John Mulaney

My fascination with public speaking and my appreciation for comedic timing makes standup a natural interest for me. Jerry Seinfeld and Rodney Dangerfield are some of the pioneers in this debilitating profession, and I can genuinely respect the confidence and fortitude to walk on stage and be 'funny'. John Mulaney was the head writer for the iconic television program Saturday Night Live, where you were forced to create a 3 minute sketch that would captivate the country. Legends have attempted to make the magic that characterizes 30 Rockefeller Center every week, but few can maintain hilarity. For 4 years Mulaney wrote countless bits making Bill Hader's 'Stephon' an absolute classic. Like many who make the show, drugs and alcohol show a deeper look into the industry. Most remember Farley and Belushi, but even they could not overcome the shadows that come with the spotlight.

John Mulaney graced the White River Amphitheatre on August 13th a changed man, despite his frequently referenced boyish features. He donned a classic suit and tie, establishing his traditional presence, but I could tell something was different. Like many who grabbed the mic, he had the swagger, but he looked pale, sweaty, and even his hair could not stay, but he had the eyes of the sold out crowd. He started with some openers about the Washington State trees and its political allegiances, but he then singled out some of the kids in the audience, almost apologizing for what was going to come next.

John did an hour long set specifically on his battle with drug addiction. He talked about his highs and lows, his dealers, and most of all, his intervention. His popularity in the comedic community was widespread and embraced, but those close to him recognized his problem. He started rehab grudgingly like most addicts, but now seems to be in a better place. However, as his fans bellyached in laughter, I sat silent in my seat... frankly... because it was sad.

I had seen John Mulaney on his multiple Netflix shows as well as his SNL hosting episodes, but this was a different person. His authentic humor was as evident as ever, but he was clearly removed from the persona that made him a star. Reflecting on his performance, I struggled to find a word for what I just saw, and one word came to mind... HERO.

Unlike his predecessors, he had a foundation of support that legitimately wanted the best for him, and drugs were not the answer. He had come to the realization that his lifestyle was not sustainable, and the demise of those before were a blueprint for his future. He now has a wife and a kid, and seems to be on a better path, but he was lucky. He recognized his problem, and fixed it, and is now a success story for his fans and admirers. He will forever be an emblem of accomplishment but his road is not over, and we all know the dangers of relapse. Fortunately, John is in a better place, and it was clear that he understands that there is more to being 'funny'.