HBO Comedy Half-Hour
Comedic stand-up specials aired on HBO
About HBO Comedy Half-Hour
Released: 1994
Platform: Hulu
Rating: TVMA
Run time:
Cast
Dave Chappelle, Jeff Garlin, Warren Hutcherson, Kathleen Madigan, Patton Oswalt
About HBO Comedy Half-Hour
The HBO Comedy Half-Hour was a series of stand-up comedy specials that showcased the hottest talents of the 1990s. Each episode, lasting for half an hour, featured a single comedian performing their routine. Being classified as TVMA, it offered mature audience an opportunity to enjoy a series of unique, creative, and hilarious stand-up acts.
Making / Production
The HBO Comedy Half-Hour was produced by premium cable network HBO. The series, initiated in 1994, was a bold initiative that allowed HBO to endorse upcoming talent, while providing big comedy names a platform to sustain their brand. The skits ranged from sophisticated wordplay to pungent political commentary, thereby reflecting the diverse scope of contemporary comedy.
Actors
- Janeane Garofalo: Played herself. Her performance was characterized by her sharp wit and insightful commentary, making her one of the standout performers of the series.
- David Cross: Known for his tongue-in-cheek humor, Cross's performance highlighted his unique style of humor.
- Bobcat Goldthwait: Goldthwait, known for his signature high-pitched voice, offered an hour filled with hilarious anecdotes and personal stories.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- This show served as the launching pad for many performers who later became mainstays on HBO's various comedy shows.
- Despite the title, the series wasn't limited to just comedy. Some episodes included musical performances and sketches.
Quotes
- "The great thing about stand-up is that it either works or it doesn't. And you know right away whether it's working or not." - David Cross.
- "I'd rather be a failure at something I love than a success at something I hate." - Bobcat Goldthwait.
Music, Soundtrack
- The show's opening and closing credits featured bouncy, upbeat theme music that perfectly set the tone for the half-hour of comedy that would follow.
- Each episode presented diverse musical numbers, often performed by the comedians themselves, adding an extra layer to the comedic performances.
About HBO Comedy Half-Hour
HBO Comedy Half-Hour is a television show featuring stand-up comedians performing half-hour sets on HBO.