The History of Comedy — Season 1

The evolution of inappropriate humor throughout history is traced, showcasing the work of groundbreaking comics, including George Carlin, Dick Gregory, and Lenny Bruce, who embraced the risqué side of comedy and risked careers, prison, and even their lives to fight censorship.

Exploring and celebrating the greatest female comedians of all time and how they were able to succeed in every genre where humor is found despite rampant sexism and prejudice.

Examining how comedians find humor in the simple daily experiences we all share to make us laugh.

An exploration of the evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter.

Tracing the origins of topical humor from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.

Exploring the fascinating mind of the comedian and the difficult road that many seem destined to take -- where mental illness and substance abuse are remarkably common.

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

Examining the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.