Ep 11. Fame

Drunk History season 6 episode 11, titled Fame, explores the journeys of individuals who have made a mark in pop culture and history. The show, which combines drunken storytelling with historical reenactments, features stories of icons like Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, as well as lesser-known figures like Fanny Brice and Ruth Etting.

In the first segment, comedian and actor Thomas Middleditch shares the story of Fanny Brice, a vaudeville performer and comedian who became famous in the early 1900s. Brice's unconventional looks and comedic talent propelled her into the spotlight, and Middleditch details Brice's rise to fame, including her turbulent relationship with her husband, Nicky Arnstein. The segment uses historical reenactments to bring Brice's story to life, and Middleditch's drunken humor adds a playful tone to the otherwise serious narrative.

Next, comedian Amanda Seales recounts the story of Ruth Etting, a singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1920s and '30s. Seales details Etting's early life and her rise to success, including her relationships with influential men like the gangster Moe Snyder. Seales also touches on the societal expectations of women in the entertainment industry at the time, and how Etting pushed against convention to make a name for herself. The segment is punctuated with footage of Etting's performances and reenactments that bring her story to life.

The third segment is narrated by comedian and actor Kyle Mooney, who tells the story of Elvis Presley's famous appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Mooney's drunken storytelling adds a humorous element to the segment, which uses reenactments to recreate the excitement and anticipation of Presley's big debut. The segment touches on Presley's early life and his rise to fame in the music industry, as well as the controversy surrounding his suggestive dance moves.

Finally, comedian and actor Nicole Byer shares the story of Aretha Franklin, the beloved singer who became known as the "Queen of Soul." Byer's drunken storytelling adds a lighthearted touch to the segment, which details Franklin's early life and her musical talents. The segment touches on Franklin's tumultuous relationships with men, as well as the racial and societal barriers she had to break down to achieve success in the music industry. The segment is punctuated with footage of Franklin's performances and Byer's comedic interjections.

Overall, Drunk History season 6 episode 11 is a fun and informative look at the lives of iconic figures in pop culture and history. The combination of drunken storytelling and historical reenactments keeps the show light and entertaining, while also providing insight into the struggles and triumphs of those who pushed boundaries and made their mark on the world.