Walking Away Short Answer

Dave Chappelle became one of comedy’s biggest stars but made an unusual decision at the height of his success. This passage introduces students to Chappelle’s childhood in Washington, D.C., his early fascination with comedians such as Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy, and his move to New York City to pursue stand-up comedy. Readers follow his journey from performing in small clubs to becoming a successful actor and comedian.

This worksheet focuses on the enormous success of Chappelle’s Show and Chappelle’s surprising decision to leave the program despite its popularity. Students learn how pressure from the entertainment industry led him to step away so he could regain control over his career. The passage then follows his eventual return to stand-up comedy. Students practice identifying motivations, understanding cause and effect, and examining how success can involve choices that are about more than fame or money.