Caribbean National Weekly

Jamaican diaspora comedian Dale Elliot is bringing shows across the US and in South Florida

By Joanne Clark··2 min read
Jamaican diaspora comedian Dale Elliot is bringing shows across the US and in South Florida
Key Points(4)
  • <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p style="text-align: left;">Growing up in Jamaica, comedian Dale Elliott Jr., who now lives in California, found his early inspirations for comedy not on television, but through the tales of his two grandmothers.
  • Each had her distinct personality: one was relaxed and laid-back, while the other was a firm disciplinarian.
  • </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This venture not only introduced him to the world of acting but also secured him a work visa for the U.S.
  • It was then that he had a poignant reunion with his father, whom he had not seen since his boyhood days in Jamaica.

Growing up in Jamaica, comedian Dale Elliott Jr., who now lives in California, found his early inspirations for comedy not on television, but through the tales of his two grandmothers. Each had her distinct personality: one was relaxed and laid-back, while the other was a firm disciplinarian. Depending on which house he was in, Dale had to adapt to each Granny’s unique set of rules.

“Problem Child, Bad Pickney”: A nod to roots and rules

Drawing from his childhood experiences, Dale crafted “Problem Child: Bad Pickney Tour”.

This tour is now making waves across the U.S., with an anticipated stop in Broward. 

Those interested can catch him this weekend at the Coral Spring Arts Center.

South Florida holds a special place in Dale’s heart, given that his father resides in Fort Lauderdale and his U.S.-based grandmother attends every one of his performances.

Silver screens and sprinter dreams

Sprinter (2019) starring Jamaican comedian and actor Dale Elliot, from executive producers Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith.

Before making his mark in comedy, Dale was cast in “Sprinter”, a film drawing inspiration from the life of renowned Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt. 

This venture not only introduced him to the world of acting but also secured him a work visa for the U.S. It was then that he had a poignant reunion with his father, whom he had not seen since his boyhood days in Jamaica. 

Touching upon the emotional intensity of this experience, Dale believes trauma makes for good comedy.

More on Sprinter

Digital diaspora: A patois performer

Since his entry into the U.S., Dale has been taking the digital realm by storm.

 Fans eagerly tune into his comedy sketches on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, where he often performs in Jamaican patois. 

A voice on Sundial

Eager to share more about his craft, inspirations, and personal journey, Dale appeared on the September 13 episode of Sundial.

There, he delved deep into topics like storytelling, familial bonds, cultural nuances, and the people who bring joy to his life through laughter.

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