When someone tells a joke or attempts humor in a room with a comedian, they often aim to make the comedian laugh rather than entertain others present. This approach doesn't necessarily improve one's comedic skills; instead, it may simply highlight their ability to amuse other comedians. While this might earn them respect within comedy circles, it won’t help them build a broader audience.
The quote emphasizes that true success in comedy lies in connecting with the general public and not just impressing fellow performers. It suggests that trying too hard to be funny for comedians can distract from developing the universal appeal needed to attract a wider fan base. Instead of focusing solely on winning over other comics, aspiring comedians should work on crafting material that resonates with everyone in the audience.
Jermaine Fowler is an American actor and comedian known for his sharp wit and observational humor. He often shares insights about the craft of comedy through social media and interviews, reflecting his deep understanding of what makes humor effective across different audiences.