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In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Carlos Mencia talks about growing up in East Los Angeles, and how his early experiences shaped his comedy. He describes developing his racially based stand-up act, and finding healing in making people laugh at our differences. He recounts working with his writers on his show 'Mind of Mencia,' and gives his reaction to political correctness in comedy. Mencia discusses how humor evolves over time, as well as his use of "blue" material in his act. He speaks at length about accusations of his having stolen jokes from other comedians, and sums up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 15, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Diversity in Television, Historic Events and Social Change, Minorities, Television Industry, and Comedy Series. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Mind of Mencia' and 'Seinfeld.'

2007-02-15

In part two of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives, Bill Dana (1924-2017) talks about comedians learning to deal with their environment and audiences. He describes first learning how to make people laugh, and later using comedy to disarm. He discusses evolving standards for subject matter and language in comedy, and his controversial character "Jose Jimenez" from 'The Bill Dana Show. 'Dana speaks of working with Norman Lear on writing the classic 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy’s Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and outlines his own guest shot on 'The Golden Girls.' He sums up by talking about the need for performers to pay their dues, and he answers the question, "Was it worth it?" Jenni Matz conducted part two of the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-06-03

In part one of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Bill Dana (1924-2017) discusses the use of humor as a survival tool. He talks about his time at Emerson College, and early comedy partner Gene Wood. He recalls his time on 'The Steve Allen Show,' as well as creating his most famous character, "Jose Jimenez." He details using "Jose" as the main character for 'The Bill Dana Show,' and his eventual decision to kill him off due to cultural sensitivity concerns. He recounts writing the famous 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and addresses comedy’s role in society. Jenni Matz conducted part one of the interview on February 21, 2005 at the Cutler Majestic Theater at Emerson College in Boston, MA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Censorship/Standards & Practices, Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-02-21

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shecky Greene tells the story of his career in comedy, including his time on the comedy club circuit and performing in Las Vegas. He discusses a variety of topics related to comedy, including the relationship between laughter and depression, creating his own comedic persona, his disinterest in working on television, and surviving in comedy. Greene also addresses his feelings on his first name becoming synonymous with comedians, as well as the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 6, 2005 in Beverly Hills, CA. Additional topics covered include: Television Industry and News and Documentary. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Today.'

2005-06-06

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, Jackie Mason talks about where his comedy comes from, and the process of building his act. He describes his start as a Catskill comedian, where he created his persona, and his first television appearance, on 'The Steve Allen Show.' He details the infamous incident where Ed Sullivan believed he’d held up his middle finger, resulting in him being off television for many years. Mason describes the business aspect of show business, and the role of agents and managers in his career. He recounts his career trajectory, including his resurgence in the 1980s with the Broadway show "Jackie Mason: The World According to Me." Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 7, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is the 'Ed Sullivan Show, The AKA Toast of the Town.'

2005-04-07

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Eddie Brill talks about his early years, and forming a comedy team with Denis Leary at Emerson College. He discusses teaching and learning comedy, as well as how comedians develop their voices. He describes his job as the audience warm-up guy and comedy talent booker for 'Late Show with David Letterman,' as well as his working relationship with Letterman. Brill speaks of how he deals with the business end of show business, and what he gets out of being a comedian. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on October 18, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, and Late Night.

2005-10-18

In his hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Irwin Corey (1914-2017) talks about his status as "the world’s foremost authority" and his comedy style. He discusses the then-current state of comedy on television, and the signature comedy of various performers. Corey speaks of using comedy to put across his political views, and how his comedic style developed over the years. He details some of his experiences with audiences, dealing with the business aspect of show business, and the importance of the comedian taking comedy seriously. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, War on Terror, and Late Night. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Late Night with David Letterman.'

2005-04-08

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Gary Owens (1934-2015) talks about his early career beginning on radio and later drawing a comic strip. He describes working on 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and working with that cast including Lily Tomlin and Goldie Hawn. He recounts various comedians with whom he worked in his career, including Bob Newhart, Mort Sahl, Jackie Mason, Jonathan Winters, and Tim Conway. Owens discusses comedians’ mental health, as well as heath challenges he’d faced in his later years. He concludes by speaking of the importance of imagination in comedy, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on March 14, 2005 in beautiful downtown Burbank, CA. Additional topics covered include: Pop Culture, Comedy Series, Game Shows, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'The Gong Show' and 'McHale's Navy.'

2005-03-14

In his hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Lewis Black talks about his early interest in drama, and what made him decide to be a comedian. He speaks of developing his routine, and crafting his comedic persona that 'The Daily Show' audiences would eventually come to know. Black speaks of anger in comedy, as well as politics, and if comedy can be learned. He discusses the business of show business, and the importance of cultivating longevity in a comedy career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on October 19, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-10-19

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shelley Berman (1925-2017) talks about his early career, and recording his first comedy album, "Inside Shelley Berman." He describes learning how to deal with an audience as a stand-up comedian, and the tools of their trade. He recalls several of his favorite comedians, including Jackie Gleason, Robin Williams, Jim MacGeorge, and Danny Kaye. He discusses the construction of comedy, what makes people laugh, and the evolution of comedy. Berman speaks of the lifting of limitations and censorship on comedians, and what he considers to be the lack of creativity that leads to vulgarity in modern comedy. He talks about the then-future of comedy, and how he feels it is embodied by his 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' co-star Larry David. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on March 8, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Censorship/Standards & Practices, Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, World War II, and Comedy Series.

2005-03-08

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

Mario standing on a circular staircase.

1986-01

1986-02

Mario holding a hanging plant on a balcony.

1986-01

Mario standing in front of large artwork of a Coca Cola can. Mario saluting with serious expression.

1986-01

Mario standing in front of posted dated 1981 with Rolling Stones "tongue and lip" logo. Mario sticking his tongue out, with slumped shoulders.

1986-01

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Carlos Mencia talks about growing up in East Los Angeles, and how his early experiences shaped his comedy. He describes developing his racially based stand-up act, and finding healing in making people laugh at our differences. He recounts working with his writers on his show 'Mind of Mencia,' and gives his reaction to political correctness in comedy. Mencia discusses how humor evolves over time, as well as his use of "blue" material in his act. He speaks at length about accusations of his having stolen jokes from other comedians, and sums up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 15, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Diversity in Television, Historic Events and Social Change, Minorities, Television Industry, and Comedy Series. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Mind of Mencia' and 'Seinfeld.'

2007-02-15

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shecky Greene tells the story of his career in comedy, including his time on the comedy club circuit and performing in Las Vegas. He discusses a variety of topics related to comedy, including the relationship between laughter and depression, creating his own comedic persona, his disinterest in working on television, and surviving in comedy. Greene also addresses his feelings on his first name becoming synonymous with comedians, as well as the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 6, 2005 in Beverly Hills, CA. Additional topics covered include: Television Industry and News and Documentary. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Today.'

2005-06-06

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shecky Greene tells the story of his career in comedy, including his time on the comedy club circuit and performing in Las Vegas. He discusses a variety of topics related to comedy, including the relationship between laughter and depression, creating his own comedic persona, his disinterest in working on television, and surviving in comedy. Greene also addresses his feelings on his first name becoming synonymous with comedians, as well as the then-current state of comedy. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on June 6, 2005 in Beverly Hills, CA. Additional topics covered include: Television Industry and News and Documentary. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Today.'

2005-06-06

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shelley Berman (1925-2017) talks about his early career, and recording his first comedy album, "Inside Shelley Berman." He describes learning how to deal with an audience as a stand-up comedian, and the tools of their trade. He recalls several of his favorite comedians, including Jackie Gleason, Robin Williams, Jim MacGeorge, and Danny Kaye. He discusses the construction of comedy, what makes people laugh, and the evolution of comedy. Berman speaks of the lifting of limitations and censorship on comedians, and what he considers to be the lack of creativity that leads to vulgarity in modern comedy. He talks about the then-future of comedy, and how he feels it is embodied by his 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' co-star Larry David. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on March 8, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Censorship/Standards & Practices, Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, World War II, and Comedy Series.

2005-03-08

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Eddie Brill talks about his early years, and forming a comedy team with Denis Leary at Emerson College. He discusses teaching and learning comedy, as well as how comedians develop their voices. He describes his job as the audience warm-up guy and comedy talent booker for 'Late Show with David Letterman,' as well as his working relationship with Letterman. Brill speaks of how he deals with the business end of show business, and what he gets out of being a comedian. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on October 18, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, and Late Night.

2005-10-18

In his hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Lewis Black talks about his early interest in drama, and what made him decide to be a comedian. He speaks of developing his routine, and crafting his comedic persona that 'The Daily Show' audiences would eventually come to know. Black speaks of anger in comedy, as well as politics, and if comedy can be learned. He discusses the business of show business, and the importance of cultivating longevity in a comedy career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on October 19, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-10-19

In part one of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Bill Dana (1924-2017) discusses the use of humor as a survival tool. He talks about his time at Emerson College, and early comedy partner Gene Wood. He recalls his time on 'The Steve Allen Show,' as well as creating his most famous character, "Jose Jimenez." He details using "Jose" as the main character for 'The Bill Dana Show,' and his eventual decision to kill him off due to cultural sensitivity concerns. He recounts writing the famous 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and addresses comedy’s role in society. Jenni Matz conducted part one of the interview on February 21, 2005 at the Cutler Majestic Theater at Emerson College in Boston, MA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Censorship/Standards & Practices, Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-02-21

In part two of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives, Bill Dana (1924-2017) talks about comedians learning to deal with their environment and audiences. He describes first learning how to make people laugh, and later using comedy to disarm. He discusses evolving standards for subject matter and language in comedy, and his controversial character "Jose Jimenez" from 'The Bill Dana Show. 'Dana speaks of working with Norman Lear on writing the classic 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy’s Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and outlines his own guest shot on 'The Golden Girls.' He sums up by talking about the need for performers to pay their dues, and he answers the question, "Was it worth it?" Jenni Matz conducted part two of the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-06-03

In his hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Irwin Corey (1914-2017) talks about his status as "the world’s foremost authority" and his comedy style. He discusses the then-current state of comedy on television, and the signature comedy of various performers. Corey speaks of using comedy to put across his political views, and how his comedic style developed over the years. He details some of his experiences with audiences, dealing with the business aspect of show business, and the importance of the comedian taking comedy seriously. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, War on Terror, and Late Night. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Late Night with David Letterman.'

2005-04-08

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Gary Owens (1934-2015) talks about his early career beginning on radio and later drawing a comic strip. He describes working on 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and working with that cast including Lily Tomlin and Goldie Hawn. He recounts various comedians with whom he worked in his career, including Bob Newhart, Mort Sahl, Jackie Mason, Jonathan Winters, and Tim Conway. Owens discusses comedians’ mental health, as well as heath challenges he’d faced in his later years. He concludes by speaking of the importance of imagination in comedy, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on March 14, 2005 in beautiful downtown Burbank, CA. Additional topics covered include: Pop Culture, Comedy Series, Game Shows, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'The Gong Show' and 'McHale's Navy.'

2005-03-14

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Gary Owens (1934-2015) talks about his early career beginning on radio and later drawing a comic strip. He describes working on 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,' and working with that cast including Lily Tomlin and Goldie Hawn. He recounts various comedians with whom he worked in his career, including Bob Newhart, Mort Sahl, Jackie Mason, Jonathan Winters, and Tim Conway. Owens discusses comedians’ mental health, as well as heath challenges he’d faced in his later years. He concludes by speaking of the importance of imagination in comedy, and summing up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on March 14, 2005 in beautiful downtown Burbank, CA. Additional topics covered include: Pop Culture, Comedy Series, Game Shows, and Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'The Gong Show' and 'McHale's Navy.'

2005-03-14

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jackie Mason talks about where his comedy comes from, and the process of building his act. He describes his start as a Catskill comedian, where he created his persona, and his first television appearance, on 'The Steve Allen Show.' He details the infamous incident where Ed Sullivan believed he’d held up his middle finger, resulting in him being off television for many years. Mason describes the business aspect of show business, and the role of agents and managers in his career. He recounts his career trajectory, including his resurgence in the 1980s with the Broadway show "Jackie Mason: The World According to Me." Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 7, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is the 'Ed Sullivan Show, The AKA Toast of the Town.'

2005-04-07

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jackie Mason talks about where his comedy comes from, and the process of building his act. He describes his start as a Catskill comedian, where he created his persona, and his first television appearance, on 'The Steve Allen Show.' He details the infamous incident where Ed Sullivan believed he’d held up his middle finger, resulting in him being off television for many years. Mason describes the business aspect of show business, and the role of agents and managers in his career. He recounts his career trajectory, including his resurgence in the 1980s with the Broadway show "Jackie Mason: The World According to Me." Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 7, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Music Shows & Variety Shows/Specials, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is the 'Ed Sullivan Show, The AKA Toast of the Town.'

2005-04-07

In his two-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Shelley Berman (1925-2017) talks about his early career, and recording his first comedy album, "Inside Shelley Berman." He describes learning how to deal with an audience as a stand-up comedian, and the tools of their trade. He recalls several of his favorite comedians, including Jackie Gleason, Robin Williams, Jim MacGeorge, and Danny Kaye. He discusses the construction of comedy, what makes people laugh, and the evolution of comedy. Berman speaks of the lifting of limitations and censorship on comedians, and what he considers to be the lack of creativity that leads to vulgarity in modern comedy. He talks about the then-future of comedy, and how he feels it is embodied by his 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' co-star Larry David. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on March 8, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Censorship/Standards & Practices, Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, World War II, and Comedy Series.

2005-03-08

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 hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Lewis Black talks about his early interest in drama, and what made him decide to be a comedian. He speaks of developing his routine, and crafting his comedic persona that 'The Daily Show' audiences would eventually come to know. Black speaks of anger in comedy, as well as politics, and if comedy can be learned. He discusses the business of show business, and the importance of cultivating longevity in a comedy career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on October 19, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, and Talk Shows. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'The Steve Allen Show' (1956-61).

2005-10-19

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Eddie Brill talks about his early years, and forming a comedy team with Denis Leary at Emerson College. He discusses teaching and learning comedy, as well as how comedians develop their voices. He describes his job as the audience warm-up guy and comedy talent booker for 'Late Show with David Letterman,' as well as his working relationship with Letterman. Brill speaks of how he deals with the business end of show business, and what he gets out of being a comedian. Jenni Matz and Bill Dana conducted the interview on October 18, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Creative Influences and Inspiration, Pivotal Career Moments, and Late Night.

2005-10-18

In his hour-and-a-half interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Irwin Corey (1914-2017) talks about his status as "the world’s foremost authority" and his comedy style. He discusses the then-current state of comedy on television, and the signature comedy of various performers. Corey speaks of using comedy to put across his political views, and how his comedic style developed over the years. He details some of his experiences with audiences, dealing with the business aspect of show business, and the importance of the comedian taking comedy seriously. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on April 8, 2005 in New York, NY. Additional topics covered include: Historic Events and Social Change, Television Industry, War, War on Terror, and Late Night. An additional show mentioned during the interview is 'Late Night with David Letterman.'

2005-04-08

In part one of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Bill Dana (1924-2017) discusses the use of humor as a survival tool. He talks about his time at Emerson College, and early comedy partner Gene Wood. He recalls his time on 'The Steve Allen Show,' as well as creating his most famous character, "Jose Jimenez." He details using "Jose" as the main character for 'The Bill Dana Show,' and his eventual decision to kill him off due to cultural sensitivity concerns. He recounts writing the famous 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and addresses comedy’s role in society. Jenni Matz conducted part one of the interview on February 21, 2005 at the Cutler Majestic Theater at Emerson College in Boston, MA. Additional topics covered include: Bloopers, Censorship/Standards & Practices, Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-02-21

In part two of his two-part interview for the American Comedy Archives, Bill Dana (1924-2017) talks about comedians learning to deal with their environment and audiences. He describes first learning how to make people laugh, and later using comedy to disarm. He discusses evolving standards for subject matter and language in comedy, and his controversial character "Jose Jimenez" from 'The Bill Dana Show. 'Dana speaks of working with Norman Lear on writing the classic 'All in the Family' episode "Sammy’s Visit," featuring Sammy Davis, Jr., and outlines his own guest shot on 'The Golden Girls.' He sums up by talking about the need for performers to pay their dues, and he answers the question, "Was it worth it?" Jenni Matz conducted part two of the interview on June 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, CA. Additional topics covered include: Fame and Celebrity, Pop Culture, Television Industry, Comedy Series, and Talk Shows.

2005-06-03

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, Carlos Mencia talks about growing up in East Los Angeles, and how his early experiences shaped his comedy. He describes developing his racially based stand-up act, and finding healing in making people laugh at our differences. He recounts working with his writers on his show 'Mind of Mencia,' and gives his reaction to political correctness in comedy. Mencia discusses how humor evolves over time, as well as his use of "blue" material in his act. He speaks at length about accusations of his having stolen jokes from other comedians, and sums up his career. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 15, 2007 in Hollywood, CA. Additional topics covered include: Advice, Diversity in Television, Historic Events and Social Change, Minorities, Television Industry, and Comedy Series. Other shows mentioned during the interview include 'Mind of Mencia' and 'Seinfeld.'

2007-02-15

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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