and the death of our child. And it’s also been gravy, quite literally.
What can Salt Lakers expect from your “comedic stylings”?
People who attend book readings are more literate and sophisticated, while standup comedy audiences are more primitive—like cavemen banging on sticks and rocks and trying to create fire. I’ll pull out all the stops. I’ll tear Salt Lake City a new asshole!
Are there any plans to make a movie out of the book, and, if so, who would play you?
Ideas are being tossed around. A young Kathy Griffin or the horse from Seabiscuit. I might add that the book is completely edible, is tasty and contains no transfats.
Another article about a comedian:
More by Brian Staker
-
Live Music Picks: April 12-18
Judas Priest, The Residents, Clownvis Presley, The Breeders and more.
- Apr 11, 2018
-
Loving the Alienation
Helios Creed and Chrome continue making iconoclastic music for outcasts.
- Mar 28, 2018
-
Live Music Picks: March 22-28
U.S. Girls, Ed Schrader’s Music Beat, Hell’s Belles, Columbia Jones and more.
- Mar 21, 2018
- More »
Latest in 5 Spot
