Late-night host Jay Leno has revealed that he's removed politics from his stand-up comedy routine, citing a significant increase in ticket sales as a result. The veteran comedian made this decision after noting that it was increasingly challenging to navigate the current polarized climate and that a third of his audience wouldn't agree with his views.
Leno stated that he can still play political jokes on his TV show, but when touring to areas like red states, he has to tone down his material. He believes that comics can find ways to make politics work in their shows, but it's not necessary to lecture or preach to their audiences.
Instead, Leno wants people to come to a comedy show to "get away from the things" and enjoy some laughter. He thinks that politics can be used in humor, but it's essential to avoid being too biased or one-sided. By removing politics from his stand-up routine, Leno aims to create a more inclusive atmosphere for his audience.
In an interview last July, Leno made similar points about people not wanting to attend comedy shows for political lectures. He recalled receiving hate letters with messages like "Dear Mr. Leno, you and your Republican friends" or "Well, Mr. Leno, I hope you and your Democratic buddies are happy – over the same joke." These experiences led him to realize that his audience values humor and entertainment above politics.
Leno expressed optimism about the future of comedy, saying that people still want to laugh and have a good time. He believes that by focusing on universal themes and avoiding politics, comedians can continue to thrive in an increasingly polarized world.
Leno stated that he can still play political jokes on his TV show, but when touring to areas like red states, he has to tone down his material. He believes that comics can find ways to make politics work in their shows, but it's not necessary to lecture or preach to their audiences.
Instead, Leno wants people to come to a comedy show to "get away from the things" and enjoy some laughter. He thinks that politics can be used in humor, but it's essential to avoid being too biased or one-sided. By removing politics from his stand-up routine, Leno aims to create a more inclusive atmosphere for his audience.
In an interview last July, Leno made similar points about people not wanting to attend comedy shows for political lectures. He recalled receiving hate letters with messages like "Dear Mr. Leno, you and your Republican friends" or "Well, Mr. Leno, I hope you and your Democratic buddies are happy – over the same joke." These experiences led him to realize that his audience values humor and entertainment above politics.
Leno expressed optimism about the future of comedy, saying that people still want to laugh and have a good time. He believes that by focusing on universal themes and avoiding politics, comedians can continue to thrive in an increasingly polarized world.