THOMAS BOYCE can be seen on BYUtv series Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ. Boyce is one of six promising kids who were handpicked by Wayne Brady himself to compete in a multitude of comedic challenges while also learning new skillsets along the way.
After submitted his self-tape, Boyce was picked by Wayne to bypass the multiple rounds of callbacks and secure a spot on the show.
AC: What can audiences expect from Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ?
THOMAS BOYCE: Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ is a competition show where Wayne Brady mentors 11 kids in a lot of comedic challenges from improv and sketch comedy to stand up; we’re bringing you the funny! This show allows you to see our journey as young comedians and our growth in the comedy field. It was a roller coaster, and I can’t wait for you all to join the ride of laughs, heartaches, surprises, and disappointments. It gets rocky out here in these ‘comedy streets’, but I enjoyed every minute.
Can you recall any funny moments from on-set filming?
There was a celeb guest star that surprised us and I kind of “fan-girled” out. I guess that’s more embarrassing than funny, but it will probably be funny to you all.
What was it like working with Wayne Brady?
It was amazing! He’s an improv genius and super talented. I learned a lot from him. He’s a great guy, and he’s very down to earth. He’s very passionate about making us better.
What was the audition process like?
I was able to send in a self-tape, and Wayne Brady saw it and allowed me to come out be one of the 11 kids to compete.
Who is your favorite comedian?
Easy! Eddie Murphy followed by Dave Chappell.
What was it like growing up in Houston?
Sweaty. Houston is hot almost all year! But I love Houston. It’s the best city on earth.
When on stage, do you have a fear you’d like to conquer?
My biggest fear is forgetting my lines and bombing. But I don’t really get nervous on stage, I feel like I’m at home and in my element. I get butterflies on the way to the stage.
How has your childhood inspired your sense of humor?
I remember being in kindergarten and making my entire class laugh while we were doing our schoolwork. I’ve been chasing that feeling every day since. I just want to make the world laugh.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years?
I hope the world is a more accepting and loving place. We’re all different, but we’re all the same. We’re all a part of the human race, and I hope we get to a place where we embrace each other despite our differences.
If you had the chance to put something on billboards worldwide next week, what would it be? Or what would it say?
Don’t take yourself so seriously! Enjoy your life and be great!
How important is social media to you right now?
Social media is very important because it’s a new platform to get your message out there. Most new comedians are social media comedians versus the traditional stand-up comedians that work the clubs. The game is different, and I love it…makes it easier to get noticed, I think.
Everyone seems to have an app idea at the moment, what’s yours?
I’d love to start a networking app for people that are pursuing a career in entertainment.
PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMAAL D. LATHAN
INTERVIEW: ADAM CROOKES
