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Series · 2017–2018Ended

The History of Comedy

6.6·2 seasons·14 episodes·45 min avg.·United States of America

Explore what makes us laugh, why, and how that's influenced our social and political landscape throughout history.

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01
F***ing FunnyUp next
Feb 9, 2017·10.0

The evolution of inappropriate humor throughout history is traced, showcasing the work from groundbreaking comedians who risked their careers, prison sentences and even their lives as they fought against censorship.

02
The Funnier Sex
Feb 16, 2017·10.0

A look at the greatest female comedians and how they were able to succeed in every genre where humor is found despite rampant sexism and prejudice.

03
The Comedy of Real Life
Feb 23, 2017

A look at how comedians find humor in the simple, daily experiences most people share.

04
One Nation, Under Comedy
Jul 16, 2017

The evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter are explored.

05
Ripped from the Headlines
Jul 23, 2017

The origins of topical humor are traced, from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.

06
The Spark of Madness
Jul 30, 2017

The mind of the comedian is explored, as well as the difficult road that many seem destined to take where mental illness and substance abuse are remarkably common.

07
On Parody and Satire
Aug 6, 2017

Demonstrating how effective and funny it can be when you look at something serious and just twist it ever so slightly.

08
Politics Aside
Politics Aside
Aug 13, 2017

A look at the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.

Cast

20 credited
Ali Wong
Self
Larry David
Self - Creator, Seinfeld
Rain Pryor
Self
Gilbert Gottfried
Self
David Zucker
Self
Kent Alterman
Self
Rob Reiner
Self
AB
Anne Beatts
Self
Betty White
Self
Todd Boyd
Self

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