D.L. Hughley Brings Unfiltered Laughter to Madison This Weekend at Comedy on State

Madison’s about to light up with grown-folk comedy when the legendary D.L. Hughley hits Comedy on State this weekend for four shows, Saturday and Sunday. The Original King of Comedy himself took a quick break from playing golf with Smokey Robinson — yes, that Smokey Robinson — to check in with me ahead of his Madtown takeover.

“I’m getting my ass whooped by Smokey Robinson out here,” Hughley joked. “But I’m excited, man. It’s such a beautiful little town. The club is nice, the people are nice — I’m just really, really looking forward to getting there.”

From Kings of Comedy to Madison Crowds

D.L. Hughley has done it all — from BET ComicView to The Hughleys, from national radio to CNN. Now he’s bringing that same blend of sharp wit and social truth to the 608.

When I asked him how it feels to still be innovating after decades in the game, his answer was pure D.L.:

“Anything, when you learn something and you get to do it over and over again — that’s the thing.”

Hughley says he’s been to Madison a few times before, and he knows exactly what kind of energy to expect.

“This is like my third time playing. You got a big football game this weekend, and I’m just saying — it’s never been a better time for comedy. It’s a horrible time for the country,” he laughed, “but a great time for comedy.”

Front-Row Warning: You Might Be Part of the Show

If you’ve ever seen D.L. live, you know nobody’s safe — especially the front row.

“You gotta watch that front row,” he warned. “I promise you’re gonna laugh till you hurt yourself.”

When asked what topics are always fair game on stage, D.L. didn’t hesitate:

“What they wear, who they came with, what they drink — everything’s on board.”

And while the quick wit looks effortless, he says there’s always method behind the madness:

“I always try to wait to see what the day brings before I write a set. So a lot of it will be like 60–40 — part planned, part freestyle.”

Legacy, Laughs, and Keeping It 100

Hughley reflected briefly on his hit sitcom The Hughleys, saying today’s world would definitely give it a modern twist:

“It’d probably be a lot more to talk about. It’s all the same thing, just folded a different way.”

And when it came to comparing his fellow Kings, the answer was easy:

“Cedric’s definitely funnier off stage,” he said, laughing. “No question.”

Madison — This Is the One You Don’t Miss

Four shows. Two nights. One comedy icon. D.L. Hughley live at Comedy on State is the kind of weekend Madtown was built for.

🎟️ Tickets: madisoncomedy.com
📍 When: Saturday & Sunday, November 8–9
🔥 Where: Comedy on State — Downtown Madison

“I can’t wait,” Hughley said. “Like a rainstorm out of the L.A. sunshine — bring the heat, too.”

Madison — let’s show out and pack the house. The laughs are guaranteed, and the front row? They’re in for an experience they’ll never forget.