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American Jesse Appell, a Fulbright scholar in 2012, researched Chinese comedy and became a successful comic, performing in clubs and appearing on TV, growing alongside China's expanding comedy scene.

Fulbright Scholar Explores Chinese Comedy

In 2012, American Jesse Appell traveled to China on a Fulbright scholarship with an unusual research focus: the art of Chinese comedy. Over the following years, Appell, then in his twenties, immersed himself in the country's vibrant comedy scene. He dedicated himself to studying traditional comedy under a master, honing his craft and understanding of the unique cultural humor.

Rise as a Comic and Cultural Impact

Appell's journey extended beyond academia, transforming him into an active participant in China's comedy landscape. He performed jokes in clubs across the country and even made appearances on television. He witnessed firsthand the unforeseen expansion of China's comedy scene and its growing cultural footprint, becoming an integral part of this evolving phenomenon.

*Source: SCMP China (2026-03-20)*

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