Chuck Jones

If you grew up watching Looney Tunes, the name Chuck Jones is sure to bring a big smile. As a director, Chuck helmed so many of the classic episodes, from Duck Amuck and Barbary Coast Bunny to What's Opera Doc and The Rabbit of Seville. Plus, if you love the animated version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, you can thank Chuck Jones for the animation wizardry that brought that story to life. As Robin Williams said when he awarded Chuck a lifetime achievement Oscar, "we have a jones for Chuck Jones". As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Chuck Jones? Chuck Jones' Duck Amuck is often listed at the greatest Looney Tunes episode and its easy to see why. The visual comedy is inventive and relentless and coupled with Daffy's slow burn it makes a potent combo. All together now -- "All right wise guy, where's the rest of me?" https://vimeo.com/403771824 We hope that these extra clips inspire you to search out more! And here is a great starting point -- Barbary Coast Bunny -- featuring Bugs Bunny taking on Nasty Canasta as only he can -- with wit and grit! https://dai.ly/x8e0pyk The music was as much a part of the comedy as the animation in many of the Looney Tunes shorts and nowhere was that more apparent than in the great classical music parody The Rabbit of Seville. https://vimeo.com/456078993 Because animation wasn't looked upon in Hollywood as "serious art" the Oscars ignored Looney Tunes, even though they have lasted longer than most of the movies! in 1996 they made amends by awarding an honorary Oscar, presented by a man many called a living cartoon -- Robin Williams! https://youtu.be/UZ1xZsv5t6A

If you grew up watching Looney Tunes, the name Chuck Jones is sure to bring a big smile. As a director, Chuck helmed so many of the classic episodes, from Duck Amuck and Barbary Coast Bunny to What's Opera Doc and The Rabbit of Seville. Plus, if you love the animated version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, you can thank Chuck Jones for the animation wizardry that brought that story to life. As Robin Williams said when he awarded Chuck a lifetime achievement Oscar, "we have a jones for Chuck Jones". As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Chuck Jones? Chuck Jones' Duck Amuck is often listed at the greatest Looney Tunes episode and its easy to see why. The visual comedy is inventive and relentless and coupled with Daffy's slow burn it makes a potent combo. All together now -- "All right wise guy, where's the rest of me?" <a href="https://vimeo.com/403771824?fbclid=IwAR0a2f4vNiEF_jNRIs78x_wQgF3y1HcL4TURkHPDAXa71hM8a7H2DpR-70g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/403771824</a> We hope that these extra clips inspire you to search out more! And here is a great starting point -- Barbary Coast Bunny -- featuring Bugs Bunny taking on Nasty Canasta as only he can -- with wit and grit! <a href="https://dai.ly/x8e0pyk?fbclid=IwAR23O3g9QpZYnhWU9pyMxbfppAUT-W2p8uvYVFhtyELGPFwBCXGgLnSHu6M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://dai.ly/x8e0pyk</a> The music was as much a part of the comedy as the animation in many of the Looney Tunes shorts and nowhere was that more apparent than in the great classical music parody The Rabbit of Seville. <a href="https://vimeo.com/456078993?fbclid=IwAR0fQRh1gcPvtlU8SxAqiv_90yJo0dMK6Pg-j-Nz-juYB8ryJW5xbDubkFM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/456078993</a> Because animation wasn't looked upon in Hollywood as "serious art" the Oscars ignored Looney Tunes, even though they have lasted longer than most of the movies! in 1996 they made amends by awarding an honorary Oscar, presented by a man many called a living cartoon -- Robin Williams! <a href="https://youtu.be/UZ1xZsv5t6A?fbclid=IwAR27qBQAnu8LKQKXSd80pemP2RNdIKyFeSP7_D2AQGXVJpy-RnaByfkQF1U" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/UZ1xZsv5t6A</a>

Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah is on top of the comedy world and there is no wonder why. From building a career in South Africa as a disc jockey and stand up, Trevor came to America and became the first South African comic to appear on the Tonight Show, built a huge fan base with his warm and witty shows, was selected to replace Jon Stewart as host of the Daily Show, left the Daily Show to return to global stand up touring, became an in-demand awards show host, and during all of that penned a best-selling autobiography. And you get the sense he hasn't yet reached cruising altitude. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Trevor? Trevor was the first South African featured on the Tonight Show, and his early standup work was full of warm, witty, and occasionally sharp edged observations. Here's a longer taste of his early US gigs. https://youtu.be/yhKBbBaMYcA People wondered if anyone could take Jon Stewart's place hosting The Daily Show -- especially a comic from another country who was unknown to much of America. Well, Trevor more than filled the bill, reinventing the show to have a more global focus and a more diverse correspondent pool. And he had the good sense to keep the closing "moment of zen"! Here is a nice cut of some of Trevor's best from The Daily Show. https://youtu.be/IaomieIezI8 Trevor has been a popular awards show host (The Grammys!) and keynote speaker, and one of his best was his turn at the White House Correspondents' Dinner (The Nerd Prom) in 2022. Here are some of Trevor's best jokes nicely compiled.https://youtu.be/-KvCKeQfHIY

Trevor Noah is on top of the comedy world and there is no wonder why. From building a career in South Africa as a disc jockey and stand up, Trevor came to America and became the first South African comic to appear on the Tonight Show, built a huge fan base with his warm and witty shows, was selected to replace Jon Stewart as host of the Daily Show, left the Daily Show to return to global stand up touring, became an in-demand awards show host, and during all of that penned a best-selling autobiography. And you get the sense he hasn't yet reached cruising altitude. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Trevor? Trevor was the first South African featured on the Tonight Show, and his early standup work was full of warm, witty, and occasionally sharp edged observations. Here's a longer taste of his early US gigs. <a href="https://youtu.be/yhKBbBaMYcA?fbclid=IwAR2KZTeQkGL5eN2WVkhctNODJ5R1ygU_OQi1kAClwuxQIGiDOcAM-N2Hj6I" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/yhKBbBaMYcA</a> People wondered if anyone could take Jon Stewart's place hosting The Daily Show -- especially a comic from another country who was unknown to much of America. Well, Trevor more than filled the bill, reinventing the show to have a more global focus and a more diverse correspondent pool. And he had the good sense to keep the closing "moment of zen"! Here is a nice cut of some of Trevor's best from The Daily Show. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FIaomieIezI8%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3ATlwCqrVMwa6fnl657VVElYEHpDBiIGAnkew53lVGm_ZHFngXnCisbMw&amp;h=AT3ySF3zbpzDGjl6QGttA5Rg-oAKpR1h8OmBjB7D9t9FjNo6AdvdckNIH4Z8NsuyDE2tlX8ecnjxCbolj_d37YRwq6BVc6YPXJRU2tAx4De4TdBgOPXvvw3UUzcw6VzH9nIPWD-BnkdNO04SUtti1tQ&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/IaomieIezI8</a> Trevor has been a popular awards show host (The Grammys!) and keynote speaker, and one of his best was his turn at the White House Correspondents' Dinner (The Nerd Prom) in 2022. Here are some of Trevor's best jokes nicely compiled.<a href="https://youtu.be/-KvCKeQfHIY?fbclid=IwAR3qGBdbnS2iiqw4Yw-OeKPrx6jBh2NjF3NNTkxHf2xhLeOZNrx0FIMltcA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/-KvCKeQfHIY</a>

Yakov Smirnoff

"What a country!" has turned into "What a career!" for Yakov Smirnoff who emigrated to the US from Ukraine in the 1970s and built a career out of playful but pointed jabs at Russia and great "fish out of water" bits about himself. Along the way, Yakov has also managed to become a US citizen, earn a PhD in psychology, become an in-demand keynote speaker, score a number of juicy film and tv roles, and establish a long-running comedy theater in Branson, Missouri. We're not sure where he finds time to sleep! As always, find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Yakov? In the 1980s headlining at Dangerfield's was a mark a comic had arrived (much like getting invited to Johnny Carson's Tonight Show couch). Here's a bit of Yakov (introduced by Rodney himself) from 1984. https://youtu.be/QboXCnKpgtU In the 1980s, Chrysler/Plymouth was fighting for its financial life and its line up of inexpensive cars helped pull them back from the brink (along with some help from the government). Were the cars good? Not really. Were they cheap? Oh, yeah! And did they have Yakov as a spokesperson? Of course! https://youtu.be/hkcImMNx3SU Yakov was a frequent and popular guest on American tv, including this appearance on one of Dick Clark's many variety shows, this one from 1988. https://youtu.be/22VI3eN5r9k

"What a country!" has turned into "What a career!" for Yakov Smirnoff who emigrated to the US from Ukraine in the 1970s and built a career out of playful but pointed jabs at Russia and great "fish out of water" bits about himself. Along the way, Yakov has also managed to become a US citizen, earn a PhD in psychology, become an in-demand keynote speaker, score a number of juicy film and tv roles, and establish a long-running comedy theater in Branson, Missouri. We're not sure where he finds time to sleep! As always, find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Yakov? In the 1980s headlining at Dangerfield's was a mark a comic had arrived (much like getting invited to Johnny Carson's Tonight Show couch). Here's a bit of Yakov (introduced by Rodney himself) from 1984. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FQboXCnKpgtU%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2YhMWA304BqUSzd-VGwdxTp4zzeDLzWlcGAToNJsTrJPG_U6PmLgSRHUI&amp;h=AT2QodJLc3fGYIjzOpOazpmaOpsqg49QRzzgC3shhixlSN4b2BB-WaC41dBpedSbIA05g9xZ3iU6zWIeYLSthzatsiUYldkHXOSKOhY8kY46gtD0lWMLTwtNlYMnLr5xEclHNbPZJIUp6ZAXKWKbFXw&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/QboXCnKpgtU</a> In the 1980s, Chrysler/Plymouth was fighting for its financial life and its line up of inexpensive cars helped pull them back from the brink (along with some help from the government). Were the cars good? Not really. Were they cheap? Oh, yeah! And did they have Yakov as a spokesperson? Of course! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FhkcImMNx3SU%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1wNIBvjcvVJJqqQg_Vtn7kPfdiUJTzXjtzlzpAZAUJmn7wsXWIYA1G7Qg&amp;h=AT0MSrs7CVjRGPVdwQ3axGtbp5J9XVi0ZbPPmKmd_roj6VA716RldywdoxdoZiHb4Ad3ePNt2ORs7CJwv55eSRYRy-Fw8D_B0OzVSDK-GM58GSqhrnNSbt9Jws3TbtdynGxcPpFAzuOMtZOAL-dzrhQ&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/hkcImMNx3SU</a> Yakov was a frequent and popular guest on American tv, including this appearance on one of Dick Clark's many variety shows, this one from 1988. <a href="https://youtu.be/22VI3eN5r9k?fbclid=IwAR1Pq-awEKhGfASJfloXfWitMEfs5SgAZHjAggIxDdpXKcUU6bwGW1bp-Lg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/22VI3eN5r9k</a>

Ernie Kovacs

Say the name "Ernie Kovacs" today and you may well be met with a quizzical look. But say "the video art pioneer who inspired SNL, Python, Laugh In, and MST3K among many others" and you'll be in business! Smart-ass adlibs, odd ball musical acts, and numerous (and sometimes surreal) camera tricks that we take for granted today were all part of Ernie's toolkit, and he was ubiquitous on 1950s tv. He also became a superb character actor and sketch comic, and - not surprisingly -- he was an early inductee into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame. Find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Ernie? Ernie had a gift for improv and his early talk shows take full advantage. This clip catches some of Ernie's best for NBC, including a great bit with a malfunctioning camera (it starts about 5:40 in). https://youtu.be/GSH8L2zmtaM We like to say "all comedy is derivative" -- in the best way of course! You can see that premise in action here with Ernie's "Mr. Question Man" -- the foundation for Steve Allen's Answer Man and Johnny Carson's Carnac. https://youtu.be/Tz_C4ZEwFm4 Ernie was also a fine character actor with a standout role in Bell, Book and Candle among his highlights. But he couldn't stop being Ernie as seen in this faux trailer for his first film role in Operation Mad Ball. https://youtu.be/QuVhvH4NHNc

Say the name "Ernie Kovacs" today and you may well be met with a quizzical look. But say "the video art pioneer who inspired SNL, Python, Laugh In, and MST3K among many others" and you'll be in business! Smart-ass adlibs, odd ball musical acts, and numerous (and sometimes surreal) camera tricks that we take for granted today were all part of Ernie's toolkit, and he was ubiquitous on 1950s tv. He also became a superb character actor and sketch comic, and - not surprisingly -- he was an early inductee into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame. Find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Ernie? Ernie had a gift for improv and his early talk shows take full advantage. This clip catches some of Ernie's best for NBC, including a great bit with a malfunctioning camera (it starts about 5:40 in). <a href="https://youtu.be/GSH8L2zmtaM?fbclid=IwAR2od6Vx7xHULc6ZgIgVgD0LTTzbHfHv9bQhmWYTSCKGQ_0r2G4FrmYze8Q" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/GSH8L2zmtaM</a> We like to say "all comedy is derivative" -- in the best way of course! You can see that premise in action here with Ernie's "Mr. Question Man" -- the foundation for Steve Allen's Answer Man and Johnny Carson's Carnac. <a href="https://youtu.be/Tz_C4ZEwFm4?fbclid=IwAR0cMo5hGrXykdjq7nop1qhmHumvjN2lQpae723ALhVsDJMPAc2izX9owW0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/Tz_C4ZEwFm4</a> Ernie was also a fine character actor with a standout role in Bell, Book and Candle among his highlights. But he couldn't stop being Ernie as seen in this faux trailer for his first film role in Operation Mad Ball. <a href="https://youtu.be/QuVhvH4NHNc?fbclid=IwAR3qpa2mGh0v0_Ay4ljoK4meNmCLvZuNCfdEEZyYADv5GI7KpP8V7F51ZeY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/QuVhvH4NHNc</a>

Iliza Shlesinger

Meet Iliza Shlesinger, one of the breakout comics of the last decade, who has ridden sharp character voices, a prowling stage presence, and pointed observations about millennial life to the top. But there is more to Iliza than her fantastic standup including starring in her own sketch comedy show and inhabiting great character roles on film and tv. As always you can find more Iliza below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Iliza? NBC's Last Comic Standing comedy competition has launched numerous careers, including Iliza who was the first female and youngest-ever winner back in 2008. https://youtu.be/WCclz_TxY9o Iliza has the gift of making comedy about the smallest everyday dilemma -- like what to do when you first get to a bar. Adjust your lipliner, of course!https://music.apple.com/.../plunge-that.../1520110602... Iliza does a lot of character work on stage, so it's no wonder she has begun to make a mark with character roles in film and tv. In 2020, Netflix released Spenser Confidential, a Mark Wahlberg led take on the beloved mystery novel series. The movie wasn't great -- but Iliza was as Spenser's salty ex-girlfriend. https://youtu.be/csAReby4VF8

Meet Iliza Shlesinger, one of the breakout comics of the last decade, who has ridden sharp character voices, a prowling stage presence, and pointed observations about millennial life to the top. But there is more to Iliza than her fantastic standup including starring in her own sketch comedy show and inhabiting great character roles on film and tv. As always you can find more Iliza below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Iliza? NBC's Last Comic Standing comedy competition has launched numerous careers, including Iliza who was the first female and youngest-ever winner back in 2008. <a href="https://youtu.be/WCclz_TxY9o?fbclid=IwAR22PCPWYlg7tKx4HAiADLGKcxdj2iunt4kKqxsDrRR_tSFOlzM9JVJOUsQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/WCclz_TxY9o</a> Iliza has the gift of making comedy about the smallest everyday dilemma -- like what to do when you first get to a bar. Adjust your lipliner, of course!<a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/plunge-that-search-claw/1520110602?i=1520110609" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://music.apple.com/.../plunge-that.../1520110602...</a> Iliza does a lot of character work on stage, so it's no wonder she has begun to make a mark with character roles in film and tv. In 2020, Netflix released Spenser Confidential, a Mark Wahlberg led take on the beloved mystery novel series. The movie wasn't great -- but Iliza was as Spenser's salty ex-girlfriend. <a href="https://youtu.be/csAReby4VF8?fbclid=IwAR1P1xE7CeLIBGLauxIT3JTaeRj3MTC55S--afRWoEWS2SWdg3HR0An4Nwk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/csAReby4VF8</a>

Meet Julia Louis Dreyfus who rose from a 21 year old SNL cast member to starring turns on Seinfeld, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and most recently Veep, earning enough awards hardware to require another room! A gifted producer as well as actor and writer, Julia has the gift of balancing world class snark with just the right amount of sweetness to make enduring and lovable characters. No wonder she won the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2018! As always, find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Julia? At the tender age of 21, Julia was plucked from The Second City to join the SNL cast. It was a transitional time but there were still many highlights, including this great bit with Mary Gross and Jim Belushi about a newly liberal and vegetarian daughter coming home for Thanksgiving. Bon Appetit! https://youtu.be/gsTckudUVL8 After her role on Seinfeld, Julia hit TV paydirt again with the New Adventures of Old Christine, in which she plays a single mom running a gym. Sure it's a network sitcom, but the writing is solid and the interplay between Christine and her best friend -- played by Wanda Sykes (!) -- is great fun. Here's some highlights. https://youtu.be/T8yrCzyzZ44 In Veep, Julia created the role of a lifetime -- that of Vice President Selina Meyer. With the help of a gifted supporting cast, Julia nailed the thankless and irrelevant role of a VP -- except when it's not! Here's a nice sample of some of Selina's best lines. https://youtu.be/YtRVGdT6c3E

Meet Julia Louis Dreyfus who rose from a 21 year old SNL cast member to starring turns on Seinfeld, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and most recently Veep, earning enough awards hardware to require another room! A gifted producer as well as actor and writer, Julia has the gift of balancing world class snark with just the right amount of sweetness to make enduring and lovable characters. No wonder she won the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2018! As always, find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Julia? At the tender age of 21, Julia was plucked from The Second City to join the SNL cast. It was a transitional time but there were still many highlights, including this great bit with Mary Gross and Jim Belushi about a newly liberal and vegetarian daughter coming home for Thanksgiving. Bon Appetit! <a href="https://youtu.be/gsTckudUVL8?fbclid=IwAR2v6tA2DDmVBYYcRLhgDOwyI5b25FxgJITrDawG4i251R-SslDBeW6E7y0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/gsTckudUVL8</a> After her role on Seinfeld, Julia hit TV paydirt again with the New Adventures of Old Christine, in which she plays a single mom running a gym. Sure it's a network sitcom, but the writing is solid and the interplay between Christine and her best friend -- played by Wanda Sykes (!) -- is great fun. Here's some highlights. <a href="https://youtu.be/T8yrCzyzZ44?fbclid=IwAR2bTmyj9vJy1hIufptSXfH9E62Xz3C96qz7fdztRHu07nKmYAtQbUgpc30" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/T8yrCzyzZ44</a> In Veep, Julia created the role of a lifetime -- that of Vice President Selina Meyer. With the help of a gifted supporting cast, Julia nailed the thankless and irrelevant role of a VP -- except when it's not! Here's a nice sample of some of Selina's best lines. <a href="https://youtu.be/YtRVGdT6c3E?fbclid=IwAR16htz2YyoNEqr-K5mUczQmSm1DV-NLAPUCWXHP0GatcuzURtEMTKg4Em0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/YtRVGdT6c3E</a>

Julia Louis Dreyfus

Meet some nice guys from Canada who once on stage turn into some arrogant worms. Make that THE Arrogant Worms -- a long running musical comedy trio who blend bouncy melodies and sharp lyrics. From their humble roots on college radio, the Worms have gone on to release nearly two dozen albums and compilations and they remain a top touring act to this day. As always find extra clips below (including one that finds the true culprit behind climate change) and thanks for sharing our shows. Want More Worms? One of the Worms' most popular songs takes concerns over animal welfare and extends them to the next logical place, asking the question: What if veggies have feelings? https://youtu.be/KmK0bZl4ILM When it was revealed that methane from cow farts was harming the Ozone layer every middle school boy came up with a joke and the Worms -- well they came up with a novelty music classic. https://youtu.be/JohcbfO0OjA Have you ever wondered the best way to make it into the history books? If so, the Worms have you covered! https://youtu.be/xgun4yFSsuU

Meet some nice guys from Canada who once on stage turn into some arrogant worms. Make that THE Arrogant Worms -- a long running musical comedy trio who blend bouncy melodies and sharp lyrics. From their humble roots on college radio, the Worms have gone on to release nearly two dozen albums and compilations and they remain a top touring act to this day. As always find extra clips below (including one that finds the true culprit behind climate change) and thanks for sharing our shows. Want More Worms? One of the Worms' most popular songs takes concerns over animal welfare and extends them to the next logical place, asking the question: What if veggies have feelings? <a href="https://youtu.be/KmK0bZl4ILM?fbclid=IwAR17VGt06SZyUtrpRnpBHjwG4Ys93KYWLoaDulIW3j_wRhs4KRzrdnSWy1M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/KmK0bZl4ILM</a> When it was revealed that methane from cow farts was harming the Ozone layer every middle school boy came up with a joke and the Worms -- well they came up with a novelty music classic. <a href="https://youtu.be/JohcbfO0OjA?fbclid=IwAR13DAS6vbhEA9D9XYLCMLMnprwED9dsI4OUyW1wWgUaRJmOuLGTLM5eSmc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/JohcbfO0OjA</a> Have you ever wondered the best way to make it into the history books? If so, the Worms have you covered! <a href="https://youtu.be/xgun4yFSsuU?fbclid=IwAR1YL_O6HB88d0JrA9c-h9KIMQr1bzDFYtIUVZp21uwBKRMdfhl3QUC0cgU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/xgun4yFSsuU</a>

The Arrogant Worms

Benny Hill

For Decades Alfred Hawthorne Hill -- known to us as Benny Hill -- was a titan of British (and later American) television comedy with a show that blended slapstick, parody, mime, and a generous helping of double entendre. Benny presided over the show with a rascally gleam in his eye and Boots Randolph's hit "Yakety Sax" was used as the theme -- to the point people had no idea it wasn't written just for the show. Feeling Benny had run his course (after 35 years!) tv bigwigs axed the program in 1989, but the British public begged to differ, keeping it popular in reruns and DVD reissues to this day. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Benny Hill? Benny was a high energy host and this 1965 clip catches a bit of that, along with a great take on a German English instructor.https://youtu.be/EmMZ9J-EKlQ Benny's shows always featured a lot of double entendre and general naughtiness. That style eventually fell out of favor, though Hill noted the butt of his "hanky panky" jokes always were the guys. Here's Benny in a sketch about a reluctant bridegroom. https://youtu.be/jZMcP9SoTVc Parodies of American television were stock in trade for Benny Hill, particularly of crime and detective shows. Hill was a fine mimic, and here he takes on three top cops -- Frank Cannon, McCloud, and Hercule Poirot. https://youtu.be/EMId43b-fWA

For Decades Alfred Hawthorne Hill -- known to us as Benny Hill -- was a titan of British (and later American) television comedy with a show that blended slapstick, parody, mime, and a generous helping of double entendre. Benny presided over the show with a rascally gleam in his eye and Boots Randolph's hit "Yakety Sax" was used as the theme -- to the point people had no idea it wasn't written just for the show. Feeling Benny had run his course (after 35 years!) tv bigwigs axed the program in 1989, but the British public begged to differ, keeping it popular in reruns and DVD reissues to this day. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Benny Hill? Benny was a high energy host and this 1965 clip catches a bit of that, along with a great take on a German English instructor.<a href="https://youtu.be/EmMZ9J-EKlQ?fbclid=IwAR178FU-WHIEvxeWu6cj17quUwOr1Jv0ztCEmBCO90gYbnCMAp6SAsnnPf4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/EmMZ9J-EKlQ</a> Benny's shows always featured a lot of double entendre and general naughtiness. That style eventually fell out of favor, though Hill noted the butt of his "hanky panky" jokes always were the guys. Here's Benny in a sketch about a reluctant bridegroom. <a href="https://youtu.be/jZMcP9SoTVc?fbclid=IwAR0DxbiNHuOQRz5WJqGwGckbNmO9E5IlyGIKJ-3X2atvGocWDUjU_wN6T4s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/jZMcP9SoTVc</a> Parodies of American television were stock in trade for Benny Hill, particularly of crime and detective shows. Hill was a fine mimic, and here he takes on three top cops -- Frank Cannon, McCloud, and Hercule Poirot. <a href="https://youtu.be/EMId43b-fWA?fbclid=IwAR35KZPe92N0gPWpRrcfDE31JGX1BWwVh9uCcoohvGmfb_TnQgIGNa_dVAE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/EMId43b-fWA</a>

Tracey Ullman

Meet one of the most talented and creative comics around, the legendary Tracey Ullman. A master of sketch comedy and impersonation (and a fine singer to boot), Tracey has racked up dozens of awards over a career now spanning 40 years. From her early days in West End Musicals, to her breakthrough Fox TV show (with also saw the debut of The Simpsons) to her current sketch comedy work, Tracey has built a truly global following. As always, find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Tracey? Tracey's first breakthrough in the US actually came via the radio airwaves. Signed to Stiff Records (home of Elvis Costello and many other new wave giants), Tracey hit the charts with "I Know What Boys Like" back in 1984. Get your skinny ties out for this one. https://youtu.be/ww2R2q_w7JU Tracey isn't a standup comic. Rather, she lets the comedy flow from perfectly realized characters as in this bit in which Tracey's very drunk driver tries to talk her way out of a ticket. https://youtu.be/64mlGnEEAF8 A lot of impressionists can do the classics but how many can deliver a spot on Angela Merkel? The answer is "Tracey Ullman". In this bit from her most recent HBO series, Tracey envisions a Skype call between Merkel and then-newly elected US President Donald Trump. Needless to say, it's delicious! https://youtu.be/-rMo87P-nDc

Meet one of the most talented and creative comics around, the legendary Tracey Ullman. A master of sketch comedy and impersonation (and a fine singer to boot), Tracey has racked up dozens of awards over a career now spanning 40 years. From her early days in West End Musicals, to her breakthrough Fox TV show (with also saw the debut of The Simpsons) to her current sketch comedy work, Tracey has built a truly global following. As always, find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Tracey? Tracey's first breakthrough in the US actually came via the radio airwaves. Signed to Stiff Records (home of Elvis Costello and many other new wave giants), Tracey hit the charts with "I Know What Boys Like" back in 1984. Get your skinny ties out for this one. <a href="https://youtu.be/ww2R2q_w7JU?fbclid=IwAR35g3kuzPhqvSHnYCFwbDSqS-djKdHVGpTi534S0IKDWqIoh1ILzv_6_cE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/ww2R2q_w7JU</a> Tracey isn't a standup comic. Rather, she lets the comedy flow from perfectly realized characters as in this bit in which Tracey's very drunk driver tries to talk her way out of a ticket. <a href="https://youtu.be/64mlGnEEAF8?fbclid=IwAR0QroPmviqtsG_4ymstyNQ96lPHdx63iDmoIytkILo-wEDSk4Rv7PATNYw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/64mlGnEEAF8</a> A lot of impressionists can do the classics but how many can deliver a spot on Angela Merkel? The answer is "Tracey Ullman". In this bit from her most recent HBO series, Tracey envisions a Skype call between Merkel and then-newly elected US President Donald Trump. Needless to say, it's delicious! <a href="https://youtu.be/-rMo87P-nDc?fbclid=IwAR0RlhPCesxlpCP9ptj7R-jY402yXxNmpWdzfd31c8HxW7xtS62uJGS8hFo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/-rMo87P-nDc</a>

Dickie Goodman

You may never have heard the name Dickie Goodman, but no doubt you've heard his work -- at least if you have heard any comedy bit that has someone ask a question that is rapidly answered by a snippet of a popular song. It's called cut-in comedy and Dickie was the pioneer, releasing records from the 1950s into the 1980s and scoring the occasional hit along the way. From an early smash envisioning the first flying saucer landing on earth to later discs parodying Watergate, Jaws, and King Kong, Dickie was one of the pioneers of sampling (even if he didn't know it at the time). As always find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Dickie Goodman? Dickie's first hit (with Bill Buchanan) capitalized on UFO mania, envisioning the first visit by a space alien to earth. It was a smash and launched a career that lasted 40 years. https://youtu.be/A1s8vsWP7sY The success of Dickie's records usually was correlated to the success of his underlying topic -- so hit movies were fertile ground indeed. One of his biggest hits riffed of the smash movie Jaws. https://youtu.be/JeYCOFblZRg When Dickie passed on it seemed that his style of comedy might fade away but examples still pop up from time to time including some from his son Jon who has kept Dickie's original recording in circulation, updating some along the way, and issuing new cut in discs including this recent take on events in Ukraine. https://youtu.be/KGRQCiylMRg

You may never have heard the name Dickie Goodman, but no doubt you've heard his work -- at least if you have heard any comedy bit that has someone ask a question that is rapidly answered by a snippet of a popular song. It's called cut-in comedy and Dickie was the pioneer, releasing records from the 1950s into the 1980s and scoring the occasional hit along the way. From an early smash envisioning the first flying saucer landing on earth to later discs parodying Watergate, Jaws, and King Kong, Dickie was one of the pioneers of sampling (even if he didn't know it at the time). As always find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Dickie Goodman? Dickie's first hit (with Bill Buchanan) capitalized on UFO mania, envisioning the first visit by a space alien to earth. It was a smash and launched a career that lasted 40 years. <a href="https://youtu.be/A1s8vsWP7sY?fbclid=IwAR1A0Z3P55B5znlejsIRhfYVqg_jetKi-YB1-OnAq_RQdicz1CULwdqBiBQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/A1s8vsWP7sY</a> The success of Dickie's records usually was correlated to the success of his underlying topic -- so hit movies were fertile ground indeed. One of his biggest hits riffed of the smash movie Jaws. <a href="https://youtu.be/JeYCOFblZRg?fbclid=IwAR0A1kkPvZjbLUIy6Hvy-ebQ681kkriwn3l9R2JImljxxl93rmUGTfARcyA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/JeYCOFblZRg</a> When Dickie passed on it seemed that his style of comedy might fade away but examples still pop up from time to time including some from his son Jon who has kept Dickie's original recording in circulation, updating some along the way, and issuing new cut in discs including this recent take on events in Ukraine. <a href="https://youtu.be/KGRQCiylMRg?fbclid=IwAR3pabY7WhnMHNRcfaxXglWH26kNgm8L19w7cbag7NjybwiaMluelLMu7yw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/KGRQCiylMRg</a>

Randy Hodgins and Steve McLellan’s lifelong love of comedy was kindled when they met more than 40 years ago in graduate school in Seattle.  While managing family and professional work responsibilities, they hosted a one hour comedy radio program on Saturday mornings for 10 years on a small radio station in Olympia, WA and also co-authored two books on northwest popular culture – Seattle on Film (1995) and Wet and Wired (2000).  Stuck at home during the early days of the pandemic with hundreds of comedy albums, cassettes and CD’s gathering dust on their shelves, they launched Laugh Tracks Legends of Comedy in May 2020, a weekly mini-program featuring a different comedy icon, with biographical bits and a nice slice of the comedy that made them famous. From standup stars, to stellar sketch teams, to novelty music maestros -- they are all part of our Legends.

Dave Barry

Here's a guy who has been a Pulitzer-winning columnist, a best-selling novelist, a much sought-after speaker, and guitarist in a garage band that also features Stephen King. It's Dave Barry and his one of a kind career makes him a legend of comedy. From humble beginnings as a beat reporter, Dave eventually became the king of newspaper humor columnists and his affectionately irreverent humor connect with a boomer audience from the start. While he has dialed back his output in recent years, fans still look forward to his annual year in review column and snarky holiday gift guide and he found a new outlet during the pandemic cutting short videos for the Miami Herald filled with the patented Barry wit. Find more Dave Barry below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Dave? Dave isn't a standup comic, but his popular keynote speeches are filled with humor nonetheless. Here a slice of Dave talking about one of his favorite topics -- adulthood! https://youtu.be/mlBvneYoH0E Dave's World was a sitcom based loosely on Barry's life, starring Night Court vet Harry Anderson as Dave. This bit features costars Shadoe Stevens and Meshach Taylor on Dave's decision to get a vasectomy.https://youtu.be/iEM69OSqi3A Dave Barry still surfaces from time to time with a special column or video and his dispatches during Covid were classic -- especially this one on America's rarest and most valuable commodity -- TP! https://www.youtube.com/live/w5IE

Here's a guy who has been a Pulitzer-winning columnist, a best-selling novelist, a much sought-after speaker, and guitarist in a garage band that also features Stephen King. It's Dave Barry and his one of a kind career makes him a legend of comedy. From humble beginnings as a beat reporter, Dave eventually became the king of newspaper humor columnists and his affectionately irreverent humor connect with a boomer audience from the start. While he has dialed back his output in recent years, fans still look forward to his annual year in review column and snarky holiday gift guide and he found a new outlet during the pandemic cutting short videos for the Miami Herald filled with the patented Barry wit. Find more Dave Barry below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Dave? Dave isn't a standup comic, but his popular keynote speeches are filled with humor nonetheless. Here a slice of Dave talking about one of his favorite topics -- adulthood! <a href="https://youtu.be/mlBvneYoH0E?fbclid=IwAR0vSmC5bPbYtupy2jlMLmNKH20O3nR4WT1-jSr7ARrIVayoJUkYy2RC_TM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/mlBvneYoH0E</a> Dave's World was a sitcom based loosely on Barry's life, starring Night Court vet Harry Anderson as Dave. This bit features costars Shadoe Stevens and Meshach Taylor on Dave's decision to get a vasectomy.<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FiEM69OSqi3A%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR08wxVFlMix0pTqBJzE6RB5syVnGiYbqm-VvoP12UzxKZ1BrSwsO0Aj1Og&amp;h=AT31xpEPq_GmLTqt1e2QG1o2rXctfbD1uHJp1_1jMl1AnpvYeOut6YVDdNSJpNmVR8pbih-FXbr2op6wv1OSGPhvaDy7sEKKtcT7Ful-cVDYHA-HkQMysSVMtQhBH4R5Er_iwV5ustkeBDQIwGVKLCc&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/iEM69OSqi3A</a> Dave Barry still surfaces from time to time with a special column or video and his dispatches during Covid were classic -- especially this one on America's rarest and most valuable commodity -- TP! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/w5IE7juq4p4?feature=share&amp;fbclid=IwAR0vSmC5bPbYtupy2jlMLmNKH20O3nR4WT1-jSr7ARrIVayoJUkYy2RC_TM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/live/w5IE</a>

Roy D

If that guy on the phone starts to threaten you with "opening a can of whup-ass" don't panic -- you probably just got a call from Roy D. Mercer, the king of countrified prank phone calls. The invention of two Tulsa DJs, Brent Douglas and Phil Stone, Roy was first unleashed on the public 30 years ago and he soon caught on with listeners, particularly long-distance truckers who sent album sales into gold record territory. 24 albums and a music video (with Charlie Daniels!) later, Brent and Phil "retired" Roy, but his catalog lives on anywhere a little "whup-ass" is needed. As always find more cuts below and thank you for sharing our shows! Want more Roy? Roy's setups usually revolve around some minor dispute which soon escalates into Roy threatening to open a can of "whup-ass" on the other party. Part of the reasons these work is that friends of the victim usually provided Brent and Phil with some insider knowledge. Here's a bit where Roy wants his money after a fender bender. https://youtu.be/68cflgA-2wo One of Roy's greatest bits involved a dead hamster and a guy with the most infectious laugh on the other end of the line. https://youtu.be/VA4DUYwoJWs Back in the 80s a star-studded music video was a must for any comic (see "Rappin' Rodney"). Most weren't very good, but Brent and Phil pulled it off in style by having country star Charlie Daniels provide the music while some of Roy's greatest bits floated through.https://youtu.be/kUqMDamYMkM

If that guy on the phone starts to threaten you with "opening a can of whup-ass" don't panic -- you probably just got a call from Roy D. Mercer, the king of countrified prank phone calls. The invention of two Tulsa DJs, Brent Douglas and Phil Stone, Roy was first unleashed on the public 30 years ago and he soon caught on with listeners, particularly long-distance truckers who sent album sales into gold record territory. 24 albums and a music video (with Charlie Daniels!) later, Brent and Phil "retired" Roy, but his catalog lives on anywhere a little "whup-ass" is needed. As always find more cuts below and thank you for sharing our shows! Want more Roy? Roy's setups usually revolve around some minor dispute which soon escalates into Roy threatening to open a can of "whup-ass" on the other party. Part of the reasons these work is that friends of the victim usually provided Brent and Phil with some insider knowledge. Here's a bit where Roy wants his money after a fender bender. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F68cflgA-2wo%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR18jdgQyjaFvohttPGEnQKtWvGnuBvN5KqbZ7qMmrFnLixvPqhBQyQbPcg&amp;h=AT3GAGa9_aCzQmW-iiYx8u2GEbmWT9KqH7MMbh4iLCB8xrqWKWH4vPSn5mHmSOLmgO0X6EtdZGzLTDWD2qGuNj7jQe4e2F-9hSOCIEhyuUBBI_UJFaqhjYG9nlSY42C3TdZ3r0nKvHibj6W9HjFY_V4&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/68cflgA-2wo</a> One of Roy's greatest bits involved a dead hamster and a guy with the most infectious laugh on the other end of the line. <a href="https://youtu.be/VA4DUYwoJWs?fbclid=IwAR1RBHNlC0J7mQw9dpiuy6Pn94ojntU1YKHmim2GbXgyuTb_d533bsBMcwk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/VA4DUYwoJWs</a> Back in the 80s a star-studded music video was a must for any comic (see "Rappin' Rodney"). Most weren't very good, but Brent and Phil pulled it off in style by having country star Charlie Daniels provide the music while some of Roy's greatest bits floated through.<a href="https://youtu.be/kUqMDamYMkM?fbclid=IwAR3L0OPIDbAb3nB01APQccvKNdVtj77V_K5YKPDjIVlyoFM8rpPIg1W8dZ0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/kUqMDamYMkM</a>

Roy D. Mercer

Chris Rock is one of the greatest standup comics of all time, and he has parlayed that success into a career that has lasted 40 years (and counting). His standup style is edgy and NSFW, but his tv and movie work has something for all ages -- from flamethrower HBO specials to the sweet and funny sitcom "Everybody Hates Chris" to an animated role as a zebra in Madagascar to recent dramatic turns in Fargo and Spiral. And we feel safe in predicting that Chris will always have a singular accomplishment -- that of being the only person slapped by a nominee on an Oscar stage! As always find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Rock? Chris Rock first came to fame as a smart standup comic with a flamethrower style. No topic was off limits and a typical Rock set would have audiences both howling with laughter and squirming with discomfort. Here is an early clip of Rock taken from the Comedy Club Network. And check out the hair! https://youtu.be/bdBq-i2C4cA  Chris Rock's time on Saturday Night Live was tense and he left after just three seasons. But in that time he came up with some enduring characters including talk show host Nat X -- a man "so black he's navy." https://youtu.be/vLqnKq1IsUY  For a very R rated comedian, Chris has managed to weave in some family friendly projects including the animated hit Madagascar in which he plays Marty the Zebra -- here showing off his "circus afro." https://youtu.be/NQ3A7P3k8mI  Chris likely wouldn't pick the "slap heard round the world" as a career highlight, but it sure got (and continues to get) people's attention! Check out this news coverage of Chris' recent standup special where he finally address just what was going through his mind. https://youtu.be/lmRJoHCu8Ts 

Chris Rock is one of the greatest standup comics of all time, and he has parlayed that success into a career that has lasted 40 years (and counting). His standup style is edgy and NSFW, but his tv and movie work has something for all ages -- from flamethrower HBO specials to the sweet and funny sitcom "Everybody Hates Chris" to an animated role as a zebra in Madagascar to recent dramatic turns in Fargo and Spiral. And we feel safe in predicting that Chris will always have a singular accomplishment -- that of being the only person slapped by a nominee on an Oscar stage! As always find extra cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Rock? Chris Rock first came to fame as a smart standup comic with a flamethrower style. No topic was off limits and a typical Rock set would have audiences both howling with laughter and squirming with discomfort. Here is an early clip of Rock taken from the Comedy Club Network. And check out the hair! <a href="https://youtu.be/bdBq-i2C4cA?fbclid=IwAR1FDf7MdGv1DKnHAu2eJC0ppLuMf2eOOqmfm7w_vl4a2VRsTJZwbDCidD8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/bdBq-i2C4cA</a> Chris Rock's time on Saturday Night Live was tense and he left after just three seasons. But in that time he came up with some enduring characters including talk show host Nat X -- a man "so black he's navy." <a href="https://youtu.be/vLqnKq1IsUY?fbclid=IwAR3XCz7oV56GHG0PLlrhE4Z-AjFM0Akxl22VyoZiNgCw1zlKEqka5YIbHw0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/vLqnKq1IsUY</a> For a very R rated comedian, Chris has managed to weave in some family friendly projects including the animated hit Madagascar in which he plays Marty the Zebra -- here showing off his "circus afro." <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FNQ3A7P3k8mI%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3vBYqucCY3-ZS4hPGtzoIBtJZSrbW6N-HPeLCsJA3GuRZN4-y6_fYJmbg&amp;h=AT1bHdTrZ3i8ghFgKIWJvLwI7_DBbaY6OaGiB0cjI5m5RSaXLA8lhh63Pweiv99GZhDcJZhXM9OmO4WCU9lUbNgvwlsxQCklnjm9JZqWz4ltcTwYRzsW3TltkIkRALzxpRJXCQrkpCtBaVCt96i2tT4&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/NQ3A7P3k8mI</a> Chris likely wouldn't pick the "slap heard round the world" as a career highlight, but it sure got (and continues to get) people's attention! Check out this news coverage of Chris' recent standup special where he finally address just what was going through his mind. <a href="https://youtu.be/lmRJoHCu8Ts?fbclid=IwAR0FLvBJC8oGSQEscsUcBx0_6KXGznWA91qaV6eCtdiRrHSAlksVfFpt79Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/lmRJoHCu8Ts</a>

Chris Rock

Billy Crystal

He sings, he acts, he dances, and he shticks! It's the masterful Billy Crystal who has been a beloved presence on the standup and theater stage, on tv, and in movies since the 1970s. From a groundbreaking role on the ABC show "Soap" to joining a cast of heavy hitters to save Saturday Night Live to an amazing string of hit movies to an award winning Broadway show - - it would proably be easier to list what he hasn't done! As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Billy? Even if you have never seen one of Billy's movies, tv shows, theater appearances, or stand up gigs you almost certainly know him -- from his many appearances as the host of the Oscar telecast. Known for flamboyant entrances and gentle pokes, Billy's hosting spots still are held up as a gold standard for other hosts. Here's his monologue from the 1993 telecast. https://youtu.be/CF6fpn8Ts68 Soap was a revolutionary soap opera satire and Billy was part of the revolution, playing the first unambiguously gay characters on a prime time show -- with his customary affectionate irreverence. https://youtu.be/vudJivvHWqI After the original Saturday Night cast left in the late 70s the show floundered for a while, and it looked like it might be canceled. The call went out for a group of proven sketch comedy stars and Billy answered it. One of his breakout bits was as latin lothario Fernando Llamas hosting a talk show that had one thing on its mind -- looking Mahvelous! https://youtu.be/9NdcinOjbPI Billy was a legit leading man after a string of romantic comedy hits, but one of his most beloved roles is a small but pivotal one in The Princess Bride. Billy plays Miracle Max, a wizard of dubious skills, who reminds us a lot of Mel Brooks! https://youtu.be/d4ftmOI5NnI

He sings, he acts, he dances, and he shticks! It's the masterful Billy Crystal who has been a beloved presence on the standup and theater stage, on tv, and in movies since the 1970s. From a groundbreaking role on the ABC show "Soap" to joining a cast of heavy hitters to save Saturday Night Live to an amazing string of hit movies to an award winning Broadway show - - it would proably be easier to list what he hasn't done! As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Billy? Even if you have never seen one of Billy's movies, tv shows, theater appearances, or stand up gigs you almost certainly know him -- from his many appearances as the host of the Oscar telecast. Known for flamboyant entrances and gentle pokes, Billy's hosting spots still are held up as a gold standard for other hosts. Here's his monologue from the 1993 telecast. <a href="https://youtu.be/CF6fpn8Ts68?fbclid=IwAR3rx1_X00S8MrYOTeqtb_zzT4n3lBaYHsu_HccemOhOP0xUUxRztLXZHZE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/CF6fpn8Ts68</a> Soap was a revolutionary soap opera satire and Billy was part of the revolution, playing the first unambiguously gay characters on a prime time show -- with his customary affectionate irreverence. <a href="https://youtu.be/vudJivvHWqI?fbclid=IwAR03qR5bd2DWYu25CCpbdJqN4NVnwnt9_2SkqYyeGx2X5l8S2v84UNH2C1U" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/vudJivvHWqI</a> After the original Saturday Night cast left in the late 70s the show floundered for a while, and it looked like it might be canceled. The call went out for a group of proven sketch comedy stars and Billy answered it. One of his breakout bits was as latin lothario Fernando Llamas hosting a talk show that had one thing on its mind -- looking Mahvelous! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F9NdcinOjbPI%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3-zGE4y8wne2bcDUoa5id06eYkR8QWBUbw2SRL8huKnr6j9wG-w_7O5QQ&amp;h=AT1s5Lqnt5OD3m5_-XHEXrlROKlfKd26gKOojd2WM8rtkqjFRj-WUMN-SeXutNFpGqeiqlUW5RanM8ShBvJfKl9meg2CPgYkdfp8-MfPpdyZdpJlhbeSDvSkgFSs5i89AT0Rnsg0PSu5e5O1eh-4BTg&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/9NdcinOjbPI</a> Billy was a legit leading man after a string of romantic comedy hits, but one of his most beloved roles is a small but pivotal one in The Princess Bride. Billy plays Miracle Max, a wizard of dubious skills, who reminds us a lot of Mel Brooks! <a href="https://youtu.be/d4ftmOI5NnI?fbclid=IwAR0SWZ1mvcljAgMlfWOM6WN-nTADck8VfqsWNXts3YIHJEzdOtihw9bfK60" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/d4ftmOI5NnI</a>

Paul Lynde

Turn the camp and snark volume to 11 -- this time out we feature the great Paul Lynde who became a gay icon in the 1960s and 70s by hiding in plain sight. From a start doing stand up, then a turn on the Broadway stage, Paul later added to his resume a character on the sitcom classic Bewitched, a LONG run as the flippant and sarcastic "center square" on The Hollywood Squares game show, and a surreal Halloween television special that is a Hall of Fame entry in the "so bad it's good" sweepstakes. As always, find full cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Paul? You can't do a Paul Lynde episode without including a sampling of his snarky answers on the Hollywood Squares. You really can't think of one without the other -- in fact, one biography of Paul is titled "Center Square." https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns Paul's flamboyance was made for the stage, so it's fitting his first breakout role was as the father in the Broadway show (and later movie) Bye Bye Birdie. Here's Paul's big number -- talking about what's wrong with kids these days (yes, some things never change). https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns Paul's most famous sitcom role was a recurring character on Bewitched, playing the incorrigible warlock prankster Uncle Arthur. Here's some of Arthur's best. https://youtu.be/92pJ3ea-0tk After Paul's turn on Bewitched, the networks wanted to feature him but couldn't find the right role -- one that had just enough camp but not so much it scared straight America. One result was this bizarre Halloween special featuring (among others) Margaret Hamilton from The Wizard of Oz and the first TV appearance of Kiss. We've started the clip where Kiss first appears, but by all means rewind and watch the whole thing. A true "what exactly were they thinking" enterprise! https://youtu.be/CCJ0D4pI0tI?t=2469

Turn the camp and snark volume to 11 -- this time out we feature the great Paul Lynde who became a gay icon in the 1960s and 70s by hiding in plain sight. From a start doing stand up, then a turn on the Broadway stage, Paul later added to his resume a character on the sitcom classic Bewitched, a LONG run as the flippant and sarcastic "center square" on The Hollywood Squares game show, and a surreal Halloween television special that is a Hall of Fame entry in the "so bad it's good" sweepstakes. As always, find full cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Paul? You can't do a Paul Lynde episode without including a sampling of his snarky answers on the Hollywood Squares. You really can't think of one without the other -- in fact, one biography of Paul is titled "Center Square." <a href="https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns?fbclid=IwAR03UInAzCKXW91KOhdXSBDUYx-M4rQntfK620lGlnz6cGLS6gumT5DiDJc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns</a> Paul's flamboyance was made for the stage, so it's fitting his first breakout role was as the father in the Broadway show (and later movie) Bye Bye Birdie. Here's Paul's big number -- talking about what's wrong with kids these days (yes, some things never change). <a href="https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns?fbclid=IwAR3bUZ1pQE6JFQx2lMZfaLFNGDbeBOMBnMiFIg_SmyeuGfBhVbn48FIH-lY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/1wCXr_6wgns</a> Paul's most famous sitcom role was a recurring character on Bewitched, playing the incorrigible warlock prankster Uncle Arthur. Here's some of Arthur's best. <a href="https://youtu.be/92pJ3ea-0tk?fbclid=IwAR0xl3oQdR5BRX9tVKlS7Sdy3hlMcrc44nSvqK0KI0dXcr7qEjnzl6BxwqM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/92pJ3ea-0tk</a> After Paul's turn on Bewitched, the networks wanted to feature him but couldn't find the right role -- one that had just enough camp but not so much it scared straight America. One result was this bizarre Halloween special featuring (among others) Margaret Hamilton from The Wizard of Oz and the first TV appearance of Kiss. We've started the clip where Kiss first appears, but by all means rewind and watch the whole thing. A true "what exactly were they thinking" enterprise! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FCCJ0D4pI0tI%3Ft%3D2469%26fbclid%3DIwAR1sfKhQyiDfv4ynlYM3awxpvgXPfs27Ut2zBkgIGm8jjGj5-jEYF_hODnk&amp;h=AT1vmtK0EMaPCOccGK2-ga_dRsAXxtI-Gc_ObYDNKtX_vtaEAJyghmeLJTdDRRulZhghuFp3q9Gg3bCNMJ5a6cXY1K6B5nAAw3rE10nTcqU2JWPxdR5jiltjffHmHA8I9Sq8d_fv98Ovv3i8PRBW0pQ&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/CCJ0D4pI0tI?t=2469</a>

Ruth Wallis

Meet Ruth Wallis who playfully scandalized America in the 1950s and 60s with her naughty ditties. First a cabaret singer specializing in big band jazz, Ruth found the double entendre novelty numbers she slipped in her set got the biggest response. She reworked her set around those tunes and many albums and tours followed until she was eclipsed by newer comics willing to work much more "blue". But after she retired, Ruth found a new audience courtesy of Dr. Demento and she kept reissuing her recordings for years. As always, find full cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Ruth Wallis? Here's a bonus -- the full version of Davy's Dinghy -- a classic Ruth number that introduced her to a new generation of fans thanks to heavy airplay on the Dr. Demento show. https://youtu.be/bGHLCeDjH_E Ruth had a gift for novelty tunes, and they weren't always blue. Her first effort, which reached the lower rungs of the music charts, was Dear Mr. Godfrey, based on Arthur Godfrey's firing of singer Julius LaRosa for "lacking humility." Ruth nominates herself to fill the void! https://youtu.be/-wpznMXAuG4 In the 1950s naughtiness was frowned on by the authorities in most countries, usually with the result that the targeted works became even more popular. Ruth had her tunes "banned in Boston" and her records were confiscated by Australian customs. This rare skit from an Aussie variety show features Ruth in song and a great skit about her legal travails. And as always, it only made her more famous! https://youtu.be/HPf7TRAJkSg Ruth's songs usually were based on double entendres and there is no better example than this -- The Hawaiian Lei Song, one of her most popular. https://youtu.be/H4PnSX5Oruc

Meet Ruth Wallis who playfully scandalized America in the 1950s and 60s with her naughty ditties. First a cabaret singer specializing in big band jazz, Ruth found the double entendre novelty numbers she slipped in her set got the biggest response. She reworked her set around those tunes and many albums and tours followed until she was eclipsed by newer comics willing to work much more "blue". But after she retired, Ruth found a new audience courtesy of Dr. Demento and she kept reissuing her recordings for years. As always, find full cuts below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Ruth Wallis? Here's a bonus -- the full version of Davy's Dinghy -- a classic Ruth number that introduced her to a new generation of fans thanks to heavy airplay on the Dr. Demento show. <a href="https://youtu.be/bGHLCeDjH_E?fbclid=IwAR2rhebNJXu6R9vWoxRU0enwYAaVKgBUrzs9NfiifP27vKsJqZ5F6306FQg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/bGHLCeDjH_E</a> Ruth had a gift for novelty tunes, and they weren't always blue. Her first effort, which reached the lower rungs of the music charts, was Dear Mr. Godfrey, based on Arthur Godfrey's firing of singer Julius LaRosa for "lacking humility." Ruth nominates herself to fill the void! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F-wpznMXAuG4%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0gyowVq0hCaaWNnxxefAps4TMNRmwVpMopkw_jC2LCb0md0P-4aJ4uz3s&amp;h=AT1kfIzPYkbXOqks6duAcXNEDuzZDg_khVEykeC4you7BF4Z3F-Icu4uYU_rfPB4oya4saDltAgDM0HTM69PG44AztFKA_E3IvddVZehGsRyOFGNCViu9xqABj68InC-8WmqdFyfFj9VtIYqZFtXvgI&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/-wpznMXAuG4</a> In the 1950s naughtiness was frowned on by the authorities in most countries, usually with the result that the targeted works became even more popular. Ruth had her tunes "banned in Boston" and her records were confiscated by Australian customs. This rare skit from an Aussie variety show features Ruth in song and a great skit about her legal travails. And as always, it only made her more famous! <a href="https://youtu.be/HPf7TRAJkSg?fbclid=IwAR1rPBT3RMlvBUC4CDkEYddl-pDnixGOMsryyZAvcxpqmrnmmbTgeNYolDQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/HPf7TRAJkSg</a> Ruth's songs usually were based on double entendres and there is no better example than this -- The Hawaiian Lei Song, one of her most popular. <a href="https://youtu.be/H4PnSX5Oruc?fbclid=IwAR2uZJcjIfkQ6JN3-FdP-fXDiF2IYdsoxeJtEuHb_exfk9bqUaMtwISlVf0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/H4PnSX5Oruc</a>

We think Kids in the Hall are one of the few sketch comedy troupes worthy of a favorable comparison with Monty Python. They specialize in surreal silliness, they link their sketches together in delightfully absurd ways, and they all dress as women when needed! And if you don't agree -- we'll crush your head! Seriously, KITH is one of Canada's finest exports from their first series in the 1980s to the recently released "Season 6". Find out more here, with additional cuts in the comments. And thanks, as always, for sharing our shows! Want more KITH? Part of what made KITH special was how they placed normal human interactions into an absurd context. Here's a clip from the original series in which the idea of a "hard day at the office" is paired with an unusual line of work. https://youtu.be/e1KWyvL9ous KITH wrapped their original series in 1995, so it was a real surprise when they returned to CBC in 2010 with "Death Comes to Town". Instead of short, separate sketches, this show was an eight episode miniseries revolving around one theme. Whatever the structure, the show was a hit and the Kids were in fine form! https://youtu.be/f0pbK5qCmS8 Fans were delighted when KITH announced they would regroup for a sixth season, which was released in May 2022. Reviews were stellar, with Rotten Tomatoes clocking in at 100%. Here's the season six trailer -- and the whole season is well worth your time! https://youtu.be/zm2rAjmH_JQ

We think Kids in the Hall are one of the few sketch comedy troupes worthy of a favorable comparison with Monty Python. They specialize in surreal silliness, they link their sketches together in delightfully absurd ways, and they all dress as women when needed! And if you don't agree -- we'll crush your head! Seriously, KITH is one of Canada's finest exports from their first series in the 1980s to the recently released "Season 6". Find out more here, with additional cuts in the comments. And thanks, as always, for sharing our shows! Want more KITH? Part of what made KITH special was how they placed normal human interactions into an absurd context. Here's a clip from the original series in which the idea of a "hard day at the office" is paired with an unusual line of work. <a href="https://youtu.be/e1KWyvL9ous?fbclid=IwAR1sAc1Agl5N7HS4xnToLDIdwod_3jTBdYEJCBTbyYEnTs3bH3k4hJPm2zo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/e1KWyvL9ous</a> KITH wrapped their original series in 1995, so it was a real surprise when they returned to CBC in 2010 with "Death Comes to Town". Instead of short, separate sketches, this show was an eight episode miniseries revolving around one theme. Whatever the structure, the show was a hit and the Kids were in fine form! <a href="https://youtu.be/f0pbK5qCmS8?fbclid=IwAR0ph_Bjvc2hbao0Lz8n7Jv_wiT0EZdBWGy791dx6i-hAQFbg9mz4Gkfyc0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/f0pbK5qCmS8</a> Fans were delighted when KITH announced they would regroup for a sixth season, which was released in May 2022. Reviews were stellar, with Rotten Tomatoes clocking in at 100%. Here's the season six trailer -- and the whole season is well worth your time! <a href="https://youtu.be/zm2rAjmH_JQ?fbclid=IwAR1DWiyAW0xQ00dz0PTGIlqcbGC42hg5yoRJpe5PnkU1iT82SdmO_c6duQ8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/zm2rAjmH_JQ</a>

Kids in the Hall

Phil Silvers

Phil Silvers was one of the early stars of television and his Sgt. Bilko character remains a small screen classic. Never a standup comic, Phil instead graced tv, movies, and the Broadway stage (winning a Tony Award in the process). Silvers specialized in playing characters who were just a bit shady, but lovable all the same. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Silvers? Phil Silvers was best known for his classic Sgt. Ernie Bilko character that he debuted on The Phil Silvers Show back in 1955. A slightly shady -- yet lovable -- character, Bilko was a master of chutzpah. https://youtu.be/yBLtqMeUCQE Phil Silvers was old school all the way, becoming a welcome presence in movies, on tv, and on the Broadway stage for decades. Here's Phil with Jonathan Winters in the over the top comedy "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World."https://youtu.be/wCGg2dU8bSU

Phil Silvers was one of the early stars of television and his Sgt. Bilko character remains a small screen classic. Never a standup comic, Phil instead graced tv, movies, and the Broadway stage (winning a Tony Award in the process). Silvers specialized in playing characters who were just a bit shady, but lovable all the same. As always, find extra clips below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Silvers? Phil Silvers was best known for his classic Sgt. Ernie Bilko character that he debuted on The Phil Silvers Show back in 1955. A slightly shady -- yet lovable -- character, Bilko was a master of chutzpah. <a href="https://youtu.be/yBLtqMeUCQE?fbclid=IwAR3WnrHOY3tW9qOLRuIeDdzU4CrOKEKlw8NTSEpOAOsDgQmVZL_3gHqqpYU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/yBLtqMeUCQE</a> Phil Silvers was old school all the way, becoming a welcome presence in movies, on tv, and on the Broadway stage for decades. Here's Phil with Jonathan Winters in the over the top comedy "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World."<a href="https://youtu.be/wCGg2dU8bSU?fbclid=IwAR0bUV1bsCA9EneFsyZW4EsckNzbh1YGCXyPcXR3xWkzrG3XZHbNdFxW-9w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/wCGg2dU8bSU</a>

Pat Paulsen

A master of hang dog expressions, laconic delivery, and sharp political satire, Pat Paulsen charmed America in the 1960s with his "editorials" on The Smothers Brothers variety show, eventually launching a (tongue firmly-in-cheek) Presidential campaign. He would go on the reprise the bit in 1992, actually finishing second to George H.W. Bush in the North Dakota GOP primary. And much later, Pat charmed wine lovers with a boutique winery (one that still exists today). As always, find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Pat? When Pat launched his faux campaign in 1968 on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour it took the nation by storm -- and these were the days in which you couldn't rent it, tape it, or stream it -- you had to sit yourself down and watch it. Here Pat in action (and dig Tom and Dick's outfits!)https://youtu.be/0n-kMI25ZcI Pat was best known for his work on the Smothers Brothers variety show, but he also was a fine standup. This clip is taken from his 1970 "Live at the Ice House" set. https://youtu.be/7EnOZA1dcrs Comedy fans were delighted when Pat appeared on the 1992 Smothers Brothers 20 year reunion special. What did he do? Just what he does! https://youtu.be/qn69wP-jD2Y

A master of hang dog expressions, laconic delivery, and sharp political satire, Pat Paulsen charmed America in the 1960s with his "editorials" on The Smothers Brothers variety show, eventually launching a (tongue firmly-in-cheek) Presidential campaign. He would go on the reprise the bit in 1992, actually finishing second to George H.W. Bush in the North Dakota GOP primary. And much later, Pat charmed wine lovers with a boutique winery (one that still exists today). As always, find more clips below and thanks for sharing our shows! Want more Pat? When Pat launched his faux campaign in 1968 on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour it took the nation by storm -- and these were the days in which you couldn't rent it, tape it, or stream it -- you had to sit yourself down and watch it. Here Pat in action (and dig Tom and Dick's outfits!)<a href="https://youtu.be/0n-kMI25ZcI?fbclid=IwAR3TdUe8xVytmpJit7X6Fq0ux-mjiQR3VrgDpswRLI9Xf0emQHwK2dPBbJc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/0n-kMI25ZcI</a> Pat was best known for his work on the Smothers Brothers variety show, but he also was a fine standup. This clip is taken from his 1970 "Live at the Ice House" set. <a href="https://youtu.be/7EnOZA1dcrs?fbclid=IwAR0UUjvxX5w-PRf6u-6E1AtaBYlmIF_58jiYcB1S_F33yxRI6Wb5ExRYip4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/7EnOZA1dcrs</a> Comedy fans were delighted when Pat appeared on the 1992 Smothers Brothers 20 year reunion special. What did he do? Just what he does! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2Fqn69wP-jD2Y%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1erSIdRYM0gC0d8h0YNbFayCylrogeCs6i9NMZQyQQ8NPjzURRiw0bbp0&amp;h=AT0zN5FqQQKUtQUKNOZq9dLBIN0JtSSPq0BmPDlFKSlC1AOy2iZlcOm3t7ZFc7DDeIj67dvEC4QJGWfU0Bjyl4kzi7LvnDB3FU_odybJwGe7mk2EeWYVX1H959pWb9hkeTui4rZbhswttw39TN8oV7c&amp;__tn__=R-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/qn69wP-jD2Y</a>

Harvey Korman

Say hello to the inimitable Harvey Korman who brought his mastery of sketch comedy to the small and big screens for decades. From a humble start voicing cartoons, Harvey became a comic acting powerhouse with a long run on The Carol Burnett Show and many juicy movie roles, especially in Mel Brooks classics such as Blazing Saddles and High Anxiety. And remember -- "It's Head-LEY"! As always, find more Harvey below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Harvey? When Harvey was first getting started he did some cartoon voice work, most notably as space alien "The Great Gazoo" in the Flintstones. Here's a nice collection of some of Harvey/Gazoo's best bits on the show. https://youtu.be/ekfR6RKpfmI Harvey's iconic tv turn came on the Carol Burnett variety show where he was featured for a decade, winning four Emmys and a Golden Globe in the process. There is so much good stuff to choose from, but this sketch stands out. It's Harvey as a nervous dental patient meeting Tim Conway's fresh out of school dentist. No nitrous needed -- these guys supply their own laughing gas. https://youtu.be/9IUSM4EKcRI It's hard to pick just one Harvey character as his best, but in the running has to be his over the top portrayal of crooked Attorney General Headley Lamar in Mel Brooks' Blazing Saddles. His scenes with Mel's corrupt Gov. William J. LePetomane (named for the French "flatulist") are masterclasses in comic timing. https://youtu.be/g2Bp8SqYrnE

Say hello to the inimitable Harvey Korman who brought his mastery of sketch comedy to the small and big screens for decades. From a humble start voicing cartoons, Harvey became a comic acting powerhouse with a long run on The Carol Burnett Show and many juicy movie roles, especially in Mel Brooks classics such as Blazing Saddles and High Anxiety. And remember -- "It's Head-LEY"! As always, find more Harvey below and thanks for sharing our shows. Want more Harvey? When Harvey was first getting started he did some cartoon voice work, most notably as space alien "The Great Gazoo" in the Flintstones. Here's a nice collection of some of Harvey/Gazoo's best bits on the show. <a href="https://youtu.be/ekfR6RKpfmI?fbclid=IwAR1gabvhO6u_Ag2GPjk6wAme0m5DXxS4lWA5TOXFe7D0u-zQO4Z7fO_iUz4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/ekfR6RKpfmI</a> Harvey's iconic tv turn came on the Carol Burnett variety show where he was featured for a decade, winning four Emmys and a Golden Globe in the process. There is so much good stuff to choose from, but this sketch stands out. It's Harvey as a nervous dental patient meeting Tim Conway's fresh out of school dentist. No nitrous needed -- these guys supply their own laughing gas. <a href="https://youtu.be/9IUSM4EKcRI?fbclid=IwAR0UyUoZG6OFDeBUQKnzwm1uYOvuzHrLa_enBm2dghGUEy5nblVSifni_Ms" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/9IUSM4EKcRI</a> It's hard to pick just one Harvey character as his best, but in the running has to be his over the top portrayal of crooked Attorney General Headley Lamar in Mel Brooks' Blazing Saddles. His scenes with Mel's corrupt Gov. William J. LePetomane (named for the French "flatulist") are masterclasses in comic timing. <a href="https://youtu.be/g2Bp8SqYrnE?fbclid=IwAR04SZPcEzP13A45rEJgeFKwM7OMuMTtnwywD25u59RvOKBrJylbKJelrdc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/g2Bp8SqYrnE</a>

Laugh Tracks Legends of Comedy with Randy and Steve

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1 quote, 3 ideas & 1 question from a carefully curated podcast episode.
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