You can't study comedy; it's within you. It's a personality. My humor is an attitude.
Don RicklesRead
The young comedians always ask me, 'What's the secret for staying around?' I tell them, 'There is no secret - just stay around. Longevity is the most important thing.'
Interpretation
The key to success is simply to continue being present and active in your field.
In this quote, Don Rickles emphasizes that there is no magical formula for achieving longevity in one's career, especially in comedy. Instead, he points out that the most crucial factor is to remain consistent and persistent, suggesting that mere presence and the willingness to continue performing are what ultimately lead to lasting success.
In practice
In a graduation speech to encourage students to stay dedicated to their paths.
You can't study comedy; it's within you. It's a personality. My humor is an attitude.
When I was a younger guy doing comedy, it was a big struggle. Promoters canceled me out of clubs left and right when I called somebody a dummy or a yo-yo. Then they realized I was different.
I think if I took therapy, the doctor would quit. He'd just pick up the couch and walk out of the room.
There were very few women comics when I started out doing stand-up. But I always saw that as a great advantage.
You have to able to make fun of yourself. Don't take things too seriously and when people make fun of you, laugh at it.
Jesus! Did I SAY that? Or just think it? Was I talking? Did they hear me? I glanced over at my attorney, but he seemed oblivious.
If you have enough book space, I don't want to talk to you.
In 27 years doing this, I've seen a handful of truly great, masterful standup sets. One was Tig Notaro last night at Largo.
A sense of humor is good for you. Have you ever heard of a laughing hyena with heart burn?
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