Paul McCartney Crashes Comedian’s Set After Both ‘Got High’ Backstage

Paul McCartney crashed Black-ish star Deon Cole’s stand-up set at the Hollywood Improv on Sept. 17 after both reportedly “got high” backstage.

"I got high with my friend tonight, and we had a good time,” Cole told the crowd before telling them to “please give it up for my friend, Paul McCartney." As the surprised audience applauded the legendary musician’s arrival, McCartney leaned in and whispered a few words in Cole’s ear.

"I had to smoke, and that's why this is happening," Cole told the crowd. “See, you never know,” the comedian said of the show’s unpredictable roster. "And y'all motherf---ers did not give no love to me at all tonight,” he joked.

Far from a passive audience member, McCartney came armed with notes. “I’ve just enjoyed seeing you work through this material,” he told Cole. “And you’re right, some of it bombed,” he joked as the audience laughed. “But you got the gems in there, man, that’s great,” he added.

McCartney then offered some consolation, explaining even he had weathered disastrous performances. “In the beginning, when [The Beatles] started out, guys used to throw pennies at us,” he said. “Took a while to know what we were doing.”

“That don’t feel good, Paul,” Cole told him. “I think I’ve been doing it long enough, but I hear what you’re saying.” McCartney then reassured Cole he was “great,” but as he left the stage told the comedian, “I didn’t turn you on to smoking.”

“Yes you did, motherf---er,” Cole shot back. “You had me smoking with you and s--t.”

Cole has much to celebrate this week, as his Netflix special Ok, Mister has entered the streamer’s top three most-watched TV series since premiering on Sept. 17.