High Laughs: Dante ‘The Comic’ Rusciolelli on Comedy, Cannabis, and Keeping It Real

From the vibrant stages of San Diego’s comedy clubs to the intense spotlight of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” Dante “The Comic” Rusciolelli has navigated the shifting tides of comedy with adaptive grace, matched only by his dynamic stage presence.

Born in Ridgecrest, California, and having embarked on his comedy journey in 1986, Dante has not only left his mark as a comedian but also as a talent manager, actor, and passionate activist. His diverse career has seen him performing in front of troops around the world, starring in BET’s “The Blackberry Inn,” and captivating audiences on “Last Comic Standing.”

Pot Culture Magazine: Dante, you’ve had an extensive career in comedy and acting. How has your comedic style evolved since you started?

Dante: Oh, it’s been a wild ride. Started in ’86, all young and flashy with Elvis hairdos and suits. Then the ’90s hit, and bam, hip-hop took over, and so did my wardrobe. Went from comedy clubs to black rooms, and my style did a full 180.

PCM: With such rich experiences, who would you say influenced your comedy the most?

Dante: The greats, you know? Pryor, Murphy, Rock. But I learn a lot from the ones I don’t dig to. Shows me what not to do.

PCM: Your journey’s been nothing short of remarkable. Any words of wisdom for the up-and-comers?

Dante: Ha, get yourself a rich spouse, then go chase your dreams. But for real, this biz is a rollercoaster. Make your mark, but be ready for the ups and downs.

PCM: Let’s shift gears. Tell us about your first time…with cannabis.

Ah, that’s a bit hazy. But this one time, my buddy John Ricaldy dared me in school. Probably just faked it then. My real ‘first time’ was a disaster before a college play rehearsal. Totally bombed my lines!

PCM: Did you ever get hit by that infamous couch lock?

Dante: Oh, totally. Used to hate it, feeling all stuck and out of control. But hey, COVID changed things. Started experimenting, and now I can enjoy it without turning into a statue.

PCM: How often do you indulge nowadays?

Dante: Every day, mostly at night. If I smoke during the day, it’s for pain management.

PCM: Do you have any favorite strains?

Dante: Still exploring. Thought I’d be an Indica guy, but it gets me all anxious. So, maybe a daytime hybrid and Indica for night sounds about right.

PCM: You’ve been quite vocal about your activism, especially with the LAPD. What sparked this?

Dante: It all started when I was just chilling at my house and heard this commotion outside. I went out to see what was going on and saw this young kid, who couldn’t have been more than 19, getting pushed around by the cops.

There were like 10 cop cars and a helicopter, all for this kid who was just standing there, looking scared out of his mind. And then they pulled over these two other young guys and even a grandpa.

It was clear to me they hadn’t done anything wrong; they were just being targeted. So, I started yelling, asking the cops what the guys did, and I pulled out my phone and began filming. That video blew up bigger than I expected – Rihanna even followed me after that. But it wasn’t about the fame for me. I’ve always just wanted to stand up for what’s right. Sure, it’s had its impact on my comedy career, but I’ve never regretted doing what I felt was necessary.

PCM: And the activism, it’s pretty bold going against the LAPD.

Dante: Had to do something, right? Saw injustice right on my street. But man, it’s been tough. Got some heat, but also a lot of support. Gotta pick your battles, though.

PCM: Lastly, any sneak peeks into your book? Sounds like a hell of a read.

Dante: It’s gonna be wild, man. From boxing with Ali to managing Ron Jeremy, and everything in between. It’s all in there, and then some.

As our conversation with Dante “The Comic” Rusciolelli comes to a close, it’s clear that his journey through comedy, activism, and personal evolution is as multifaceted as it is inspiring. Dante continues to shine on stage and off, using his voice to spark laughter and change in equal measure.

For those eager to connect with Dante or learn from his vast experience in stand-up comedy, you can follow him on Twitter @Dantethecomic, visit his website at comicdante.com, or explore the wide array of talents he represents through Golden Artists Entertainment.

Dante is not only a fixture in the world of comedy but also a mentor and manager to some of the biggest names in entertainment today. His commitment to nurturing new talent and his unyielding dedication to his craft make Dante a true renaissance man of the modern comedy scene. Don’t miss the chance to dive into the world of a comic who teaches, entertains, and stands up for what he believes in.

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