The 1980s Stand-Up Comedy Boom: Part Deux

The 1980s Stand-Up Comedy Boom: Part Deux

May 13, 2026 · 40 min

About this episode

This episode explores the rise of stand-up comedy in the 1980s and its impact on mainstream entertainment.

In part one, we looked at the origins of stand-up comedy and its evolution through the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Then, as we head into the 1980s, some big things happen. A strike, mainstream exposure, and the rise of comedy clubs everywhere took the industry from smoky clubs to a major part of mainstream entertainment. Today, we look at several of the breakout comedians -- including a few controversial ones -- who not only defined the 1980s but also became some of the biggest stars in the history of entertainment. Then, we look at how the stand-up comedians of the 80s became the go-to choices by the networks to star in some of the most popular sitcoms and talk shows of all time. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s

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