Bill Hicks (December 16, 1961 - February 26, 1994), was a controversial American stand-up comedian, satirist, and social critic. Hicks is often compared to Lenny Bruce (although he frequently denied knowing much about Bruce's life or work) and Sam Kinison (a contemporary and friend). Comedian Richard Pryor figured largely as an inspiration and stand-up idol for Hicks, as did Woody Allen who also served strongly as a very early influence for a pre-teen Bill. Like Lenny Bruce, Hicks believed in upholding the true freedom that should be afforded to one living in a purported democracy, attacking hypocritical beliefs and questioning "traditional values" that may now be obsolete and therefore in need of change. Hicks characterized his own performances as "Chomsky with dick jokes".
