Chris Redd is one of the top traffic-drivers to Mint Comedy, and for good reason. The “Saturday Night Live” alum is known for his explosive comedic energy and hilarious characters. But in 2025, Redd has been showing the world a completely different side of his talent with a dramatic turn in the hit STARZ series “Power Book III: Raising Kanan.”
If you only know Redd from his stand-up or his “SNL” impressions, his new role will shock you. Here’s what you need to know about his character.
Who is “Early Tyler”?
Redd joined the cast for Season 4 as “Early Tyler,” a character connected to the neighborhood rival, Unique (played by Joey Bada$$).
This is not a comedic-relief role. Redd has dived headfirst into the gritty, high-stakes world of “Power.” His character, Early Tyler, is a hustler who is deeply entangled in the show’s central drug conflicts. In interviews, Redd has talked about the challenge of shelving his comedic instincts to play a dramatic character who is, in his own words, “dirty” and “oily.”
A Major Dramatic Turn
This role is a major step for Redd, proving his range as an actor. He brings a frantic, nervous energy to the character that fits perfectly within the “Power” universe. He’s holding his own opposite a cast of heavyweight dramatic actors, proving he’s far more than just a “funny guy.”
It’s a powerful performance that has fans and critics alike taking notice. While we’ll always love his stand-up, seeing Chris Redd stretch his dramatic muscles in “Raising Kanan” is a thrilling new chapter for one of comedy’s most exciting stars.
