NBC UNIVERSAL ANNOUNCES RESULTS OF ITS ANNUAL ‘STAND-UP FOR DIVERSITY’ COMIC SEARCH

December 16, 2009 by J!-ENT

COMEDIAN KEVIN SHEA WINS TALENT DEAL WITH NBC UNIVERSAL

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – December 16, 2009 – Comedian-actor Kevin Shea took home top honors at NBC Universal’s sixth-annual “Stand-Up for Diversity” comedy search held December 8 at The Comedy Store in West Hollywood, Calif. Hosted by comedian/actor/writer Chris Spencer, the event concluded a four-city search for the nation’s funniest diverse comics.

As a result, Shea was signed to a one-year talent holding deal with NBC Universal.

“Among an impressive group of comics, Kevin distinguished himself with his point of view and confidence. H e is a seasoned comic whose time has arrived. We’re excited to begin working with him at NBC Universal, ” said Grace Wu, Executive Vice-President, Casting, NBC Universal.

Chosen finalists received the honor of joining the touring company of the NBC’s “Stand-Up for Diversity College Tour.” This year’s finalists included Erik Rivera, Vanessa Graddick, Max Amini, Mal Hall, Kyle Grooms, Hari Kondabolu, Fahim Anwar, Josh Harris, Kareem Green and Shea.

In partnership with the National Association for Campus Activities (N.A.C.A.), the tour is expected to perform at more than 50 college campuses nationwide. Additionally, select finalists will be featured in February at the N.A.C.A convention in Boston, Massachusetts.

Shea was originally born in Seoul, South Korea, and was adopted and sent to America to live with a middle-class Irish-American family in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. With his unique style and jokes, Shea has had numerous television appearances, including Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and HBO’s “Down and Dirty.” Shea also will be joining the “Stand-Up for Diversity” tour this year as a correspondent capturing highlights from each city’s open call and showcase. He currently resides in Los Angeles.

In response to NBC Universal’s tremendous success in 2008 with the “Stand-Up for Diversity” open calls and showcases, this year’s nationwide search for the funniest comics of diverse backgrounds included such cities as New York City, Miami, Atlanta and San Diego.

The talent search was overseen by Kendra Carter, Director, NBC Talent Diversity Initiatives. All comedians were evaluated on the originality of their material, delivery, castability and overall performance. The 10 finalists were selected from a pool of over 50 semi-finalists.