What Makes a Strong TV Standup Set?
Hey there, comedy lovers! It’s ANT, your snarky yet lovable guide to all things funny. Today, we’re diving into a topic near and dear to my heart: crafting a killer standup set for television. Whether you’re stepping into the spotlight for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your skills, these tips will help you deliver a set that leaves the audience laughing and the producers calling you back.
1. Start Strong
TV audiences are a lot like cats with laser pointers—easily distracted. You’ve got about 10 seconds to grab their attention and convince them not to switch to a TikTok compilation. Hit the stage with a joke that’s punchy, relatable, and immediately gets the room on your side. Remember, your opener sets the tone for everything that follows. If it’s not landing, neither is the rest of your set.
2. Keep It Tight
On TV, time is your biggest frenemy. You might have five minutes, but in comedy time, that’s barely enough to order a coffee with oat milk. Every second counts, so trim the fat. Ditch the long setups, and focus on the punches. If you can say it in fewer words, do it. Brevity is not just the soul of wit—it’s the king of comedy.
3. Know Your Audience
Performing on TV is different from a late-night club in Toledo. Your jokes need to resonate with a broader audience. Grandma in Des Moines is watching. So is the 20-something in Brooklyn. Make sure your material has universal appeal, but don’t be afraid to let your unique perspective shine through. That’s what makes you memorable.
4. Bring the Energy
TV flattens everything—your jokes, your expressions, your personality. So, bring it. Your energy should pop off the screen like a Taylor Swift breakup anthem. Smile, move, and make sure your delivery is crisp and dynamic. If you’re excited to be there, the audience will be excited to watch.
5. Be Clean (or TV-Clean)
We all love a little spice in our comedy, but TV isn’t always the place for it. Unless you’re on HBO or a Netflix special, keep it clean. And even then, “tasteful” is your friend. Clever, innuendo-filled humor can work wonders without pushing the boundaries of good taste—or the FCC’s patience.
6. End With a Bang
Your closer is like the cherry on top of a sundae. It’s what people will remember when the credits roll. End your set with your strongest, most memorable bit. Leave them laughing, and they’ll be talking about you long after you’ve left the stage.
7. Practice, Practice, Practice
You’ve heard it before, and I’ll say it again: preparation is key. Run your set so many times that you could do it in your sleep—but still deliver it like you just thought of it on the spot. Rehearse in front of friends, record yourself, and tweak until every joke hits like a Mack truck full of giggles.
8. Be Yourself
This might sound cliché, but authenticity is everything. The audience wants to connect with you, not some caricature you think they’ll like. Be real, be honest, and be the hilarious human you are. Your unique voice is your superpower—don’t be afraid to use it.
Final Thoughts
A strong TV standup set isn’t just about making people laugh. It’s about showcasing who you are, what you bring to the table, and why the audience should want more of you. So, get out there, polish those jokes, and light up the screen like the comedy star you are.
And remember, if all else fails, just throw in a joke about your mother. Works every time. 😉
