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In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Arte Johnson (1929-2019) talks about transitioning from doing publicity at Viking Press to show business and his first audition for "Gentleman Prefer Blondes." He recounts his first experience working with Jack Benny and working on the comedy series "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In." He talks about ad-libbing and using double-talk and different dialects to create ethnic characters. He also discusses what makes a comedian, and how it's important to have a back-up career during down-turns in their show business career. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on June 2, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Daytime/Primetime Serials, and Game Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include '3-2-1 Contact,' 'The Andy Griffith Show,' 'The Dick Van Dyke Show,' 'The Donna Reed Show,' 'Don’t Call me Charlie,' 'Fantasy Island,' 'The Gong Show,' 'It’s Always Jan,' 'The Jack Benny Program,' 'Knockout,' 'Lost in Space,' 'The Love Boat,' 'Mama,' 'The Partridge Family,' 'Playboy after Dark,' 'Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,' and 'Sally.'

2005-06-02

In his three-hour interview, Billy Crystal talks about his early life, and becoming interested in comedy at a young age. He describes attending NYU to study film, where he learned from Martin Scorsese, and met Christopher Guest. He recounts getting Buddy Morra to manage him, and his appearances on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'All in the Family.' He recalls his disappointment at being bumped off the first broadcast of 'Saturday Night Live,' only to be picked up as a regular cast member on ABC’s 'Saturday Night Live with Howard Cosell'. Crystal discusses playing the groundbreaking character of "Jodie Dallas" on 'Soap,' the first regular, gay character on a network series, and the show’s dealing with controversial subject matter on a weekly basis. He details his stint on the 1984-85 season of 'Saturday Night Live,' where he was part of a comedy all-star team selected by producer Dick Ebersol, which also included Martin Short, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer. He outlines his popular character "Fernando" from the show, whose catchphrase, "You look marvelous," swept the nation. He recalls his series of successful HBO stand-up comedy specials, and his huge success as a nine-time host of 'The Academy Awards.' Dan Pasternack conducted the interview in partnership with the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College on October 25, 2018 in North Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Emmy Awards, Historic Events and Social Change, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Daytime/Primetime Serials, Late Night, and Music Shows & Variety. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'The Billy Crystal Comedy Hour,' 'Comic Relief Specials,' 'The Emmy Awards (Primetime and Daytime),' and 'The Grammys.'

2018-10-25

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Tony Roberts talks about his early life and growing up around famous people like Zero Mostel, and how that led to his interest in becoming a comedic performer. He describes his comedic influences, including Hiram Sherman, Laurel and Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, and Milton Berle, with whom he worked in Las Vegas on his first show business job at age 23. Roberts discusses various aspects of being a comedic actor, including doing improv, playing to an audience, and his distaste for television sitcoms. He concludes by outlining the ups and downs of his career, and how he’s enjoyed acting overall. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Hollywood Blacklist, Industry Crossroads, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, and Comedy Series.

2005-04-08

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jack Riley (1924-2016) talks about his early years and performing sketches in college. He recalls his first job in television, as a writer for 'The Don Rickles Show,' and how he has dealt with managers and agents over his career. He discusses stints acting on 'The Joey Bishop Show,' 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and his friendship with Don Adams’ brother Dick Yarmy, which led to the creation of the "Yarmy’s Army" group of friends. Riley recounts playing the memorable character of "Elliott Carlin" on several episodes of 'The Bob Newhart Show,' as well as working with Newhart over the years. He details the many who have influenced his acting and comedy, including people like Jackie Gleason and Jonathan Winters. He concludes by playing a few of his comedic song compositions. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 14, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Characters & Catchphrases, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Joey Bishop Show (1967-69).'

2007-02-14

In his two-hour Emerson Comedy Archives interview, Fred Willard talks about how he got his career started, first as a stand-up comedian, and then as a member of the Ace Trucking Company comedy troupe. He talks about developing his act, and being cast as "Jerry Hubbard" on the cult classic show 'Fernwood 2 Night.' He gives his opinion on several comedians including Don Rickles, Shecky Greene, Jackie Mason, and Lenny Bruce, as well as the rise of "blue" humor, and political correctness in comedy. He recalls appearing on several talk shows, including 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,' 'The Mike Douglas Show,' and others. He discusses his level of fame, and going out on auditions. He concludes with advice to aspiring comedians, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 7, 2005, in Encino, California. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Late Night, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include the 'Ed Sullivan Show: The AKA Toast of the Town,' 'Everybody Loves Raymond,' and 'Frasier.'

2005-06-07

In his two-and-a-half hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Chuck McCann (1934-2018) talks about his early life, and seeing many performers on stage as a child, including Danny Thomas and Abbott and Costello, due to his father being a musician. He speaks of his early television work, including 'The Rootie Kazootie Club,' 'The Sandy Becker Show,' and 'Today,' which led to him hosting his own local children’s show on WPIX in New York City. McCann recalls his friendships with many luminaries, including Jerry Lewis, Stan Laurel, Mae West, Ernie Kovacs, and Steve Allen. He discusses the power of laughter to make us heal, and the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 13, 2007 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Comedy-Variety, and TV's Golden Age (1940s & '50s), Technological Innovation, Television Industry, Children's Programming, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Captain Kangaroo' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2007-02-13

In his one-and-a-half-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Charles Grodin talks about his writing career, and writing for specific audiences. He describes his acting training under Uta Hagen, who taught the importance of listening and knowing your lines cold. He speaks of appearing in several feature films, including "Rosemary’s Baby," "King Kong," and "Catch-22." He discusses his talk show "persona," perfected on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'Late Night with David Letterman.' Grodin details his experiences as the host of his own show, 'The Charles Grodin Show,' on CNBC, as well as his time as a commentator for '60 Minutes.' He chronicles his many dealings with agents and managers over the years, and opines on the role of comedy in history. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on February 23, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows

2005-02-23

In his nearly two-and-a-half hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Steven Wright, talks about his early comedic career and his anxiety performing in front of audiences. He also discusses his first performance at the 'Comedy Connection' at Charles Street Playhouse on Warrenton Street in Boston, performing at Ding Ho, a Chinese restaurant in Inman Square in Cambridge, MA where producer Peter LaSalle saw him and booked him for 'The Tonight Show.' He reminisces about attending Emerson College and how the atmosphere, students, and Emerson Comedy Workshop inspired his creativity. He also discusses learning different techniques when performing in front of an audience and coming up with material. He recounts working with several friends, like Mike McDonald, and how other comedians, like Woody Allen, George Carlin, and Johnny Carson and listening to comedy albums, influenced his writing. He also discusses how several "flukes" helped his career, including him getting the role in Quentin Tarantino's film, "Reservoir Dogs." Eddie Brill and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 10, 2019 in Boston, MA at Emerson College. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, and Comedy. Also, discusses performances, writing short films, and roles in films and television series, such as 'Desperately Seeking Susan,' 'Mad About You,' 'One Soldier,' and 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.'

2019-06-10

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Ed Begley, Jr. talks about being cast on 'St. Elsewhere,' and recalls his father, Ed Begley, Sr. allowing him to make the choice to be an actor. He recounts realizing he had a flair for comedy at a young age, as well as his very first acting job on 'My Three Sons.' Begley describes his early standup act with a young Michael Richards, and expounds on his philosophy of comedy, and on his style. He touches on his favorite comedians, as well as the importance of managers and agents in a comedian’s career. He outlines his long-standing environmental advocacy, and offers advice to aspiring comedians. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on May 31, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Medical Dramas, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Maude' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-05-31

In his ninety-minute interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Pat Harrington, Jr. (1929-2016) talks about his father Pat Harrington, and his career on stage. He recalls meeting Jonathan Winters, which led to several shots on 'Tonight Starring Jack Paar.' He talks about appearing on 'The Steve Allen Show' with performers like Bill Dana, and doing characters, the most famous being "Guido Panzini." Harrington discusses his stint on Norman Lear’s classic sitcom 'One Day at a Time' as building superintendent "Dwayne Schneider." He details the popularity of 'One Day at a Time,' and how the show dealt with co-star Mackenzie Phillips’ drug issues. He concludes by discussing his longevity in show business, and the importance of networking in one’s career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law,'

2005-06-03

1986-04-02

Lead character, Spenser, lived in Boston and location shooting for Spenser for Hire was filmed mostly in the city of Boston.

1985-11-07

Betty Hutton is pictured with Emerson alum, professor & trustee Kenneth Crannell. In 1985, Betty Hutton received an Award of Achievement from the Musical Theater Society of Emerson College for her contributions to musical theater. Other recipients of this award include: Eve Arden, Gregory Hines and Ben Vereen. Hutton (known for Annie Get Your Gun) taught drama at Salve Regina and comedic acting at Emerson College. Location: Fireplace Theatre.

1985-11-06

In his one-and-a-half-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Charles Grodin talks about his writing career, and writing for specific audiences. He describes his acting training under Uta Hagen, who taught the importance of listening and knowing your lines cold. He speaks of appearing in several feature films, including "Rosemary’s Baby," "King Kong," and "Catch-22." He discusses his talk show "persona," perfected on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'Late Night with David Letterman.' Grodin details his experiences as the host of his own show, 'The Charles Grodin Show,' on CNBC, as well as his time as a commentator for '60 Minutes.' He chronicles his many dealings with agents and managers over the years, and opines on the role of comedy in history. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on February 23, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows

2005-02-23

In his ninety-minute interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Pat Harrington, Jr. (1929-2016) talks about his father Pat Harrington, and his career on stage. He recalls meeting Jonathan Winters, which led to several shots on 'Tonight Starring Jack Paar.' He talks about appearing on 'The Steve Allen Show' with performers like Bill Dana, and doing characters, the most famous being "Guido Panzini." Harrington discusses his stint on Norman Lear’s classic sitcom 'One Day at a Time' as building superintendent "Dwayne Schneider." He details the popularity of 'One Day at a Time,' and how the show dealt with co-star Mackenzie Phillips’ drug issues. He concludes by discussing his longevity in show business, and the importance of networking in one’s career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law,'

2005-06-03

In his ninety-minute interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Pat Harrington, Jr. (1929-2016) talks about his father Pat Harrington, and his career on stage. He recalls meeting Jonathan Winters, which led to several shots on 'Tonight Starring Jack Paar.' He talks about appearing on 'The Steve Allen Show' with performers like Bill Dana, and doing characters, the most famous being "Guido Panzini." Harrington discusses his stint on Norman Lear’s classic sitcom 'One Day at a Time' as building superintendent "Dwayne Schneider." He details the popularity of 'One Day at a Time,' and how the show dealt with co-star Mackenzie Phillips’ drug issues. He concludes by discussing his longevity in show business, and the importance of networking in one’s career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law,'

2005-06-03

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Ed Begley, Jr. talks about being cast on 'St. Elsewhere,' and recalls his father, Ed Begley, Sr. allowing him to make the choice to be an actor. He recounts realizing he had a flair for comedy at a young age, as well as his very first acting job on 'My Three Sons.' Begley describes his early standup act with a young Michael Richards, and expounds on his philosophy of comedy, and on his style. He touches on his favorite comedians, as well as the importance of managers and agents in a comedian’s career. He outlines his long-standing environmental advocacy, and offers advice to aspiring comedians. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on May 31, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Medical Dramas, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Maude' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-05-31

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Arte Johnson (1929-2019) talks about transitioning from doing publicity at Viking Press to show business and his first audition for "Gentleman Prefer Blondes." He recounts his first experience working with Jack Benny and working on the comedy series "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In." He talks about ad-libbing and using double-talk and different dialects to create ethnic characters. He also discusses what makes a comedian, and how it's important to have a back-up career during down-turns in their show business career. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on June 2, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Daytime/Primetime Serials, and Game Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include '3-2-1 Contact,' 'The Andy Griffith Show,' 'The Dick Van Dyke Show,' 'The Donna Reed Show,' 'Don’t Call me Charlie,' 'Fantasy Island,' 'The Gong Show,' 'It’s Always Jan,' 'The Jack Benny Program,' 'Knockout,' 'Lost in Space,' 'The Love Boat,' 'Mama,' 'The Partridge Family,' 'Playboy after Dark,' 'Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,' and 'Sally.'

2005-06-02

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jack Riley (1924-2016) talks about his early years and performing sketches in college. He recalls his first job in television, as a writer for 'The Don Rickles Show,' and how he has dealt with managers and agents over his career. He discusses stints acting on 'The Joey Bishop Show,' 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and his friendship with Don Adams’ brother Dick Yarmy, which led to the creation of the "Yarmy’s Army" group of friends. Riley recounts playing the memorable character of "Elliott Carlin" on several episodes of 'The Bob Newhart Show,' as well as working with Newhart over the years. He details the many who have influenced his acting and comedy, including people like Jackie Gleason and Jonathan Winters. He concludes by playing a few of his comedic song compositions. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 14, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Characters & Catchphrases, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Joey Bishop Show (1967-69).'

2007-02-14

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jack Riley (1924-2016) talks about his early years and performing sketches in college. He recalls his first job in television, as a writer for 'The Don Rickles Show,' and how he has dealt with managers and agents over his career. He discusses stints acting on 'The Joey Bishop Show,' 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and his friendship with Don Adams’ brother Dick Yarmy, which led to the creation of the "Yarmy’s Army" group of friends. Riley recounts playing the memorable character of "Elliott Carlin" on several episodes of 'The Bob Newhart Show,' as well as working with Newhart over the years. He details the many who have influenced his acting and comedy, including people like Jackie Gleason and Jonathan Winters. He concludes by playing a few of his comedic song compositions. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 14, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Characters & Catchphrases, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Joey Bishop Show (1967-69).'

2007-02-14

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Tony Roberts talks about his early life and growing up around famous people like Zero Mostel, and how that led to his interest in becoming a comedic performer. He describes his comedic influences, including Hiram Sherman, Laurel and Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, and Milton Berle, with whom he worked in Las Vegas on his first show business job at age 23. Roberts discusses various aspects of being a comedic actor, including doing improv, playing to an audience, and his distaste for television sitcoms. He concludes by outlining the ups and downs of his career, and how he’s enjoyed acting overall. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Hollywood Blacklist, Industry Crossroads, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, and Comedy Series.

2005-04-08

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Tony Roberts talks about his early life and growing up around famous people like Zero Mostel, and how that led to his interest in becoming a comedic performer. He describes his comedic influences, including Hiram Sherman, Laurel and Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, and Milton Berle, with whom he worked in Las Vegas on his first show business job at age 23. Roberts discusses various aspects of being a comedic actor, including doing improv, playing to an audience, and his distaste for television sitcoms. He concludes by outlining the ups and downs of his career, and how he’s enjoyed acting overall. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Hollywood Blacklist, Industry Crossroads, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, and Comedy Series.

2005-04-08

In his two-hour Emerson Comedy Archives interview, Fred Willard talks about how he got his career started, first as a stand-up comedian, and then as a member of the Ace Trucking Company comedy troupe. He talks about developing his act, and being cast as "Jerry Hubbard" on the cult classic show 'Fernwood 2 Night.' He gives his opinion on several comedians including Don Rickles, Shecky Greene, Jackie Mason, and Lenny Bruce, as well as the rise of "blue" humor, and political correctness in comedy. He recalls appearing on several talk shows, including 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,' 'The Mike Douglas Show,' and others. He discusses his level of fame, and going out on auditions. He concludes with advice to aspiring comedians, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 7, 2005, in Encino, California. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Late Night, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include the 'Ed Sullivan Show: The AKA Toast of the Town,' 'Everybody Loves Raymond,' and 'Frasier.'

2005-06-07

In his two-hour Emerson Comedy Archives interview, Fred Willard talks about how he got his career started, first as a stand-up comedian, and then as a member of the Ace Trucking Company comedy troupe. He talks about developing his act, and being cast as "Jerry Hubbard" on the cult classic show 'Fernwood 2 Night.' He gives his opinion on several comedians including Don Rickles, Shecky Greene, Jackie Mason, and Lenny Bruce, as well as the rise of "blue" humor, and political correctness in comedy. He recalls appearing on several talk shows, including 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,' 'The Mike Douglas Show,' and others. He discusses his level of fame, and going out on auditions. He concludes with advice to aspiring comedians, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 7, 2005, in Encino, California. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Late Night, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include the 'Ed Sullivan Show: The AKA Toast of the Town,' 'Everybody Loves Raymond,' and 'Frasier.'

2005-06-07

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Ed Begley, Jr. talks about being cast on 'St. Elsewhere,' and recalls his father, Ed Begley, Sr. allowing him to make the choice to be an actor. He recounts realizing he had a flair for comedy at a young age, as well as his very first acting job on 'My Three Sons.' Begley describes his early standup act with a young Michael Richards, and expounds on his philosophy of comedy, and on his style. He touches on his favorite comedians, as well as the importance of managers and agents in a comedian’s career. He outlines his long-standing environmental advocacy, and offers advice to aspiring comedians. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on May 31, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Medical Dramas, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Maude' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-05-31

In his two-and-a-half hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Chuck McCann (1934-2018) talks about his early life, and seeing many performers on stage as a child, including Danny Thomas and Abbott and Costello, due to his father being a musician. He speaks of his early television work, including 'The Rootie Kazootie Club,' 'The Sandy Becker Show,' and 'Today,' which led to him hosting his own local children’s show on WPIX in New York City. McCann recalls his friendships with many luminaries, including Jerry Lewis, Stan Laurel, Mae West, Ernie Kovacs, and Steve Allen. He discusses the power of laughter to make us heal, and the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 13, 2007 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Comedy-Variety, and TV's Golden Age (1940s & '50s), Technological Innovation, Television Industry, Children's Programming, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Captain Kangaroo' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2007-02-13

In his two-and-a-half hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Chuck McCann (1934-2018) talks about his early life, and seeing many performers on stage as a child, including Danny Thomas and Abbott and Costello, due to his father being a musician. He speaks of his early television work, including 'The Rootie Kazootie Club,' 'The Sandy Becker Show,' and 'Today,' which led to him hosting his own local children’s show on WPIX in New York City. McCann recalls his friendships with many luminaries, including Jerry Lewis, Stan Laurel, Mae West, Ernie Kovacs, and Steve Allen. He discusses the power of laughter to make us heal, and the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 13, 2007 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Comedy-Variety, and TV's Golden Age (1940s & '50s), Technological Innovation, Television Industry, Children's Programming, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Captain Kangaroo' and 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2007-02-13

In his three-hour interview, Billy Crystal talks about his early life, and becoming interested in comedy at a young age. He describes attending NYU to study film, where he learned from Martin Scorsese, and met Christopher Guest. He recounts getting Buddy Morra to manage him, and his appearances on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'All in the Family.' He recalls his disappointment at being bumped off the first broadcast of 'Saturday Night Live,' only to be picked up as a regular cast member on ABC’s 'Saturday Night Live with Howard Cosell'. Crystal discusses playing the groundbreaking character of "Jodie Dallas" on 'Soap,' the first regular, gay character on a network series, and the show’s dealing with controversial subject matter on a weekly basis. He details his stint on the 1984-85 season of 'Saturday Night Live,' where he was part of a comedy all-star team selected by producer Dick Ebersol, which also included Martin Short, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer. He outlines his popular character "Fernando" from the show, whose catchphrase, "You look marvelous," swept the nation. He recalls his series of successful HBO stand-up comedy specials, and his huge success as a nine-time host of 'The Academy Awards.' Dan Pasternack conducted the interview in partnership with the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College on October 25, 2018 in North Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Emmy Awards, Historic Events and Social Change, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Daytime/Primetime Serials, Late Night, and Music Shows & Variety. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'The Billy Crystal Comedy Hour,' 'Comic Relief Specials,' 'The Emmy Awards (Primetime and Daytime),' and 'The Grammys.'

2018-10-25

In his one-and-a-half-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Charles Grodin talks about his writing career, and writing for specific audiences. He describes his acting training under Uta Hagen, who taught the importance of listening and knowing your lines cold. He speaks of appearing in several feature films, including "Rosemary’s Baby," "King Kong," and "Catch-22." He discusses his talk show "persona," perfected on 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'Late Night with David Letterman.' Grodin details his experiences as the host of his own show, 'The Charles Grodin Show,' on CNBC, as well as his time as a commentator for '60 Minutes.' He chronicles his many dealings with agents and managers over the years, and opines on the role of comedy in history. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on February 23, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, News and Documentary, and Talk Shows

2005-02-23

In his nearly two-and-a-half hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Steven Wright, talks about his early comedic career and his anxiety performing in front of audiences. He also discusses his first performance at the 'Comedy Connection' at Charles Street Playhouse on Warrenton Street in Boston, performing at Ding Ho, a Chinese restaurant in Inman Square in Cambridge, MA where producer Peter LaSalle saw him and booked him for 'The Tonight Show.' He reminisces about attending Emerson College and how the atmosphere, students, and Emerson Comedy Workshop inspired his creativity. He also discusses learning different techniques when performing in front of an audience and coming up with material. He recounts working with several friends, like Mike McDonald, and how other comedians, like Woody Allen, George Carlin, and Johnny Carson and listening to comedy albums, influenced his writing. He also discusses how several "flukes" helped his career, including him getting the role in Quentin Tarantino's film, "Reservoir Dogs." Eddie Brill and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 10, 2019 in Boston, MA at Emerson College. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, and Comedy. Also, discusses performances, writing short films, and roles in films and television series, such as 'Desperately Seeking Susan,' 'Mad About You,' 'One Soldier,' and 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.'

2019-06-10

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Arte Johnson (1929-2019) talks about transitioning from doing publicity at Viking Press to show business and his first audition for "Gentleman Prefer Blondes." He recounts his first experience working with Jack Benny and working on the comedy series "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In." He talks about ad-libbing and using double-talk and different dialects to create ethnic characters. He also discusses what makes a comedian, and how it's important to have a back-up career during down-turns in their show business career. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on June 2, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, Television Industry, Comedy Series, Daytime/Primetime Serials, and Game Shows. Other shows mentioned during the interview include '3-2-1 Contact,' 'The Andy Griffith Show,' 'The Dick Van Dyke Show,' 'The Donna Reed Show,' 'Don’t Call me Charlie,' 'Fantasy Island,' 'The Gong Show,' 'It’s Always Jan,' 'The Jack Benny Program,' 'Knockout,' 'Lost in Space,' 'The Love Boat,' 'Mama,' 'The Partridge Family,' 'Playboy after Dark,' 'Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,' and 'Sally.'

2005-06-02

The American Comedy Archives Oral Histories consists of audiovisual interviews conducted by comedian Bill Dana, archivist/historian Jenni Matz, comedian Eddie Brill, archivist/historian Robert Fleming, and television producer/professor Dan Pasternack with comedians, directors, writers, producers, agents, and experts on comedy. Oral history interviews were conducted with Bea Arthur, Ed Begley, Jr., Shelley Berman, Lewis Black, Kevin Bright, Eddie Brill, Jack Carter, Dick Cavett, Tim Conway, Irwin Corey, Norm Crosby, Billy Crystal, Bill Dana, Sam Denoff, Vin DiBona, Phyllis Diller, Diane English, Barbara Feldon, Budd Friedman, Larry Gelbart, Shecky Greene, Dick Gregory, Charles Grodin, Pat Harrington, Jr., Hugh Hefner, Buck Henry, Doug Herzog, Arte Johnson, Austin "Rocky" Kalish, Irma Kalish, Hal Kanter, Don Knotts, Norman Lear, Rose Marie, Peter Marshall, Dick Martin, Jamie Masada, Jackie Mason, Chuck McCann, Jayne Meadows, Carlos Mencia, Howard Murray, Jan Murray, Bob Newhart, Louis Nye, Gary Owens, Janis Paige, Bill Persky, Tom Poston, Carl Reiner, Jack Riley, Tony Roberts, Paul Rodriguez, Andy Rooney, Jay Sandrich, George Schlatter, George Shapiro, Leonard Stern, Howard Storm, Tracey Ullman, Dick Van Dyke, Dick Van Patten, Betty White, Fred Willard, Henry Winkler, Jonathan Winters, Steven Wright, and "Weird Al" Yankovic. The bulk of the interviews were originally recorded on DVcam tapes from February 2005 through May 2007 and duplicated at Emerson College. Some of the oral histories were done in conjunction with the American Television Foundation. In addition to the video oral histories there are transcripts for certain interviews.

2005-02-21 - 2020-01-30

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