In anticipation of comedian, actor and Kentucky native Hal Sparks' return to the state, I got the juice on a range of topics from not only his success but also to his strong political views, his personal and professional growth, and what lies ahead for him. Here're some snippets I picked up from the conversation:
Hal hasn't always been famous:
The path to his entertaining career began in Peaks Mill, Ky., where a young Hal Sparks realized his calling while watching movies and stand-up comedy performances. After relocating to Chicago at 14, Hal continued with his love for stand-up comedy and, 16 days after graduating high school, he packed his car and left for Los Angeles with a plan and a place to crash on his agent's floor.
Did he ever imagine he would make it in showbiz?
"Yes, of course! If you have a strong enough vision of who you are and who you want to be, you start making decisions based on that. If you don't discover you, nobody else will."
Hal could moonlight as a motivational speaker:
Hal sees it as both his goal and responsibility to better his capabilities and talents, which is easily proven when you hear of his 5 percent plan. In the plan, he decided to improve himself (personally, professionally, etc) 1 percent each day. Why just 1 percent? Most people create unrealistic goals that set them up for failure, like New Year's Resolutions.
"One percent is a realistic, digestible part that can be achieved - 1 percent you can always do."
Hal can sing and play guitar:
Hal is both the lead singer and guitarist for Zero 1 (formerly known as The Hal Sparks band).
Having performed alongside Smokey Robinson, Sebastian Bach, Dennis DeYoung, Wynonna Judd and Gladys Knight during his run on Fox's Celebrity Duets, I asked who would be his dream duet?
"Paul Stanley of KISS."
Hal is Straight Edge:
Hal was straight edge before that type of lifestyle was even known in the hardcore punk subculture. He does not drink alcohol, smoke, or do drugs. He never has and adamantly states that he never will.
Hal is a Democrat:
It is not a well-guarded secret that Hal carries a large distaste for the current administration. His endorsement for this coming election is Hilary Clinton. He endorsed and financially backed Wesley Clarke in his previous run for The White House and would like to see him as the vice presidential choice for Clinton if she were to get the nomination.
Hal does not think comedians are the saddest people:
With the deaths of comedians such as Mitch Hedberg, Chris Farley and Richard Jeni reported in the media, coupled with allegations of depression, I asked Sparks if he thought there was a correlation. Are the world's funniest people secretly the saddest?
"No. More dentists commit suicide each year than any other profession."
Hal has a bright future:
Recently, he has written three films and executive-produced one of them, notably "The House That Jack Built," which just concluded filming and will hit theaters hopefully next year. VH-1 has kept him busy with "Celebracadabra" (which he describes as "'Celebrity Duets' with magic") debuting in March and "I Love the Millennium" in July. His band, Zero 1, is currently working on their second album, which will hopefully be available in stores (the first is available via iTunes).
Hal Sparks will be appearing at Comedy off Broadway February 7 - 9. Show times are at 8 p.m., with a second show at 10:30 p.m. on Fri. and Sat. Tickets can be purchased online at www.comedyoffbroadway.com or at the box office.