Podcasts > 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer > Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

By Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer

In this episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe shares insights into his comedy career and the Netflix roast of Tom Brady. Hinchcliffe recounts his early days of honing his rapid-fire, hard-hitting style in various venues before gaining mainstream opportunities. He discusses his approach to performing in large arenas, leveraging audience reactions to maintain momentum.

Hinchcliffe provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process for the Brady roast, including collaboration with writers like Jeff Ross, intense preparation, and navigating the live format constraints. Hinchcliffe and his peers assess standout performances, notably Nikki Glaser's continuous flow of jokes and Hinchcliffe's dominant, high-energy set employing physicality and stage presence.

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Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

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Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

1-Page Summary

Tony Hinchcliffe's comedy career and rise to prominence

Tony Hinchcliffe's early days

Hinchcliffe honed his skills in diverse venues, including those with predominantly Black audiences. Despite early challenges, Hinchcliffe persisted for 17 years before gaining mainstream opportunities.

Hinchcliffe's unique comedic style

Hinchcliffe excels at delivering rapid-fire, impactful jokes. Tom Segura and others praise his improvisational talent. Hinchcliffe strategically uses physicality and stage presence to enhance his roasting performances.

Performing comedy in large venues

Hinchcliffe's experience in arenas and major events

Hinchcliffe recognizes the challenges of large venues. He paces his delivery differently, using laughter reverberation to his advantage. Unlike some comedians who pause for applause, Hinchcliffe's rapid-fire approach maintains momentum for both live and TV audiences.

Involvement in Netflix roast of Tom Brady

Despite initial resistance, Hinchcliffe made efforts to secure a spot roasting Tom Brady on Netflix. He strategically tailored his act through preparation while allowing for spontaneity, even writing opening lines on-the-fly.

The creative and logistics behind the Netflix roast of Tom Brady

Collaborative production process

The roast involved input from a writing team including Jeff Ross, who shaped its tone and content significantly, according to Hinchcliffe. Tom Brady himself provided feedback. Hinchcliffe assembled a dedicated prep team.

Hinchcliffe's preparation and mindset

Hinchcliffe obsessively prepared, adjusting material in real-time based on his position in the lineup and editing the prompter. Given time constraints, he opted for a rapid, forceful delivery as agreed by Whitney Cummings.

The comedic performances and audience reactions at the roast

Nikki Glaser's standout performance

Hinchcliffe predicted Glaser would excel, and she delivered powerhouse jokes with a continuous flow, earning an enthusiastic audience response and setting a high bar.

Hinchcliffe's dominant performance

Hinchcliffe navigated format constraints with a rapid-fire, high-energy set, walking the dais dynamically. His peers, including Segura and Kreischer, recognized his exceptional performance.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tony Hinchcliffe's rise to prominence in the comedy industry was marked by years of persistence and honing his craft in various venues, including those with predominantly Black audiences. Despite facing challenges early on, he eventually gained mainstream recognition after 17 years of hard work and dedication. His unique comedic style, characterized by rapid-fire jokes and strong stage presence, helped him stand out and attract praise from fellow comedians like Tom Segura. Through strategic performances in large venues and notable events like the Netflix roast of Tom Brady, Hinchcliffe showcased his talent and solidified his position in the comedy world.
  • Hinchcliffe's unique comedic style is characterized by rapid-fire, impactful jokes delivered with precision. He is known for his improvisational talent and strategic use of physicality and stage presence to enhance his roasting performances. His approach stands out for its high energy and quick pace, maintaining momentum and engagement with both live and TV audiences.
  • Hinchcliffe adapted his comedic timing and delivery for large venues, leveraging the audience's laughter to maintain momentum. Unlike some comedians who pause for applause, he maintained a rapid-fire approach to engage both live and TV audiences effectively. His experience in arenas required strategic pacing and utilization of physicality to enhance his performances.
  • Tony Hinchcliffe was initially resistant but eventually secured a spot to roast Tom Brady on Netflix. He tailored his act through preparation and spontaneity, adjusting material in real-time during the performance. The roast involved a collaborative production process with input from a writing team, including Jeff Ross, and feedback from Tom Brady himself. Hinchcliffe obsessively prepared for the roast, opting for a rapid, forceful delivery as agreed upon by Whitney Cummings.
  • The collaborative production process behind the Netflix roast of Tom Brady involved input from a writing team, including Jeff Ross, who significantly shaped the tone and content of the event. Tom Brady himself provided feedback on the material. Tony Hinchcliffe assembled a dedicated prep team to ensure the success of the roast.

Counterarguments

  • While Hinchcliffe's rapid-fire style is praised, some might argue that this approach can sacrifice depth and nuance in comedy, potentially overlooking the value of comedic timing and the impact of well-placed pauses.
  • The emphasis on improvisational talent could be seen as undervaluing the importance of carefully crafted and rehearsed material in stand-up comedy.
  • Hinchcliffe's use of physicality and stage presence might be critiqued as compensating for material that may not stand as strong on its own.
  • The ability to perform in large venues is commendable, but it could be argued that intimate venues allow for a different, potentially richer, comedic connection with the audience that large venues cannot provide.
  • Tailoring an act for a specific event like a roast on Netflix might lead to content that is less relatable or accessible to a general audience.
  • The collaborative production process involving a writing team and feedback from the subject of the roast (Tom Brady) might dilute the comedian's individual voice and authenticity.
  • Obsessive preparation and adjusting material in real-time could be seen as a lack of confidence in one's original material or an inability to commit to a comedic perspective.
  • Nikki Glaser's standout performance at the roast, while commendable, might overshadow other performers who are equally talented but perhaps had less favorable conditions or were less highlighted by the production.
  • The recognition of Hinchcliffe's performance by his peers could be subject to the biases of friendship and professional camaraderie, rather than an objective assessment of his comedic abilities.

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Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Tony Hinchcliffe's comedy career and rise to prominence

Tony Hinchcliffe's journey from small venues to headlining stages encapsulates the tenacity and unique comedic style that have defined his rise in the comedy world.

Tony Hinchcliffe's early days in the comedy scene and his journey to becoming an established performer

From the outset, Hinchcliffe embraced diverse experiences in the comedy scene, taking risks that eventually paid off in his career.

Hinchcliffe's experience performing in diverse comedy shows and venues, including predominantly Black audiences, which prepared him for high-pressure roasting events

Hinchcliffe cut his teeth in a variety of comedy venues, notably recalling a performance at an "all black show" at the Egyptian movie theater, which he described as intensely local and intimidating. These experiences proved valuable, with Hinchcliffe becoming one of the few white comedians able to thrive in diverse settings, setting the stage for his future in high-pressure roast events.

Hinchcliffe's persistence and dedication to honing his craft over 17 years, despite not initially receiving opportunities from mainstream outlets

Despite early challenges, such as long-term mismanagement and a lack of opportunities from mainstream outlets, Hinchcliffe's dedication never wavered. Celebrating 17 years of stand-up, including weathering a cancellation and achieving high-level performances at venues like the Staples Center, Hinchcliffe's career exhibits a persistence and passion for comedy that goes beyond the norm.

Hinchcliffe's unique comedic style and approach to roasting

His approach to stand-up and roasting have made Hinchcliffe a distinct voice in the comedy world.

Hinchcliffe's mastery of short, impactful jokes and his ability to rapidly deliver punchlines

Hinchcliffe has honed the art of delivering short, impactful jokes, captivating audiences and peers alike. His quick delivery and sharp wit were highlighted during an episode of "Kill Tony" by Tom Segura, who noted Hinchcliffe's natural talent for comedy improvisation.

Hinchcliffe's strategic use of physicality and stage presence to enhance his roas ...

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Tony Hinchcliffe's comedy career and rise to prominence

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • High-pressure roasting events are comedic performances where comedians engage in a form of comedy known as "roasting," where they humorously insult or mock a specific individual or group in a playful and exaggerated manner. These events often require quick thinking, sharp wit, and the ability to deliver punchlines on the spot, as the humor is based on clever and often edgy jokes. Roasting events can be intense and challenging, as comedians need to navigate the fine line between humor and offense while entertaining the audience. Successful performances at these events can elevate a comedian's reputation and standing within the comedy community.
  • Mismanagement in the comedy industry can involve issues like poor career guidance, lack of proper representation, or mishandling of opportunities by agents or managers. This can lead to comedians facing challenges in securing gigs, getting exposure, or advancing their careers effectively. Mismanagement can hinder a comedian's growth and success in the industry, impacting their ability to navigate the competitive landscape of comedy.
  • "Kill Tony" is a live podcast where aspiring comedians perform one-minute sets then receive feedback and humorous critiques from a panel of established comedians, including Tony Hinchcliffe. The show provides a platform for up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills and receive guidance in a supportive yet entertaining environment. It has gained popularity for its raw and unfiltered approach to comedy critique, offering a mix of constructive feedback and comedic banter. "Kill Tony" has become a significan ...

Counterarguments

  • While embracing diverse experiences is commendable, it's important to recognize that not all comedians have equal access to varied venues and audiences, which can impact their ability to gain similar exposure and experience.
  • Performing in front of predominantly Black audiences as a white comedian can be complex, and it's crucial to approach such situations with cultural sensitivity and awareness to avoid perpetuating stereotypes or causing offense.
  • Persistence and dedication are important, but success in comedy also often involves a degree of luck, timing, and networking, which are not mentioned in the text.
  • Mastery of short, impactful jokes and rapid delivery are not the only comedic styles that lead to success; long-form storytelling and slower-paced humor also have their place and audience in the comedy world.
  • The use of physicality and stage presence can enhance a performance, but it's not a necessary component for all comedians; some may rely more on verbal wit or observational humor.
  • Mentoring ...

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Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Performing comedy in large venues and high-profile shows

Tony Hinchcliffe's ascension in the realm of live comedy, particularly in grand venues such as Madison Square Garden, provides a study in managing the pressure and expectations that come with larger audiences and prominent events.

Hinchcliffe's experience navigating the challenges of delivering live comedy in arenas and major events

Hinchcliffe recognizes the terror that comes with performing in expansive environments, calling out the commonality of less experienced comedians faltering when faced with the enormity of such stages. He recounts his own adjustments in pacing and delivery, learning to use the extension in laughter reverberation to his advantage, allowing him more time to prepare for his next question or joke.

His peer, Tom Segura, echoes this sentiment, recalling a petrifying experience when faced with a large arena crowd early in his career. Hinchcliffe observes that his colleagues often opt for a timing that solicits longer, more pronounced applause breaks. In contrast, Hinchcliffe's distinct strategy employs a rapid-fire approach, keeping pace with expectations of both the live audience and viewers at home.

Leveraging his experience to excel where other comedians may struggle with the high-pressure environment

By performing practice runs at comparable venues like The Forum, Hinchcliffe primes himself for the demands of headline-worthy locations. He credits such rehearsals with honing his craft, tailoring his routine to accommodate the unique dynamics of voluminous crowds.

Hinchcliffe's involvement in the Netflix roast of Tom Brady and the prestigious nature of the opportunity

Hinchcliffe's initial struggle to secure a spot on the roast and the behind-the-scenes efforts to make it happen

Hinchcliffe candidly admits to the difficulty of booking high-profile shows, stating that despite personal approval from Tom Brady, he encountered resistance when it came to finalizing his participation. This struggle is also underpinned by his late inclusion in the event, hinting at considerable behind-the-scenes maneuvering to secure his presence.

Hinchcliffe's strategic approach to tailoring his performance for the unique format and constraints of the roast

In preparation for the Netflix roast of Tom Brady, Hinchcliffe opted for caution and strategic gameplay. He safeguarded his premium material during rehearsals to prevent any preemptive exposure that could risk the potency of his performance. Taking a calculative measure, he wrote his opening lines in the moment at the ...

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Performing comedy in large venues and high-profile shows

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Performing comedy in large venues and high-profile shows presents unique challenges such as managing the pressure of bigger audiences and prominent events. Comedians often need to adjust their pacing and delivery to account for the size of the venue and the audience's response time. Strategies like rapid-fire delivery or timing for longer applause breaks can be employed to engage both live and remote audiences effectively. Practice runs at similar venues help comedians like Tony Hinchcliffe prepare for the demands of headline-worthy locations.
  • In a roast event like the Netflix roast of Tom Brady, comedians craft jokes that humorously mock the guest of honor and other participants. They carefully tailor their material to suit the roast's format and audience expectations. Comedians often engage in strategic planning to ensure their jokes are well-received and impactful. Adaptability is key, as they may need to adjust their lines on-the-fly based on the reactions of the audience and other guests.
  • In the competitive world of high-profile shows, comedians often face challenges in securing spots due to factors like industry politics, personal connections, and the overall lineup's dynamics. Negotiations behind the scenes can involve various stakeholders, including event organizers, talent managers, and the featured celebrity or host. Securing a spot in such shows may require persistence, strategic positioning, and sometimes last-minute adjustments to accommodate unforeseen changes. The process can be complex and opaque, with comedians needing to navigate a mix of talent, timing, and industry relationships to secure coveted opportunities.
  • In live comedy, comedic timing and delivery vary based on the size of the venue and the audience. Larger venues require adjustments in pacing to allow for laughter to reach the performer, influencing the timing of jokes. Comedians may tailor their delivery to suit the dynamics of expansive crow ...

Counterarguments

  • While Hinchcliffe's rapid-fire approach is highlighted, it could be argued that this style may not always allow for the audience to fully process and appreciate each joke, potentially diminishing the impact of his set.
  • The practice of safeguarding premium material during rehearsals, though strategic, might also prevent Hinchcliffe from receiving valuable feedback that could refine his performance.
  • Hinchcliffe's adaptability is praised, but one could argue that improvising opening lines at the table during a roast could also lead to inconsistency or a lack of cohesion in his overall performance.
  • The text implies that performing in large venues is an unequivocal marker of success, but some might argue that smaller venues can offer a more intimate and rewarding experience for both the comedian and the audience.
  • The emphasis on high-profile events like the Tom Brady roast might overshadow the importance of grassroots comedy scenes and the role they play in a comedian's development and connection with their audience.
  • While Hinchcliffe's desire for independence is noted, the text does not explore the potential downsides of moving away from H ...

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Tony Hinchcliffe ROASTS The Bears | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

The creative and logistics behind the Netflix roast of Tom Brady

The Netflix roast of Tom Brady was a collaborative venture that involved a delicate balance of creative control and meticulous preparation. From the writing team to the roastee himself, every aspect of the roast was carefully considered to maximize comedic impact.

The collaborative nature of the roast's production and the importance of the writing team

The production of the roast was truly a group effort. Hinchcliffe, for instance, had to persuade the director and supportive colleagues, Jerron and Benji, that his idea for movement on stage was essential for his best performance, illustrating the participants' input on creative freedom.

Similarly, comedians Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer contributed their own angle to the jokes, which was accepted for its novelty. The script went through iterations, with a punch-up script returned from the production team, pointing to collaborative writing processes.

Veteran roast producer Jeff Ross shaped the tone and content of the show significantly. Tony Hinchcliffe noted that Jeff Ross was involved in planning his act, marking Ross’s substantial impact on the nuanced success of the roasts. Jeff Ross's grasp of the form made him instrumental in bringing roasting into current comedic culture.

Benji Aflalo and Jerron Horton were also mentioned as writers, emphasizing the collaborative essence of creating the roast with an experienced team. The presence of esteemed writers like Mike Gibbons and Mike Lawrence was acknowledged; Kreischer pointed out their vital contributions and their expertise which surpasses that of performers like himself.

Tom Brady's role, as the subject of the roast, was also important. He appeared receptive to the comedy and worked with writers, suggesting his input and potential last-minute changes in response to his preferences.

Hinchcliffe's personal preparation and mindset going into the high-stakes roast

Tony Hinchcliffe exemplified extreme dedication, assembling a small team as if he were preparing for a full-length show. His obsession with preparing was indicative of his drive to excel. He mentioned activ ...

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The creative and logistics behind the Netflix roast of Tom Brady

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The production team for the Netflix roast of Tom Brady included comedians like Tony Hinchcliffe, Tom Segura, and Bert Kreischer who contributed to the writing and performance aspects. Veteran roast producer Jeff Ross played a significant role in shaping the overall tone and content of the show. Writers such as Benji Aflalo, Jerron Horton, Mike Gibbons, and Mike Lawrence were also involved in creating the roast, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the scenes. Tom Brady, as the roastee, worked with the writers and performers to ensure the comedic content aligned with his preferences and the overall vision of the roast.
  • During a roast event, comedic timing is crucial for delivering jokes effectively and maximizing their impact. Comedians must be aware of the flow of the event and adjust their delivery based on the reactions of the audience and other performers. Strategic choices involve decisions on pacing, content selection, and responses to the atmosphere of the event, all aimed at creating a cohesive and entertaining experience for the audience. These choices can include adapting material on the spot, altering the delivery speed, and maintaining the overall rhythm of the roast.
  • In a roast, individuals like Tony Hinchcliffe, Jeff Ross, and the writers play crucial roles. Tony Hinchcliffe, as a comedian, prepares and delivers jokes aimed at humorously mocking the roastee. Jeff Ross, a veteran roast producer, guides the overall tone and content of the roast, ensuring it stays entertaining and respectful. The writers contribute by crafting jokes and refining the script to maximize comedic impact, working closely with the performers to create a successful and memorable roast event.
  • In collaborative writing for the Netflix roast of Tom Brady, various comedians like Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer contributed their unique perspectives and jokes to the script, enhancing its humor and diversity. The script underwent multiple revi ...

Counterarguments

  • While collaboration is highlighted, it's possible that some individuals' contributions were overshadowed by more prominent figures in the production.
  • Persuading the director and colleagues for creative control could potentially disrupt the unified vision of the show if not managed properly.
  • The unique angles contributed by Segura and Kreischer might not align with everyone's sense of humor, possibly alienating certain audience segments.
  • Jeff Ross's significant influence on the tone and content could lead to a lack of diversity in comedic styles, as his approach may dominate the show.
  • The vital roles of the writers mentioned could be perceived as undervaluing the spontaneous elements that comedians bring to a live roast.
  • Tom Brady's receptiveness and collaboration with writers might compromise the traditional roast format, which often thrives on unfiltered and unexpected humor.
  • Hinchcliffe's meticulous preparation, while commendable, might result in a performance that feels over-rehearsed and lacks the organic feel of a live roast.
  • Strategic choices to maintain the program's rhythm could mean missing opportunities for memorable, off-the-cuff interactions that often become highlights of a roast.
  • Adapting the routine base ...

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The comedic performances and audience reactions at the roast

Tony Hinchcliffe and Bert Kreischer discuss the performances and audience engagement at a comedy roast, highlighting the exceptional acts by Nikki Glaser and Hinchcliffe himself.

Nikki Glaser's standout performance and her ability to consistently deliver impactful roasts

Hinchcliffe predicted that Nikki Glaser was set for a standout performance, and she did not disappoint. He described her ability to "decimate the room" and set high expectations for other performers. Glaser's consistent style throughout her career was evident; she focused on continuity and delivered short, powerhouse jokes. Kreischer and Hinchcliffe both agree that Glaser's writing humorously connects like a "model train," where everything flows seamlessly. She amplified her already established roast performance style, which was met with an enthusiastic audience response, setting a high bar for the night.

The audience's enthusiastic response to Glaser's roast, setting a high bar for the other performers

The audience reacted positively to Nikki Glaser's performance, acknowledging her mastery of the roast concept through her relentless, yet beautifully measured, delivery. This positive reaction reverberated throughout the event, raising the stakes for subsequent performers.

Hinchcliffe's dominant performance and the recognition of his peers

Hinchcliffe also left a mark with his unique and dynamic performance, earning the respect of his fellow comedians.

Hinchcliffe's ability to navigate the unique format and constraints of the roast, delivering a rapid-fire, high-energy set

Tony Hinchcliffe demonstrated his mastery of roasting with a rapid-fire, high-energy set, effectively keeping up with the momentum set by Glaser. He creatively navigated the format and constraints of the roast, asserting his need for freedom with statements like "let me cook." Hinchcliffe ingeniously walked the dais during the roast, which traditionally was a desk piece, showing his need to perform dynamically and respond to the shifting dynamics on stage.

The positive reaction from the audience ...

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The comedic performances and audience reactions at the roast

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A comedy roast is an event where a guest of honor is subjected to jokes and mock insults from a group of comedians. The format typically involves each comedian taking turns to roast the guest in a humorous and often exaggerated manner. Roasts are known for their edgy and boundary-pushing humor, with the goal of entertaining the audience while also showing respect and camaraderie towards the roastee. The roast format allows comedians to showcase their wit, creativity, and improvisational skills in delivering sharp and funny insults in a lighthearted and celebratory atmosphere.
  • Nikki Glaser is known for her sharp and relentless roasting style, delivering short, impactful jokes consistently. Tony Hinchcliffe is recognized for his rapid-fire, high-energy sets and his ability to navigate the unique format of roasts creatively. Tom Segura is known for his observational humor and deadpan delivery, often commenting on everyday life with a dry wit. Bert Kreischer is famous for his storytelling and self-deprecating humor, often sharing outrageous and hilarious anecdotes from his life.
  • In a comedy roast event, comedians humorously insult or "roast" a guest of honor in a lighthearted and exaggerated manner. The audience expects edgy and boundary-pushing humor, often involving personal jabs and playful mockery. Performers aim to entertain by showcasing their wit and comedic timing while navigating the fine line between humor and offense. Roasts typically involve a mix of prepared material and spontaneous reactions to create a lively and engaging atmosphere.
  • Walking the dais during a roast is significant as it breaks the traditional format where comedians typically stay seated behind a desk. This action showcases a comedian's desire to engage dynamically with the audience and adapt to the evolving dynamics on ...

Counterarguments

...

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