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Kumail Nanjiani: Back to Stand-Up Roots!
15 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Kumail Nanjiani returns to stand-up for his first theater tour in a decade.
- The tour supports his Hulu special, 'Night Thoughts,' covering personal topics.
- WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes prompted his return to live comedy performance.
After achieving significant success in Hollywood with projects like 'Silicon Valley' and 'The Big Sick,' Kumail Nanjiani is revisiting his origins in stand-up comedy. He is embarking on his first theater tour in a decade, supporting his latest special, 'Night Thoughts,' now available on Hulu. This special explores themes from his personal anxieties and recent physical changes to the passing of his cat and his experiences with online criticism.
Nanjiani's primary goal with 'Night Thoughts' is to solidify his identity as a dedicated stand-up performer for fans primarily familiar with his acting roles. He began his comedy career in Chicago's alternative scene in the early 2000s, eventually contributing to the vibrant stand-up culture in Los Angeles.
The 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes provided the impetus for Nanjiani's return to the stage, temporarily halting his film and television work. While his schedule is now packed with upcoming acting commitments and his own production company, Winter Coat, the exact role of stand-up in his future output remains uncertain.
