The History of Comedy

The History of Comedy (2017-2018)

EndedDocumentary showComedy, History

The History of Comedy explores what makes people laugh – from the Ancient Greeks to Shakespeare, Vaudeville to the biggest contemporary comedians, movies, and TV shows. It digs deep into topics like political humor and slapstick, featuring the voices that have made us laugh over the generations. The series showcases how the art form has evolved over the years using archival footage, original comedic material, interviews with comedy legends, and luminaries.

Season 2 is a six-part CNN Original Series executive produced by Sean Hayes and Todd Milliner (Hazy Mills) and Emmy Award winners Mark Herzog and Christopher G. Cowen (Herzog & Company). Using archival footage punctuated by contemporary interviews with comedy legends, scholars, and current stars, The History of Comedy explores the spinning gears that make the comedic mind tick. From teams & duos, animation to improv & sketch, the series examines not only what makes us laugh but how comedy has affected the social and political landscape throughout history.

Network
Scheduleevery Sunday at 22:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

No Offense (Going Clean/Flipping Funny)
Season 2Episode 660 min

No Offense (Going Clean/Flipping Funny)

There has always been a need for family-friendly comedy, and many artists have taken the task despite the inherent challenges. Comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan, Ellen DeGeneres and Sinbad found success on stage "working clean." For comedians like Bob Saget, Tim Allen, and Whitney Cummings, they found themselves altering their comedic voices when they landed lead roles on network sitcoms. Writers for television shows across every era – from I Love Lucy and In Living Color, to Will & Grace and Modern Family have always found creative ways to use euphemisms and innuendo, while still abiding by the rules set by the what were often strict network censors.

Aug. 19, 2018

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S02E06No Offense (Going Clean/Flipping Funny)Aug. 19, 2018
S02E05In It TogetherAug. 12, 2018
S02E04Gone Too SoonAug. 5, 2018
S02E03Drawn to Be FunnyJuli 29, 2018
S02E02Sketch and ImprovJuli 22, 2018
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The History of Comedy' premiere?

'The History of Comedy' premiered on February 9, 2017.

Who is the host of 'The History of Comedy'?

'The History of Comedy' is hosted by comedian and actor Sean Hayes.

How many episodes are there in the first season of 'The History of Comedy'?

The first season of 'The History of Comedy' consists of eight episodes.

Which famous comedian is featured in the episode titled "One Nation, Under Comedy"?

The episode titled "One Nation, Under Comedy" features the legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld.

Who directed the episode titled "Spark of Madness"?

The episode "Spark of Madness" was directed by comedian and filmmaker Judd Apatow.

Which episode explores the impact of comedy on politics and social change?

The episode titled "The Funnier Sex" explores the impact of comedy on politics and social change.

In the episode "Going Blue," which aspect of comedy is discussed?

The episode "Going Blue" explores the use of blue or adult humor in comedy.

Which iconic comedy duo is featured in the episode titled "The Comedy Team"?

The episode "The Comedy Team" features the iconic comedy duo Abbott and Costello.

Who is the guest interviewed in the episode titled "Making Fun"?

The guest interviewed in the episode "Making Fun" is actor and comedian Kevin Hart.

Which episode focuses on the role of comedy clubs in shaping stand-up comedy?

The episode titled "The Comedy Club" focuses on the role of comedy clubs in shaping stand-up comedy.

In the episode "The Spark of Madness," what comedic genre is explored?

The episode "The Spark of Madness" explores the comedic genre of improvisation and spontaneity.

Who is the comedian interviewed in the episode titled "The Political Comedy"?

The comedian interviewed in the episode "The Political Comedy" is Lewis Black.

In the episode "The Comedy of Real Life," which aspect of comedy is discussed?

The episode "The Comedy of Real Life" discusses the use of real-life experiences in comedy.

Which famous comedian is featured in the episode titled "Dying Is Easy, Comedy Is Hard"?

The episode titled "Dying Is Easy, Comedy Is Hard" features the renowned comedian Chris Rock.

Who directed the episode titled "The Comedy of Real Life"?

The episode "The Comedy of Real Life" was directed by filmmaker John Landis.

In the episode "The Comedy of Real Life," what comedic technique is explored?

The episode "The Comedy of Real Life" explores the comedic technique of observational humor.

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