How to Become a Comedian Blog Series – Aspiring Comedian’s Checklist

In this article, , we’ll embark on a journey to study the various styles of comedians and discover the magic behind their laughter-inducing abilities.

In my previous article, Aspiring Comedian’s Checklist: Watch Stand Up Shows to Ignite Your Comedy Passion, I pushed you to watch shows so you’ll know the diverse world of stand-up comedy.Comedy is a universal language that has the power to bring joy and laughter to people from all walks of life. Whether it’s a quick one-liner, a hilarious observation, or a captivating story, comedians are masters at capturing the essence of humor and making us laugh till our sides hurt.

These styles can overlap. This is more of an art than a science. Some are a combination of several styles of comedians, which in itself becomes a style.

This article is not about trying to plug everyone into a category, but rather to point out the diverse styles of comedians make us laugh. Also for you to note which styles you like and want to work toward as you become a comedian.

Styles of Comedians – Monologist

One of the most well-known styles of comedians is that of the monologist. Late-night shows thrive on the witty banter and hilarious anecdotes shared by talented monologists. Their ability to engage the audience with their unique perspectives and relatable stories is truly commendable.

Late-night legends like Stephen Colbert and Conan O’Brien have mastered the art of monologues, bringing laughter to millions night after night.

Styles of Comedians – Characters & Ethnic Types

Another fascinating style of comedians is that of character or ethnic comedy. For instance, the infectious insanity of Steve Martin’s character swept through American culture. This jerk thought he was great at everything all the while being inept at most everything he did.

Whoopi Goldberg has become a household name with her fantastic ability to embody different characters and bring them to life on stage. Through her unique storytelling and hilarious impersonations, she has left a lasting impact on the comedy world.

Styles of Comedians – Storytellers

Moving on, we encounter the styles of comedians is the storytellers. Richard Pryor and Jay Larson are prime examples of comedians who captivate audiences with their vivid tales. They take us on a journey through their experiences, effortlessly blending humor with relatable narratives. Their stories create a strong connection with the audience, allowing us to see the world through their humorous lens.

Other storytellers, such as Tom Segura and Jim Gaffigan, have the incredible ability to captivate audiences with their narratives. Through their personal experiences and compelling storytelling, they weave a comedic tapestry that keeps us engaged from start to finish. Their ability to draw us in and take us on a laughter-filled journey is truly magical.

Styles of Comedians – Silent Film Stars

Silent comedians are one of the styles of comedians who use physical comedy to elicit laughter without uttering a single word. Their ability to communicate through gestures and expressions alone proclaims the power of nonverbal humor.

If you haven’t studied the work of Charlie Chaplin, who I consider the funniest man to ever live, or Buster Keaton and Jacque Tate, then you’re missing some of the greatest comedy ever produced. Their comic genius lives on in their movies.

Styles of Comedians – Mimes & Clowns

These physical styles of comedians are some of the most gifted performers that don’t get the credit they deserve. Mime and actor Bill Irwin brings astounding talent to stage and screen. Also Stefan Haves is keeping the spirit of clowning alive with his many stage productions and his work with Cirque du Soleil.

Let’s not forget the great funny man Red Skelton and his many characters on the Red Skelton Show. He brought joy and laughter through exaggerated physicality and slapstick antics. Clowns and mimes have the ability to make us laugh without saying a word which is a testament to their timeless appeal.

Styles of Comedians – Daredevil

This is one of the oddest styles of comedians with the character Super Dave Osborne played by Bob Einstein with his hilarious crashes made us laugh while performing death-defying stunts.

Frank Miles juggled a million and a half volt tasers on the end of sticks while standing in a huge bucket of water pushes the boundaries of physical comedy which resulted in unpredictable hilarity.

Styles of Comedians – Sports

Unique among the styles of comedians is within Sports, like Frank Caliendo take the world of sports and turn it into a comedic playground. Through their hilarious impressions and witty observations, they bring a new dimension of humor to the sports world.

The Harlem Globetrotters are still going strong by entertain millions with their basketball skills and antics enjoyed by folks in the world over.

Styles of Comedians – Literary

Not always thought of  as one of the styles comedians, there the Literary writers, such as Dave Barry, use their comedic writing skills to entertain and enlighten readers. Through their humorous essays and witty commentary on everyday life, they bring laughter to the written word.

As we study the various styles of comedians, it becomes clear that comedy is a diverse and ever-evolving art form. From quick one-liners to thought-provoking social commentary, comedians have the power to make us laugh, think, and question our own perspectives.

Next Up

In my next article, Aspiring Comedian’s Checklist is Read Stand Up Comedy Blogs to Fuel Your Dreams, I’ll suggest you read the blogs that will inform and keep you current on the ever-changing world of stand-up comedy.

Remember, laughter is contagious, pass it on.

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