Rise to Success: Career Highlights of David Cross

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how David Cross made an impact.

David Cross is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer notable for his stand-up comedy and work on several television shows. He gained prominence as the co-creator and star of the sketch comedy series *Mr. Show with Bob and David* and further recognition for his portrayal of Tobias Fünke in the sitcom *Arrested Development*. Cross has also appeared in films, including the *Alvin and the Chipmunks* franchise. He is considered a significant figure in cult Gen X comedy.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

April 2005: Criticism of Larry the Cable Guy

In April 2005, David Cross criticized stand-up comedian Larry the Cable Guy in a Rolling Stone interview, citing what he saw as anti-gay and racist humor.

December 2005: Mocking Larry the Cable Guy

In December 2005, David Cross ended his performance on Comedy Central's Last Laugh '05 by mockingly yelling Larry the Cable Guy's catchphrase, "GIT-R-DONE!", to the audience as he left the stage.

2006: Early Kickstarter investor

In 2006, David Cross was among the "friends and family" who first financed Kickstarter.

December 2007: Backlash from Alvin and the Chipmunks Role

In December 2007, David Cross received backlash for his role in "Alvin and the Chipmunks", with Patton Oswalt joking about rejecting the role.

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2009: Reprising role in Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel

In 2009, David Cross reprised his role as Ian Hawke in Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.

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2011: Appearance in Beastie Boys' "Make Some Noise" Music Video

In 2011, David Cross appeared in the Beastie Boys' music video for "Make Some Noise", which was nominated for Video of The Year at the MTV Video Music Awards.

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2011: "Chipwrecked" experience and controversies

In 2011, David Cross described his experience filming "Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked" as unpleasant, alleging antisemitism from a female producer and being forced to film unnecessary scenes, costing him a $150,000 bonus for violating a non-disparagement clause.

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September 26, 2013: Cross as early Kickstarter Investor

On September 26, 2013, Kickstarter co-founder Yancey Strickler revealed that David Cross was among the "friends and family" and the first investor in the crowdfunding platform.

2016: Praise for Bernie Sanders

In 2016, David Cross praised Senator Bernie Sanders in an interview, stating he admired Sanders "way before he ran for President".

2018: Release of "Bliss" and role in "Sorry to Bother You"

In 2018, David Cross created the eight-episode black comedy series "Bliss", released by BritBox, and he provided the "white voice" for the lead character in the film "Sorry to Bother You".

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2020: Appearance in "Beastie Boys Story"

In 2020, David Cross appeared in a post-credit scene of the Spike Jonze directed documentary "Beastie Boys Story", interrupting the group's theater performance.

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2021: Featured on Gravel Institute Video

In 2021, David Cross featured on a video produced by the Gravel Institute, a progressive think tank.

October 2023: Signing Artists4Ceasefire Letter

In October 2023, David Cross signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter, calling for a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza War.

October 16, 2025: Guest Star Appearance on "Elsbeth"

On October 16, 2025, David Cross guest starred as Nolan Hurst in the "Elsbeth" TV series, specifically in the episode titled Doll Day Afternoon on CBS.

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