The Serpent and the Stand-Up: How Adrianna Mitchell Faced Her Ultimate Fear for Comedy

Imagine, if you will, the spotlight warm on your face, the mic cool in your hand. You’re ready to deliver a killer set, right? Now, add a live, writhing snake – a rather large one, mind you – coiled around your neck. Oh, and you’re absolutely terrified of snakes. Sounds like a nightmare, doesn’t it? For Atlanta native Adrianna Mitchell, this was the premise for her recent appearance on Paramount+’s brilliantly wild show, “Comedy Crutch.” And honestly, what a triumph it was.

Adrianna, a familiar name in the comedy circuit, especially to those who’ve followed her journey from the open mic nights in her hometown to the bustling stages of Los Angeles, truly put herself to the test. A proud alumna of Georgia State University, where she studied broadcast journalism—you could say the stage was always calling—she took a dare in 2017 that led her straight into stand-up. Fast forward a bit, and a serendipitous encounter with none other than the legendary Tracy Morgan at The Comedy Store changed everything. He saw her, he liked her, and before she knew it, she was opening for him, then eventually joining him on "Comedy Crutch."

Now, about "Comedy Crutch": it's a show with a concept as simple as it is diabolical. Comedians perform their sets while navigating a significant “crutch” – a physical or mental obstacle designed to challenge their performance. We’re talking about everything from performing blindfolded to, yes, confronting your deepest phobia. For Adrianna, that meant facing her lifelong ophidiophobia head-on, delivering jokes with a live, slithering co-star. It's almost unbelievable, isn't it?

She prepared for weeks, meticulously. Visited a reptile shop, spent time with a snake handler – all to acclimate herself, even just a little, to the creature that made her skin crawl. It wasn't just about memorizing lines; it was about mastering a primal fear. And, you know, when you see her on stage, there’s this incredible tension mixed with absolute comedic timing. The audience, naturally, was riveted. How could they not be? This wasn't just a performance; it was a genuine, raw moment of human vulnerability and strength.

Tracy Morgan, whose own comedic prowess is undeniable, couldn’t help but sing her praises. And really, who could blame him? To stare down something that paralyzes you, to then turn that terror into laughter – that, my friends, is not just comedy; it's courage. It’s an inspiring testament to the power of pushing past your comfort zone, something Adrianna herself emphasizes, encouraging us all to step into those uncomfortable spaces because that’s where, truly, the magic happens. What a lesson, huh?

Her performance on "Comedy Crutch" serves as a powerful reminder: whether it’s a fear of public speaking, a new challenge at work, or yes, a fear of snakes, facing it head-on can unlock something incredible. And if you can get a laugh out of it? Well, that’s just icing on the cake, isn't it?