Norm MacDonald: The Underrated Master of Comedy
Norm MacDonald is a comedian whose work has spanned various aspects of entertainment, from television talk shows to Saturday Night Live (SNL) to his guest appearances on The View. While his career highlights include his memorable performances on SNL’s Weekend Update and his hosting roles for the ESPYs and the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, it is his appearance on Conan O'Brien's show that truly highlights the fearless and innovative nature of his comedy.
My Encounter with Norm MacDonald
As a non-American, the first time I encountered Norm MacDonald was through the television show Cheers, where he played the character 'Norm', a local sports bar owner. However, with my limited knowledge of American comedy, it wasn't until his death that I took the time to research further about his career and style.
The Weeknd Update: An Impression of Norm MacDonald's Comedy
Weekend Update on SNL showcased his unique comedic style, which was often described as off-the-cuff and spontaneous. His approach to comedy was characterized by his lack of preparation, seemingly forgetting lines, and a determined "I don't know what I'm doing here" expression. These traits were admired by many, as they demonstrated his ability to push the boundaries of comedy.
During my recent viewing of his material, I found it mildly entertaining, but it wasn't something that resonated with me as strongly as it did with others. Despite my limited appreciation, it's important to note that Norm MacDonald was a master of his craft. Even when I only found him mildly funny, it is clear he possessed a remarkable talent for improvisation and humor.
The Courageous Stand of Norm MacDonald
One of the most impressive moments from Norm MacDonald's comedic career occurred during his time on Conan O'Brien. Conan's show was running seven minutes short when the producer literally ran out to ask Norm to fill the time. Norm, who had just completed the predetermined segment, had no planned material to offer. Not knowing what else to do, he took a joke he had overheard from backstage—a joke about a moth—and proceeded to go with it purely on the spot. This moment is often referred to as the 'moth joke.'
The 'moth joke' exemplifies the fearless and spontaneous nature of Norm MacDonald’s stand-up. He fearlessly broke the rules of traditional stand-up comedy, pushing the boundaries and delivering a performance that was both brilliant and unexpected. This incident serves as a testament to his innate confidence and his ability to perform under pressure.
A Friend and a Genius
Norm MacDonald was not just a comedian; he was also a jet-propelled athlete in the world of comedy. Unfortunately, his comedic prowess wasn't always appreciated during his lifetime, but it is recognized posthumously. One example of Norm’s loyalty and bravery is his willingness to "take a bullet for his friends." Commercially, he was also a producer and a talent agent, which shows his versatility and comprehensive approach to the entertainment industry.
I highly recommend watching the 'moth joke' on YouTube to witness the brilliance of Norm MacDonald in action. His comedy was a gift to the world, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain.