How Doug Kenney and National Lampoon Changed Comedy Forever: A Journey Through American Humor

The Birth of National Lampoon

In the tumultuous 1960s, a group of young iconoclasts emerged from Harvard University with a subversive vision for humor. Led by the brilliant and acerbic Doug Kenney, they launched National Lampoon, a satirical magazine that would become a cultural phenomenon.

Kenney's sharp wit and satirical edge infused the magazine with a unique blend of humor that was both irreverent and insightful. National Lampoon skewered everything from politics to pop culture, earning a loyal following among young people who craved a break from the establishment's grip on comedy.

A Futile and Stupid Gesture: How Doug Kenney and National Lampoon Changed Comedy Forever

by Josh Karp

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5648 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	434 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Lampoon's Breakout Stars

The magazine's success attracted a talented cohort of writers and performers who would go on to become household names in comedy. Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, and Harold Ramis honed their craft in the pages of National Lampoon, developing a comedic style that would revolutionize the big screen.

These young comedians brought a fresh, irreverent energy to the world of comedy. They embraced absurdity, pushed boundaries, and didn't shy away from taboo subjects. Their work challenged the status quo and left an enduring mark on American entertainment.

The Golden Age of Comedy

The 1970s marked a golden age for comedy, and National Lampoon was at the forefront of the movement. The magazine's writers and performers created a string of classic films that redefined the genre, including "Animal House," "Caddyshack," and "Vacation."

These films showcased the Lampoon's signature brand of humor, which combined slapstick with biting social commentary. They lampooned American institutions, poked fun at authority figures, and explored the absurdities of everyday life.

The Influence of Doug Kenney

Doug Kenney's influence on American comedy cannot be overstated. He was the driving force behind National Lampoon and his incisive wit shaped the magazine's unique voice. Kenney's work inspired a generation of comedians and left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.

Kenney's untimely death in 1980 was a profound loss, but his impact continues to be felt today. His contributions to comedy helped break down barriers and pave the way for new generations of comedians to embrace satire and push the boundaries of humor.

The Legacy of National Lampoon

National Lampoon's legacy extends far beyond its initial run. The magazine and its alumni have had a profound impact on American comedy, shaping the way we view satire, parody, and the role of humor in society.

The magazine's influence can be seen in the work of countless comedians and entertainment professionals who have drawn inspiration from its irreverent spirit. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world, proving that true comedy transcends time and generations.

Doug Kenney and National Lampoon revolutionized American comedy in the 1970s and beyond. Their subversive brand of humor challenged the establishment, broke down barriers, and left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.

The magazine and its alumni continue to inspire and entertain audiences, serving as a reminder that true comedy is not only about making people laugh but also about questioning, challenging, and ultimately reflecting the absurdities of our human condition.

A Futile and Stupid Gesture: How Doug Kenney and National Lampoon Changed Comedy Forever

by Josh Karp

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5648 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	434 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE