The History of Standup

Season 1 Trailer

Join comedian Wayne Federman and Andrew Steven for The History of Standup, a look back at some of comedy’s most interesting moments. Full episodes start September 18th. Brought to you by The Podglomerate. Follow us on Twitter at @histofstandup, @federman, and @andrewsteven. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 01: In One, Television, and the Birth of Standup

Television and standup have been intertwined since their conception. Which is why, when two historic television programs debuted just days apart in 1948, NBC’s Texaco Star Theater and The Ed Sullivan Show, the standup world was forever changed. This is episode 1 of a 6-part series featuring interviews with comedy icons including Judd Apatow and historian Kliph Nesteroff. The History of Standup is produced by The Podglomerate. 

Ep. 02: Records and Clubs

The comedy albums of the 1960’s ushered in a new era of standup, eventually leading to the the worlds first comedy clubs opening their doors, helping drive the standup comedy boom of the ’80s. This is episode 2 of a 6-part series, featuring a look into Judd Apatow’s childhood record collection, plus we speak with Zoe Friedman, daughter of the founder and original proprietor of The Improv Comedy Club, Budd Friedman. The History of Standup is produced by The Podglomerate.

Ep. 03: Carson, SNL, and HBO

In the 1970s a successful appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” was the goal of every young standup, as was epitomized one night in 1973 with Freddie Prinze. Then Saturday Night Live and HBO changed the playing field. This is episode 3 of a 6-part series, and features clips with Freddie Prinze, Jimmie Walker, George Carlin, Steve Martin, and Richard Pryor, among others. The History of Standup is produced by The Podglomerate.

Ep. 04: The 1980’s Comedy Boom

A fast and unexpected proliferation of comedy clubs cover the country. Long Island natives Eddie Murphy and Jerry Seinfeld ascend to legendary status as a growing glut of standup TV programs crowd the airwaves. This is episode 4 of a 6-part series featuring interviews with comedians Margaret Cho, Tig Notaro, and Ritch Shydner. The History of Standup is produced by The Podglomerate.