Never one to shy away from the limelight, a comedy tour is the perfect medium for the eccentric Artest to vocalize the comedic musings he is so renowned for on Twitter. In fact, Artest initially made the announcement of his planned tour earlier this summer via the social networking site:

In addition to the two night stop on July 15th and 16th at Caroline’s in NYC announced by Artest via Twitter, six more shows have been added. Ron Ron will also bring his comedy to Laker’s town, playing four shows over two days at the Hollywood Improv on July 8th and 9th, the Improv Brea on July 29th and 30th and MGM Foxwood’s in Connecticut on August 5th and 6th

Slated to host “the countries best comics to one stage” it is not clear whether Artest himself will perform or if he is simply the philanthropic ring leader of this so called super group of comics.

An abundance of disappointment can be expected if Artest himself does not perform, as it is undoubtedly his potential for comedic controversy that are selling the show’s tickets so quickly. Sold out in LA already, fans only have one opportunity left to see him at his NYC shows, and see if this “Ultimate Comedy Tour” is the real deal. One thing is for sure, whether Artest himself is on stage or not; the show will include a multitude of costumes:

@ronartest:Yes I will be having a variety of outfits Crazy outfits Super funny “
3 June

and lastly:

“@ronartest: I need some funny ideas for outfits “
June 7

Artest, one of the league’s top defenders and a rapper, is no rookie when it comes to the media spotlight. He has long been known for his unconventional and outspoken behaviour, as well as being one of the major participants in the Pacers-Pistons brawl. The brawl took place in 2004 finding Artest punching Detroit Pistons’ fan A.J. Shackleford, who was purportedly verbally taunting Artest, in the face. As a result, Artest was suspended for the remainder of the season, missing 86 games; the longest suspension for an oncourt incident in NBA history.

The publicity surrounding Artest is not all negative however, and over the last few years he has been gaining recognition for feats much more respectable then assaulting sporting fans.

Recently, Artest has been known for his advocacy and philanthropy work regarding mental health issues. He announced in December of 2010 that he would donate some or all of his salary for the 2011-2012 season in the name of mental health awareness charities.

In addition to this he has also auctioned off and donated the proceeds of his 2009-10 championship ring. It is this unlikely combination of aggressive athlete, humanitarian and eccentric oddball that make Artest not only one of the most entertaining players in the NBA, but one of the most endearing as well.

So if you get a chance this summer, don’t hesitate to check out Ron Ron while he stops in one of four cities this summer for the “Ron Artest: The Ultimate Comedy Tour”.

Just be certain to keep one thing in mind; if you don’t like the show, don’t tell Ron that.