"The Daily Show" correspondent Hasan Minhaj discusses his one man show, "Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King." The show follows Minhaj's parents' arrival in the US from India, meeting his estranged sister, interracial love, racism, bullying, and his family's quest to achieve the elusive American Dream. The show will be at the Cherry Lane Theatre through November 15th, and will return for an extended stay from January 7-30.
Hasan told Leonard about mining his own life for his comedy routines, how his parents met (like a pre-smartphone Tinder), and why Jon Stewart reminded him of his own dad. He also breaks down how "The Daily Show's" segments get created, and what gets left on the cutting room floor.
Hasan Minhaj's Guest Picks:
What have you read or seen lately (book, play, film, etc.) that moved or surprised you?
The movies “Dope” and “Straight Outta Compton” blew me away. I love seeing directors and writers of color make amazing slices of pop culture.
What are you listening to right now?
J. Cole’s 2014 Forrest Hills Drive. The album, artwork, and director of that album was a HUGE influence on the visuals for Homecoming King.
What’s the last great book you read?
“Shantaram” is fantastic. An Australian prisoner escapes & joins the mafia in India? Sign me up. I love stuff that is based on true stories.
What’s one thing you’re a fan of that people might not expect?
I’m addicted to chocolate chip cookies. I mean that seriously. If there are chocolate chip cookies I will devour them.
What's your favorite comfort food?
My mom’s biryani. And lamb shahi korma with naan. During the winter it is absolutely delicious.
