Ep 2. The Life and Death of Sam Kinison
- August 31, 1996
- 43 min
-
(7)
The Life and Death of Sam Kinison is the second episode of the first season of E! True Hollywood Story. This episode delves into the fascinating life of Sam Kinison, a pioneering comedian known for his raunchy humor and unique delivery style. The episode starts by exploring Kinison's childhood, growing up in a conservative evangelical family. Despite his religious upbringing, Kinison was drawn to the world of entertainment from a young age.
As a young man, Kinison pursued a career in stand-up comedy, quickly making a name for himself with his edgy material and explosive stage persona. The episode features interviews with some of Kinison's closest friends and collaborators, who provide insights into his creative process and the impact he had on the comedy world. Through archival footage and personal anecdotes, the episode highlights some of Kinison's most memorable performances, including his legendary appearance on HBO's Rodney Dangerfield's Ninth Annual Young Comedians Special.
The episode also explores some of the darker aspects of Kinison's life, including his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. Although Kinison experienced great success in the 1980s and early 1990s, his addiction eventually caught up with him, leading to a downward spiral that ultimately culminated in his tragic death in 1992. The episode examines the circumstances surrounding Kinison's death, including the details of the car accident that claimed his life.
Despite the sadness of his untimely death, The Life and Death of Sam Kinison reflects on the enduring legacy of this comedy icon. The episode features interviews with contemporary comedians who cite Kinison as a major influence on their own work, highlighting the impact Kinison had on the genre, as well as his place in the pantheon of legendary comedians. With its mix of archival footage, personal stories, and expert analysis, The Life and Death of Sam Kinison is an essential viewing for anyone interested in the life and work of this groundbreaking comedian.
