Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In: A Trailblazer in Television Comedy

Delve into the groundbreaking variety show “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,” which revolutionized television comedy in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Originating as a one-time special, the show quickly gained popularity for its rapid-fire jokes, satirical sketches, and catchphrases that became part of American pop culture. We will explore the show’s origins, its innovative format that broke away from traditional variety shows, and its roster of famous guests, including Richard Nixon, who made a memorable cameo. Key segments like “Sock it to Me,” “The Fickle Finger of Fate,” and “Here Comes the Judge” will be highlighted for their comedic brilliance. Kustanowitz will also examine the show’s influence on later television programs, paving the way for sketch comedies like “Saturday Night Live,” showcasing how “Laugh-In” left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. This lecture is also available virtually. “The speaker was knowledgeable and entertaining”- OLLI Patron