Comedy records come in many different guises-from standup routines to sketch comedy to political humor and satire. Comedy has always been a part of popular entertainment since Shakespeare's comedic plays. Modern day recorded comedy has its roots in acts honed on the Ed Sullivan Show and on Johnny Carson's stage. Standup continues to flourish in the 21st century with "Saturday Night Live" graduates Chris Rock and Adam Sandler tickling the funny bone and branching out into film. TV sitcoms and talkshows showcasing bigshots like Jerry Seinfeld, Ray Romano, Martin Short, Rosie O'Donnell and others are finding success in the Nielson ratings. Programs like Fox's "Mad TV," Garrison Keillor's "Prairie Home Companion," and HBO's "Dennis Miller Live" help keep the comedic palate in the 21st century quirky and diverse. Representative Artists: Woody Allen, Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, Bill Cosby, Whoopi Goldberg, Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, Gilda Radner, Will Rogers, and Robin Williams.
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