Ep 4. George Carlin

Inside the Actors Studio season 11 episode 4 features the legendary comedian, George Carlin. In this episode, host James Lipton interviews Carlin about his life and career, focusing on his transformation from a traditional stand-up comic to a satirist and social commentator.

Carlin discusses his early years in show business, including his time as a straight-laced vaudeville performer and his later work as a member of the comedy duo Burns and Carlin. He also discusses his early struggles with drugs and alcohol, and how he eventually overcame those issues to become one of the most influential comedians of all time.

Throughout the interview, Carlin shares his thoughts on a wide variety of topics, including politics, religion, and social issues. He talks about the evolution of his comedy style, the creative process behind his material, and the challenges he faced in balancing his desire to speak truth to power with the need to make people laugh.

Carlin also discusses some of his most famous routines, including "The Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television" and "Religion is Bullshit." He explains how he developed those routines, why he felt they were important to perform, and how they helped to define his career.

Throughout the interview, Lipton and Carlin share laughs and anecdotes, making for a lively and engaging conversation. They also touch on some of the more serious aspects of Carlin's life and career, including his struggles with censorship and his ongoing battle with heart disease.

Overall, this episode of Inside the Actors Studio offers a fascinating look at the life and career of one of the greatest comedians of all time. Carlin's insights and perspectives are insightful and thought-provoking, making this a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of comedy and the power of satire.