Includes a conversation with executive producers Todd Milliner and Mark Herzog

From CNN, whose riveting original series include Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, The Eighties and This Is Life with Lisa Ling, comes a new series, The History of Comedy. We will present the premiere episode of the eight-part documentary series that explores what makes people laugh and how comedy has affected the social and political landscape throughout history. The series features interviews with comedy stars Carol Burnett, Betty White, Larry David, Sarah Silverman, Judd Apatow, Jimmy Kimmel, Margaret Cho, Norman Lear, W. Kamau Bell and more. The History of Comedy is executive produced by Todd Milliner and Sean Hayes, who’s best known for his unforgettable role of “Jack” in the hit sitcom Will & Grace. Their company Hazy Mills has produced several television projects including TV Land’s Hot in Cleveland and NBC’s Grimm.  Mark Herzog and Christopher G. Cowen (Herzog & Company) also serve as executive producers. Herzog, in partnership with Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman, brought the popular decade series The Sixties, The Seventies and The Eighties to CNN, and is currently working on The Nineties. Milliner and Herzog will take part in a conversation following the episode screening.

Episode 1: “F***ING FUNNY”

Comedy has often pushed the boundaries of what society sees as acceptable in terms of taboo language and subject matter. “F***ING FUNNY” tracks the evolution of risqué humor throughout history, showcasing the work from groundbreaking comedians who risked their careers, prison and even their lives as they fought against censorship. From Lenny Bruce battling for his right to free speech, to George Carlin’s famous “7 Words,” to the most innovative and successful comedians working today, the episode explores why these artists have always been drawn to what is deemed off limits.

2017, 43 min, color | Executive produced by Sean Hayes and Todd Milliner, Mark Herzog and Christopher G. Cowen

Ticketing Information

UPDATE (1/25/17): This screening is now open to the general public.

Film Independent and LACMA Film Club members can reserve tickets starting at 12 pm on Thursday, January 19. | Free; limit two tickets per membership. | Proof of member status is required to reserve tickets during advance reservation period.

LACMA member and general admission tickets can be reserved starting at 12 pm on Thursday, January 26. | Free; limit two tickets.

PLEASE NOTE: Pre-reserved tickets for this event can be picked up at LACMA’s Ticket Office, located in the Hammer Building, on the day of the event—as early as 11 am. Tickets are for general, unreserved Bing Theater seating. Ticketed guests must be in their Bing Theater seat 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Reservations do not guarantee entry, even with a ticket in hand. Entry is first come, first served, so please arrive early. Program and guest participation subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. Tickets are nontransferable and can only be picked up by the individual who purchased or reserved them.