Ep 170: Brian Simpson & Joe List
Dive into the intricate world of stand-up comedy with "We Might Be Drunk," where Sam Morril and Mark Normand, alongside guests Brian Simpson and Joe List, unpack the nuanced realities faced by comedians today. From detailing the highs and lows of late-night TV appearances to dissecting the comedy scenes across different cities, these seasoned comics bring their candid insight to a discussion brimming with industry knowledge. Whether it's embracing the disruptive potential of heckling or the creative process behind developing razor-sharp comedy material, listeners are offered a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the world of comedy tick.
In this rich episode, our hosts and their guests traverse topics that touch upon the shifting landscapes of comedy consumption, from the living room TV set to the boundless digital world, highlighting the changing tides of platforms and mediums. At the core of their conversation is a deep appreciation for the comedic greats who have paved the way, as well as a recognition of comedy’s intricate dance with culture, race, and identity. Witness as these comics dissect their art form, passionately debating the role of humor in today's society and the crucial balance between remaining true to their comedic roots and adapting to the ever-evolving stage of digital media.
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1-Page Summary
Comedian Experiences on Late Night Talk Shows and TV Sets
Comedians juxtapose their unique experiences of performing on late night TV shows. Richard Lewis's episode on "Conan" with Johnny Knoxville is a standout moment, signifying the unpredictable nature of such gigs, while Brian Simpson reveals his skepticism about the effectiveness of late-night sets for a comedian's career, acknowledging the challenge of fitting his edgier material into the more sanitized TV format. Joe List and Sam Morril contrastingly see it as an opportunity to reach broader audiences. Despite this, Simpson prefers platforms like Netflix, where his comedy can remain unfiltered.
Comedy Scenes Across Different Cities
Sam Morril, Mark Normand, Joe List, and Brian Simpson single out Boston's comedy scene for its rich history and the rawness it brings out in comics, with Morril choosing to tape a special at the Wilbur to capture that essence. Chicago's comedy history shines through Second City's legacy and comedians like John Mulaney. Mark Normand tags Phoenix as ideal for developing material. The Mothership in Austin is hailed as a prominent venue affecting comedians' selling power, with noted performances from Simpson and interactions that highlight its importance to the comedy community. The club's influence extends to Netflix specials, evidencing its reputational might in the comedy circuit.
Dealing With Heckling, Comedy Club Issues and Cancel Culture
Comedians reckon with the challenge of balancing political correctness with humor in comedy clubs, as the cancellation of Kurt Metzger's performance in Seattle underscores the friction between comedic expression and societal norms. This incident exemplifies the larger debate on cancel culture's role in the comedy industry and the precariousness of the line between humor and offense.
The Process of Developing Stand-up Comedy Material
Developing stand-up material is an evolution involving constant refinement and mutual feedback among comics. Brian Simpson discusses a new bit on the absurdities of societal norms around breastfeeding, playing with legalities and life experiences. Joe List, Sam Morril, and Mark Normand engage in a creative exchange, brainstorming punchlines for their material. They debate ideas, adding tags and modifying their stories, evidencing how collaboration is critical in sharpening the comedic craft.
The Lives and Influences of Dead and Legendary Comedians
The comedic mastery of the late Mitch Hedberg and recently departed Richard Lewis are held in high regard, with reverence for their profound influence on the art form. The discussion encompasses how their legacies live on, impacting upcoming comedians and reflecting the enduring respect that exists within the comedian community for their contributions to comedy.
Comedy's Relation to Different Cultures, Race and Identity
Comedians navigate the terrain of cultures, race, and identity with humor that can sometimes challenge social perceptions or stereotypes. British comedy stands out with its own style, often invoking reflections on cultural and historical relationships. Such engagement can lead to controversial stereotypes, pushing comedians to confront these themes with sensitivity and introspection.
The Shift of Comedy Across Different Platforms and Media
The transformation of comedy from classic forms like TV and movies to digital avenues like YouTube and memes marks a significant industry trend. Comedians reveal how platforms define the comedic landscape; Sam Morril's YouTube success versus HBO's rejection exemplifies this shift. As comedy alters with evolving media, podcasts emerge as the new frontier, replacing the conventional TV sitcom. Yet, the necessity for authenticity in humor persists, with the digital age valuing genuine engagement over mere celebrity status.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Cancel culture in comedy involves the public backlash and consequences faced by comedians for jokes or performances deemed offensive or inappropriate by certain groups. This can lead to shows being canceled, comedians losing opportunities, or facing criticism for their material. The debate centers on the balance between free speech, artistic expression, and societal sensitivities, highlighting the tension between pushing boundaries for humor and respecting social norms. The incident involving Kurt Metzger's canceled performance in Seattle exemplifies the complexities of navigating humor in a culture increasingly sensitive to issues of representation, stereotypes, and offense.
- In stand-up comedy, developing material involves refining jokes through continuous feedback and discussion among comedians. Collaboration plays a crucial role in enhancing comedic content by brainstorming punchlines, adding tags, and modifying stories. Comedians engage in creative exchanges to sharpen their craft, debating ideas to improve the quality of their material. This collaborative process helps comedians test and fine-tune their jokes before presenting them to audiences.
- Mitch Hedberg and Richard Lewis are revered comedians known for their unique styles and contributions to stand-up comedy. Hedberg was celebrated for his surreal and one-liner comedy, influencing many with his offbeat humor. Richard Lewis, known for his neurotic and self-deprecating comedy, has left a lasting impact on the comedy community through his candid and introspective performances. Their legacies continue to inspire and shape the work of current and upcoming comedians, showcasing the enduring influence of their comedic artistry.
- Comedy often reflects cultural nuances, including race and identity, which can challenge societal norms. British comedy has a distinct style that delves into historical and cultural relationships, sometimes using stereotypes for humor. Comedians may confront controversial themes with sensitivity and introspection, aiming to provoke thought and challenge perceptions. This engagement with cultural diversity adds depth and complexity to comedic narratives.
- The shift of comedy across different platforms reflects how comedians are adapting to changing audience preferences. Traditional TV shows are being complemented by digital platforms like YouTube and podcasts, offering comedians new avenues to showcase their humor. This shift highlights the evolving media landscape and the importance of authenticity in connecting with audiences in the digital age. Comedians are exploring these platforms to reach wider audiences and engage with fans in more direct and interactive ways.
Counterarguments
- While late-night TV gigs are unpredictable, some comedians might argue that the structure and exposure provided by these shows are beneficial for building a disciplined performance style and gaining mainstream recognition.
- Although Brian Simpson prefers platforms like Netflix for unfiltered content, others might argue that late-night TV can be a valuable stepping stone for comedians to build their brand and attract a diverse audience before moving to more niche platforms.
- The view that late-night TV is an opportunity to reach broader audiences might be countered by the argument that the fragmented media landscape means that late-night TV no longer has the same reach it once did, and social media or other digital platforms might be more effective.
- While Boston's comedy scene is praised, some might argue that other cities with less historical recognition also have vibrant and innovative comedy scenes that contribute significantly to the art form.
- The significance of The Mothership in Austin might be challenged by the perspective that there are many influential comedy clubs around the world, each with its own impact on the comedy community and the development of comedians' careers.
- The challenge of balancing political correctness with humor might be seen by some as an essential evolution of comedy, ensuring that it remains inclusive and reflective of societal changes rather than a limitation on free expression.
- The cancellation of Kurt Metzger's show could be defended on the grounds that venues and audiences have the right to choose the type of content they support, which can lead to a more diverse and respectful comedy environment.
- The collaborative process of developing stand-up material might be critiqued by those who believe that comedy is a deeply personal art form and that the best material comes from individual experiences and insights rather than group brainstorming.
- While the comedic mastery of Mitch Hedberg and Richard Lewis is revered, some might argue that there are many other comedians with different styles who are equally influential and deserving of recognition.
- The uniqueness of British comedy might be challenged by those who feel that comedy is universal and that focusing too much on cultural differences can overlook the commonalities that make humor relatable across borders.
- The shift to digital platforms like YouTube and memes might be criticized by those who believe that the depth and nuance of comedy can be lost in the shorter, more fragmented content that often dominates these platforms.
- The emergence of podcasts as a new frontier in comedy could be seen as a trend rather than a replacement for traditional TV sitcoms, with each medium offering different opportunities and challenges for comedians.
- The emphasis on authenticity in humor in the digital age might be countered by the argument that performance and persona have always been integral to comedy, and that what matters is the quality of the humor, not necessarily the genuineness of the engagement.
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Comedian Experiences on Late Night Talk Shows and TV Sets
A conversation among comedians explores the nuanced experiences of comedy gigs on television, detailing the memorable moments of Richard Lewis and Brian Simpson's views on the nature of performing on late night TV.
Discussing Richard Lewis's appearance and prior media moments on late night shows like Conan
Mark Normand recalls the time Richard Lewis made an appearance on "Conan," particularly an episode with Johnny Knoxville, where Lewis's storytelling - this time involving Shaq - garnered strong reactions from Conan O'Brien. The hosts encourage the audience to look up the clip, pointing to its status as a memorable TV moment. Additionally, they reminisce about an episode from "Curb Your Enthusiasm" that featured Richard Lewis at a Lakers practice.
Sharing Brian Simpson's perspective on doing late night sets as a comedian
His reservations about tailoring his comedy and doubts about relating to those audiences
Brian Simpson shares his skepticism about the value of doing late night sets, hinting at his management's lack of enthusiasm about such appearances being defining for his career. In contrast, Joe List views performing on late night positively, noting how it can introduce a comedian to different audiences and has varying impact on viewership depending on the show.
Sam Morril also jumps in, reflecting on the collective aspiration he and his comedian friends shared earlier in their careers to get on shows like "Conan" or "Letterman."
However, Simpson is candid about his uncertainty regar ...
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Comedian Experiences on Late Night Talk Shows and TV Sets
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Brian Simpson is skeptical about the value of doing late night sets because he feels uncertain about how his comedy style aligns with the expectations of late night TV audiences. He expresses doubts about tailoring his material to fit the constraints of these shows, as he believes it may compromise the authenticity and humor of his act. Simpson's reservations stem from concerns about maintaining the integrity of his comedy while navigating the selection process for late night appearances. He prefers platforms like Netflix where he can showcase his content without having to alter it to suit the specific requirements of late night television.
- When comedians prepare for late night TV appearances, they often need to select material that fits the show's tone and audience. Show producers work closely with comedians to review and approve the chosen jokes and stories. This process involves discussions and negotiations to ensure the content aligns with the show's standards and format. Comedians may need to adapt their material to suit the specific requirements of the late night program they are appearing on.
- Brian Simpson expressed reservations about his comedy's suitability for late night television due to the constraints and expectations of the format. He felt that his material, after careful consideration, did not align well with the typical content showcased on late night shows. Simpson was concerned that altering his comedy to fit the late night TV mold might compromise the authenticity and humor of his act. As a result, he preferred platforms like Netflix where he could present his content without having to conform to the ...
Counterarguments
- While Mark Normand highlights a memorable moment of Richard Lewis on "Conan," one could argue that such moments, though entertaining, may not necessarily contribute to a comedian's long-term career growth or artistic fulfillment.
- The mention of Richard Lewis's appearance on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" could be seen as leveraging his established reputation rather than a stepping stone for emerging talent.
- Brian Simpson's skepticism about late night sets could be countered by the argument that these appearances, while not definitive, can still serve as valuable exposure for comedians, especially for those who are adept at tailoring their material without compromising their comedic voice.
- Joe List's positive view of late night performances might be overly optimistic, as the actual impact on a comedian's career can vary greatly and is not guaranteed.
- The aspiration to appear on shows like "Conan" or "Letterman" shared by Sam Morril and his friends could be critiqued for potentially overlooking other equally valuable or more suitable platforms for comedy.
- Brian Simpson's uncertainty about fitting into late night television might be challenged by suggesting that adapting to different formats is a skill that can benefit comedians, allowing them to reach wider and more diverse audiences.
- The difficulty Brian Simpson faced in finding suitable material for late ...
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Comedy Scenes Across Different Cities
Comedians Sam Morril, Mark Normand, Joe List, and Brian Simpson share insights into comedy scenes across different cities, and the influence of specific venues like The Mothership in Austin.
Commenting on the comedy scenes in various cities like Boston, Los Angeles, Seattle, Austin, etc.
Boston's Comedy Scene
Sam Morril chose to tape a special at the Wilbur in Boston to avoid the distractions of showbiz people in Los Angeles. This decision underlines the comedy scene in Boston, where there is a strong connection to his family and roots, and highlights Boston's comedy scene contrast to Los Angeles. The city is recognized for producing comics like Patrice O'Neal and Joe Rogan. The comedic influence of Boston's scene is attributed to a sense of repression and the humorous release of that tension.
Influences and Venues in Other Cities
Comedy in Chicago is also noteworthy, with Second City having fostered talents like Chris Farley and Dan Aykroyd. Comedians like John Mulaney and Hannibal Buress contribute to Chicago's notable comedy history. In Phoenix, Mark Normand plans to develop material, citing the city as a great comedy town, while in Seattle and Austin, the scenes are not specifically characterized in the conversation.
Talking about the comedy club The Mothership and its impact in Austin
The Mothership, a comedy club in Austin, is central to the discussion as it's seen as amplifying a performer's selling power and drawing notable comedians like Dan Soder and Hannibal Buress. Mark Normand had a spontaneously organized show there that sold out quickly, indicating its significant draw. The enthusiastic Austin comedy audiences are noted for their dedication to comedy, which differs from the more casual or celebratory audiences in other venue ...
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Comedy Scenes Across Different Cities
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Mothership in Austin is a significant comedy club known for amplifying performers' selling power and attracting renowned comedians. It has become a hub for comedy in Austin, drawing enthusiastic audiences dedicated to the comedy scene. The club's impact is evident in how it hosts successful shows and serves as a venue for launching comedy specials, showcasing its importance in the comedy industry. The unique experiences and atmosphere at The Mothership contribute to its reputation as a standout venue for comedians and audiences alike.
- In Boston's comedy scene, the influence of a sense of repression and the release of tension is a common theme. This dynamic often leads to humor that stems from navigating or addressing societal constraints and personal struggles. Comedians in Boston may draw inspiration from these themes to create material that resonates with audiences through a mix of wit, satire, and relatability. The city's comedic style is shaped by this interplay between acknowledging constraints and finding humor in them.
- Second City is a renowned improvisational comedy theater based in Chicago. It has a long history of nurturing comedic talent, with notable alumni including Chris Farley and Dan Aykroyd. These comedians honed their skills at Second City before achieving fame in the entertainment industry. The theater's unique approach to comedy training and performance has ...
Counterarguments
- Boston's comedy scene may be contrasted with Los Angeles, but it's also possible that LA's scene offers unique opportunities and exposure that Boston cannot match due to its larger industry presence.
- While Boston has produced notable comics, it's important to recognize that successful comedians come from a variety of cities and backgrounds, not just Boston.
- The idea that Boston's comedic influence is due to a sense of repression and tension release could be an oversimplification; humor can stem from a multitude of cultural and social factors.
- Second City in Chicago is indeed a legendary venue, but other improv and sketch comedy schools like iO Theater and Annoyance Theatre have also contributed significantly to the comedy scene.
- Phoenix being a great comedy town is subjective and other comedians might have different experiences or opinions about the city's comedy scene.
- The lack of specific characterization of Seattle and Austin's comedy scenes might overlook the unique aspects and local talent present in those cities.
- The Mothership's impact on a performer's selling power could be influenced by other factors such as the performer's existing popularity or the marketing efforts behind their shows.
- The assertion that Austin audiences are more dedicated than those in other cities could be challenged by the idea that audience dedication varies and is not necessarily tied to a specific location.
- The success of Brian Simpson's shows at The Mothership might not solely be due to the venue but also to his own talent and the quality of his performance.
- ...
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Dealing With Heckling, Comedy Club Issues and Cancel Culture
Discussing comedy clubs that try to be politically correct and inclusive at the expense of humor
Comedy clubs across the nation are increasingly finding themselves at the crossroads of humor and political correctness. As societal emphasis on inclusivity grows, these establishments are tasked with navigating the complex waters of what is deemed acceptable, often to the angst of comedians and patrons who argue that the essence of comedy is to push boundaries.
Talking about the example of the Seattle club that cancelled Kurt Metzger's performance
A poignant example of this tension is the situation that unfolded with the Seattle comedy club that canceled Kurt Metzger's performance. The club chose to cancel ...
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Dealing With Heckling, Comedy Club Issues and Cancel Culture
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Cancel culture in the context of the comedy industry involves the public backlash and social media-driven movements that aim to hold comedians accountable for their words or actions, often resulting in performance cancellations, loss of opportunities, or reputational damage. This phenomenon has sparked debates on free speech, artistic expression, and the boundaries of humor in a society that is increasingly sensitive to issues of discrimination, stereotypes, and offense. Comedians face challenges in navigating this landscape, balancing the desire to entertain with the need to av ...
Counterarguments
- Comedy clubs have a responsibility to create a safe and welcoming environment for all patrons, which may sometimes require setting boundaries on content.
- Political correctness can be seen as an evolution of social norms, and comedy can adapt to reflect these changes while still being funny.
- Inclusivity does not necessarily limit humor; it can also enrich it by bringing diverse perspectives and experiences into comedy.
- The decision to cancel a performance, such as Kurt Metzger's, may be based on broader business considerations or community standards, not solely on political correctness.
- Cancel culture can be viewed as a form of consumer feedback, where audiences hold performers accountable for th ...
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The Process of Developing Stand-up Comedy Material
The development of stand-up comedy material is a creative and iterative process. Comedians like Sam Morril and Brian Simpson continuously refine their jokes, share new ideas, and workshop their bits to perfect their punchlines.
Sharing and workshopping ideas for new comedy bits and jokes
Brian Simpson shares his bit focused on women and breastfeeding
Brian Simpson is honing a new bit that deals with the societal regulation of viewing women’s breasts. He highlights the absurdity of being able to legally view breasts only at the age of 18, yet babies have unrestricted access through breastfeeding. Simpson speculates on the odd legal implications, such as a young genius could theoretically be breastfed on the Harvard campus and it would be completely legal because there are no laws on when you have to stop being breastfed.
His bit also explores the endless possibility of breastfeeding, given that there are no legal limitations on its duration. He jokes about the life of wet nurses and how someone could remember their mother's breast if breastfeeding continues for an unusually long period, pointing out the oddity and humor in the situation.
Joe List shares his bit about a misunderstanding with a gift basket
While Joe List did not provide specific information about his bit regarding a misunderstanding with a gift basket in the provided content, the methods of developing a comedy bit can be presumed to be similar to those of his peers Brian Simpson, Sam Morril, and Mark Normand. Such a scenario could involve workshopping punchlines and tags through banter to turn a simple life event into a humorous and relatable story.
Sam Morril and Mark Normand deliberated potential material on being horny and the aftermath of masturbation. They reflected on how a person’s mindset changes so ...
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The Process of Developing Stand-up Comedy Material
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Brian Simpson's comedy bit on women and breastfeeding humorously explores the societal norms around viewing women's breasts, highlighting the legal contradictions between age restrictions and breastfeeding. He jokes about the lack of legal limitations on breastfeeding duration, discussing the potential absurdities and humor in scenarios where breastfeeding continues for an extended period. Simpson ...
Counterarguments
- The idea that legal absurdities are a rich source of humor in Brian Simpson's bit could be challenged by the perspective that legal nuances are there for important reasons, and humor might oversimplify complex social and legal issues.
- The process of developing a bit about a misunderstanding with a gift basket might not be as straightforward as with other topics, as misunderstandings can be highly context-dependent and might not resonate with all audiences.
- Discussing material on being horny and post-masturbation mindset changes could be seen as reinforcing negative stereotypes or being too crude for some audiences, which might not align with evolving social sensitivities.
- The continuous refinement of jokes might not always lead to better material; some might argue that overworking a bit can lead to losing the original spontaneity and appeal.
- The importance of recording sets as a means to capture fully refined material could be countered by the argument that live performance dynamics can't be fully captured in a recording, ...
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The Lives and Influences of Dead and Legendary Comedians
Sam Morril and Mark Normand pay homage to the comedic genius and lasting legacies of some of the greatest names in the business, discussing the impacts and influences left by the departed legends.
Discussing figures like Richard Pryor, Richard Lewis, Mitch Hedberg, Patrice O'Neal and their impacts on comedy
During their discussion, Morril and Normand reference the late comedian Mitch Hedberg with a sense of reverence, acknowledging how his unique delivery and sharp one-liners continue to inspire laughter and stand-up technique even after his passing. They touch upon the sad news of Richard Lewis’s passing, choosing to celebrate his life by remembering a particular comedic scene he was a part of. Their conversation serves not just as a remembrance but also as an apparent sign of respect for the craft that these titans of comedy helped to shape.
In addition to paying their respe ...
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The Lives and Influences of Dead and Legendary Comedians
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Clarifications
- Richard Pryor was known for his raw and honest storytelling, tackling social issues with humor. Richard Lewis was recognized for his neurotic and self-deprecating style of comedy. Mitch Hedberg was famous for his surreal one-liners and deadpan delivery. Patrice O'Neal was celebrated for his fearless and unfiltered approach to discussing race, relationships, and societal norms.
- The Just for Laughs comedy festival is an annual event held in Montreal, Canada, known as one of the largest and most prestigious comedy festivals in the world. It serves as a platform for both established and up-and-coming comedians to showcase their talent, network with industry professionals, and gain exposure. Being selected as a "new face" at the festival is considered a signific ...
Counterarguments
...
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Comedy's Relation to Different Cultures, Race and Identity
Comedy often walks a fine line when it relates to different cultures, race, and identity. It serves as a mirror to society, reflecting and sometimes challenging our perceptions, stereotypes, and the use of accents.
Talking about racial perceptions, stereotypes and accents in relation to comedy
Comedians have long used racial perceptions and stereotypes as the basis for humor. This comedic tool, while sometimes seen as a means of social commentary, can reinforce harmful stereotypes if not handled with care. Comedians often employ different accents as part of their routines to depict characters from various backgrounds. This can sometimes lead to controversy, especially if the portrayal is deemed disrespectful or perpetuates negative stereotypes.
Commenting on British comedy and cultural differences
British comedy, in particular, is known for its unique sense of humor, often described as dry, witty, and sometimes laden with sarcasm. Many British comedians draw on the cultural differences within the United Kingdom, poking fun at t ...
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Comedy's Relation to Different Cultures, Race and Identity
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Clarifications
- British comedy is known for its unique humor, characterized by dry wit, sarcasm, and irony. Comedians often draw on cultural differences within the UK, including accents and local customs, for comedic material. British humor can touch on the historical relationship between the UK and its former colonies, highlighting shared history and cultural misunderstandings. This comedy style often reflects the multicultural makeup of the UK while also addressing societal tensions.
- Using accents in comedy can be controversial as it involves mimicking the way people from different backgrounds speak. While some see it as a way to add humor and create characters, others argue it can perpetuate stereotypes or be seen as disrespectful. The key is in how the accent is used - whether it's done with sensitivity and respect or if it relies on harmful stereotypes for laughs. Comedians need to navigate this carefully to ensure their humor doesn't reinforce negative perceptions or offend audiences.
- Postcolonial relationships in comedy often explore the dynamics between former colonizers and colonized nations, highlighting historical power imbalances and cultural clashes through humor. This can involve satirizing the legacies of colonialism, addressing stereotypes, and navigating the complexities of postcolonial identities in a comedic context. Comedy may use these themes to shed light on the lingering effects of colonization, challenge dominant narratives, and prompt reflection on the shared ...
Counterarguments
- While comedy can reflect societal perceptions, it can also be argued that it often relies on exaggeration and does not always provide an accurate reflection of society or contribute meaningfully to challenging stereotypes.
- The use of racial perceptions and stereotypes in comedy might be defended as a form of artistic expression or as a way to bring difficult topics into the open, encouraging discussion and reflection rather than reinforcing negative stereotypes.
- The use of accents in comedy can be seen as a celebration of diversity and a recognition of the richness of different cultures, rather than being inherently disrespectful or controversial.
- British comedy's unique sense of humor might not be universally appreciated or understood, and what is considered dry, witty, and sarcastic to some may come across as offensive or simply unfunny to others.
- The focus on cultural differences within the UK in British comedy could be seen as a way to foster unity through humor, by laughing at oneself and one's own idiosyncrasi ...
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The Shift of Comedy Across Different Platforms and Media
Normand, Simpson, Morril, and List discuss the migration of comedy from traditional mediums like TV and films to digital platforms like YouTube and the growing influence of memes.
Discussing the changes from comedy on TV and movies to YouTube videos and memes
Observing how formulas for late night TV comedy are evolving
Comedy movies are not as edgy as they used to be, according to Normand, who sees the internet and particularly memes, as a new frontier filling that gap of edgy content. Memes, Simpson suggests, have become a collective humor of all humanity, opening the doors for even non-comics to occasionally strike gold with humor. However, this democratization has led to issues with joke theft as bits are sometimes turned into memes.
Morril and Normand note the decline in comedy movie production, which signifies a shift away from traditional media. Simpson recognizes that memes allow the broader public to contribute to humor in ways that were not possible with the more structured formats of the past.
Morril talks about how the rejection of his special by HBO, and its subsequent success on YouTube, highlights the changes in the business of comedy distribution and viewer engagement. He and Normand reflect on the bygone era of sitcoms launching comedy careers and the lucrative holding deals of the '90s—a model that has vanished today.
Brian Simpson points out that the purpose of late-night television has changed with the times; with content consumed at any hour, the "late-night" appeal diminishes. Joe List contrasts today's corporate and politically correct late-night programming with past edgier content, and they note how podcasts have taken over as the new boun ...
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The Shift of Comedy Across Different Platforms and Media
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Clarifications
- In the entertainment industry, holding deals in the '90s were contracts offered by networks or studios to talent, securing their exclusive services for a set period. These deals guaranteed a certain level of income and often included provisions for developing projects or appearing in specific shows. They were common in the television industry as a way to lock in promising talent and ensure a pipeline of content creation. Holding deals were a way for networks to invest in talent and potentially groom them for stardom.
- Late-night television's purpose has evolved due to changes in how audiences consume content, with viewers now able to access entertainment at any time, reducing the traditional appeal of "late-night" programming. This shift has led to a transformation in the content and tone of late-night shows, with a move towards more corporate and politically correct material compared to the edgier content of the past. Podcasts have emerged as a new platform for boundary-pushing comedy, attracting audiences seeking more diverse and on-demand entertainment options. Late-night TV hosts are considering transitioning to podcasting as a way to adapt to these changing consumption habits and reach a broader audience.
- During the pandemic, podcasts saw increased success as people spent more time at home and sought entertainment and information through audio content. With limited access to traditional forms of entertainment like live events and TV productions, podcasts became a popular and easily accessible alternative for many individuals. The flexibility of podcasts allowed for a wide range of topics and formats to cater to diverse interests and preferences, contributing to their surge in popularity during a time of uncertainty and isolation. The intimat ...
Counterarguments
- While memes are influential, they may not have the depth or narrative complexity that traditional comedy films or TV shows offer, and thus might not completely fill the gap left by less edgy comedy movies.
- The idea that comedy movies are less edgy could be subjective and vary by region, audience, or even by individual perception; some may argue that edgy comedy movies still exist but are not mainstream.
- The democratization of humor through memes could be seen as a positive change, but it might also lead to a dilution of comedic quality due to oversaturation and a lack of professional comedic craft.
- The decline in comedy movie production could be part of a natural ebb and flow in entertainment trends rather than a permanent shift away from traditional media.
- The success of a comedian's special on YouTube might not necessarily indicate a broad change in the business of comedy distribution but could be an isolated case based on the comedian's existing fan base or the content's viral nature.
- The assertion that sitcoms no longer launch comedy careers could be challenged by pointing out emerging comedians who have gained significant exposure through modern sitcoms or streaming series.
- The claim that late-night television's purpose has shifted might overlook the fact that there is still a significant audience that values the traditional format and timing of late-night shows.
- Podcasts may be boundary-pus ...
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1-Page Summary- Comedian Experiences on Late Night Talk Shows and TV Sets
- Comedy Scenes Across Different Cities
- Dealing With Heckling, Comedy Club Issues and Cancel Culture
- The Process of Developing Stand-up Comedy Material
- The Lives and Influences of Dead and Legendary Comedians
- Comedy's Relation to Different Cultures, Race and Identity
- The Shift of Comedy Across Different Platforms and Media
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