What’s The Biggest Misconception About Comedians?

Hmmm

So many to choose from but the first one that comes to mind is that we are always on. We are not. In fact, its almost annoying when a comedian tried to be. I did a show this week where I did not speak for the 12+ hours I was awake until my show that night. And I was not alone for the hours leading up to the show!

I can’t speak for other comedians but I know the group of comedians I am close with and we are not trying to “be on” when were are just hanging out, especially before a show in the green room. We will make passing funny comments or riffs when the opportunity presents but its not like a podcast 24/7. When comedian friends have not seen each other for a while, its obviously “on” time, especially for Gen X comedians who like to bust each others chops to the point where outsiders watching will think we don’t like each other.

Most times, however, we are just talking about life, events happening or social media in the green room. Newer comedians have a tendency to try to be on and thats fine. I was the same as well. Sadly the social media algorithm dominates most conversations these days. And there is nothing “fun” or “funny” about that.

After shows, however, when we are just hanging out in our comfort zone of comedians, its usually on, especially after a good show. There is no place more fun than hanging out with other comedians after a good show in a green room, lounge or dive bar.

But generally speaking, we are mostly quiet, reserved and boring. Sorry. Please subscribe to my Substack and ask me a question and follow me on Instagram though #standup #comedy #formerlawyer

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