David 'Dave' Chappelle (born August 24, 1973 in Washington, D.C.) is an American comedian, satirist, and actor. Early life Chappelle became enraptured by stand-up comedy as an elementary school student at Woodlin Elementary School in Silver Spring, Maryland, and at middle school in Yellow Springs, Ohio. His inspiration came from his favorite comedians and idols, such as Richard Pryor. His father, William, was a professor of voice and music at Antioch College in Yellow Springs.