Conan O’Brien gets serious about silliness

About the Episode

On July 16, 2008, Conan O’Brien spoke about his style of late night and his reason for doing comedy. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

Aired: 05/15/24 | Expires: | Runtime: 15m 32s

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Thomas Wiggins: Composing the Future

The story of a composer and pianist known as one of the greatest musicians of the 19th century.

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Renegades

Explore the lives of diverse, lesser-known historical figures with disabilities.
American Masters Shorts: Season 1

Explore new documentary shorts about artists who defy the odds to create remarkable work.

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How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics

Phyllis Diller reflects on how her comedy was a response to years of “take my wife” jokes.

11:35
Paul Mooney on his career and relationship with Richard Pryor

Paul Mooney reflects on the mechanics of stand-up and his role as Richard Pryor's best friend.

10:39
How Lily Tomlin found liberation in exploring her Laugh-In characters

Lily Tomlin speaks about her time on Laugh-In and how she developed her characters.

12:35
Jeff Foxworthy on how every American might be a "redneck"

Jeff Foxworthy discusses regionalism in comedy and why "redneck" is a state of mind.

15:41
Joan Rivers finds humor in being yourself

Joan Rivers speaks about her experience as a female comic in the early 60s.

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Love, Jamie

Jamie Diaz is a trans woman and artist who has spent nearly 30 years in a men's prison in Texas.

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Love, Jamie

Jamie Diaz is a trans woman and artist who has spent nearly 30 years in a men's prison in Texas.

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What matters to you.