Ep 1. Saw You Last Night on The Tonight Show

In season 1 episode 1 of The Comedy Store, titled "Saw You Last Night on The Tonight Show," viewers are taken inside the legendary Los Angeles comedy club that launched the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy. The episode opens with a nostalgic look back at the club's early days and its founder Mitzi Shore, who passed away in 2018.

The scene then shifts to present day as comedians like Chris D'Elia, Whitney Cummings, and Marc Maron talk about the importance of The Comedy Store in their careers and how it continues to be a place where comedians can test their material in front of a live audience. As one comedian notes, "If you can make it at The Comedy Store, you can make it anywhere."

The episode then focuses on up-and-coming comedian Erik Marino, who was recently featured on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Marino talks about his excitement and nerves leading up to his Tonight Show appearance, and how he hopes it will help him get more exposure and gigs.

Back at The Comedy Store, we see Marino perform his stand-up routine in front of a packed house. The audience is receptive, but Marino admits that it's a tough crowd since many of the attendees are other comedians who are there to observe and judge. After his set, Marino talks about the pressure he feels to constantly come up with new material and how tough it is to stand out in a sea of talented comedians.

Throughout the episode, we also see snippets of performances from veteran comedians like David Spade, Bobby Lee, and Jeff Ross, as well as newer talent like Adam Ray and Iliza Shlesinger. These performances give viewers a taste of the diverse range of comedy styles on display at The Comedy Store, from one-liners to political satire to raunchy material.

The episode ends on a bittersweet note as we hear from Mitzi Shore's son, Pauly Shore, about the legacy of The Comedy Store and how it continues to inspire new generations of comedians. While the club has faced its share of challenges over the years, from financial struggles to allegations of abuse, it remains a beloved institution in the comedy world and a crucial stepping stone for anyone looking to make it in the industry.

Overall, "Saw You Last Night on The Tonight Show" is a fitting introduction to The Comedy Store and the vibrant, and often cutthroat, world of stand-up comedy. It's a must-watch for any fan of comedy or anyone interested in the inner workings of the entertainment industry.