Five years ago, I found myself in a small comedy club in Houston, Texas that a few friends had dragged me into. A man named Willie Barcena was headlining. After the show, I talked to Willie for a while over some drinks and noticed something that set him apart from most comedians; heart and a genuine attitude. Willie didn’t have to try and be funny; he just had to be Willie. Two weeks ago, while flipping through channels on TV, I was shocked to see that in five minutes the premiere of Willie Barcena’s Showtime special “I Gotta Be Honest” was about to begin. This is his story.
Well Willie, you know I have to ask. Why comedy?
My real dream was to become a cop. After getting my date for starting the academy, I was so excited I went out drinking with a few buddies. I ended up getting a DUI that night and ruined the chance of having my dream job.
So comedy was your second choice?
I had never thought about it. After the DUI, I was depressed. And I mean DEPRESSED. When A friend came to visit and talked me into trying an open mic night since I had always been the joker of the group. And ever since that first time, I realized it’s just who I am. Even if you fail at your dream, start a new one.
What was your first breakthrough gig?
Well I was down in Sacramento doing a show and afterwards, the producer from a radio station in Los Angeles asked me If I thought I could do radio. I accepted the offer on the spot and loved every second of it. Not long after that, I did a HBO Special that was hosted by Carlos Mencia, featuring up and coming Latin comedians. Then shortly after the HBO special, I finally had the opportunity for my first one hour special (which aired on Comedy Central). I don’t feel that special really did me justice. Some of my jokes were changed, I couldn’t perform some parts I had planned to, and I really felt that the commercials really messed up the rhythm of my performance.
Well. Let’s get down to it. How did you land the special with Showtime?
Within a year after the Comedy Central special, I had a whole new hour which I was very confident with. I called Scott Montoya, the producer of my Comedy Central special, to come check it out at my next gig. He really didn’t believe I was ready for another hour special so quick. After he saw it, all the right pieces fell in place and Showtime agreed to it. This was my chance to show me. All me. Uncensored with no damn commercials. (Barcena laughs)
So what’s next? Your own show?
(Barcena laughs) I’m just about done writing a new special and will be ready in about 6 six months. But until then man, I stay doing shows.
Catch Willie Barcena’s Showtime Special “I Gotta Be Honest” anytime on Showtime On Demand. Stay tuned for the second part of the interview with Willie and the BackstageOL exclusive on his new project being filmed now.
