In an exclusive gathering that promises to tickle your funny bone while tugging at your heartstrings, The Hollywood Reporter’s Stand-Up Comedy Roundtable brought together some of the most renowned comedians for an unfiltered and engrossing discussion. Jamie Foxx, Chelsea Handler, Seth Meyers, Hasan Minhaj, Sarah Silverman, and Roy Wood Jr. candidly opened up about their experiences in the comedy world, offering a mixture of uproarious laughter and poignant moments.
Diving Into the Dark Comedy Abyss
The roundtable kicked off with the comedians sharing stories of their biggest bombs on stage, digging deep into their darkest moments to find humor. Hasan Minhaj in particular, shared the aching experience of losing his dream job, pulling back the curtain on the world of comedy politics. Roy Wood Jr. described the collective bewilderment at The Daily Show when Minhaj’s host offer was withdrawn, shining a spotlight on the uncertainties comedians face.
Jamie Foxx’s Near-Death Experience
Jamie Foxx brought the session to the edge with an emotional recount of his close call with death. His description of conspiracy theories about cloning, believed while bedridden in the hospital, swings between the surreal and the comic. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Foxx’s genuine outburst about his supposed white clone had the audience in stitches, and even the psychiatrist suggesting a dosage adjustment couldn’t dampen the mood.
Connections in Comedy
Comedic storytelling took center stage as Sarah Silverman shared how she balances the comedic and tragic tones following the death of her parents. Meanwhile, Chelsea Handler delved into the unique challenges of comedy in the political upheaval of the Trump era, and Seth Meyers discussed the tricky terrain of managing audience expectations with regard to political comedy.
Touching on Regrettable Moments
In a heartfelt moment, Wood used the roundtable as an opportunity for an overdue apology to Handler for his dismissive attitude towards celebrity news as comedic material. While Handler herself seemed to lack a memory of the incident, the apology underscores the growth and learning that comedians often encounter throughout their careers.
Where to Watch
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this remarkable conversation. Catch full episodes of the THR Emmy Roundtables airing on IFC Fridays at 9 p.m. PT/12 a.m. ET or stream them on AMC+. For those seeking more, these roundtables will also be available in print and online for the next five weeks, with complete videos accessible on THR.com and YouTube every Sunday through June 22.
Engage with the stories, the laughter, and the revelations from these comedy legends as they redefine what it means to bring laughter to the world.
