Jake Johannsen Making an “Overnight Comeback”

I suppose some might take the title of stand-up Jake Johannsen‘s next special a bit literally. But “Overnight Comeback” sort of points out the oddness of a comedian’s life - you may be selling out shows across the country, but if you’re not on TV, you’re perceived to be absent from the culture.

One of the interesting changes about how stand-up specials are produced is that they’re increasingly in the hands of the comedians themselves, rather than a cable network. This naturally brings more control and ownership of the final product (and of course the money on the DVD sales), but makes for unfirm dates of when the general public will see it. There’s a suggestion that “Overnight Comeback” will premiere on either Comedy Central or HBO, but we’ll just have to keep our eyes open for when and where Johannsen will make his debut. Showtime seems like a likely spot too, perhaps even more so than HBO, who I don’t believe has bought many pre-made stand-up specials.

The following promotional but assertively un-viral video was put up by comedian Emery Emery, who will direct the special. (Emery Emery was also the Editor and frequent cameraman for the documentary Aristocrats) Many references to Two Girls and a Cup here, but no video from it, so have no fear of pressing the play button. Well, have some fear… Johannsen does expose about as much as YouTube will allow.

“Overnight Comeback” tapes at Kansas City’s Uptown Theater at 7 PM. Tickets are available at Tickermaster for $25.