"From Beautiful Downtown Burbank": A Critical History of Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In, 1968-1973

by Hal Erickson

Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In was one of the most unusual programs on television, defying definition as simply comedy, variety, or burlesque. The show had audiences laughing for six seasons and continues to make appearances in revivals, reunions, and salutes. This critical history of Laugh-In includes background details on the creation and creators, as well as information on lookalike shows. An appendix contains a complete program history with principal production credits and episode guides.

Genres: Tv

341 pages, Paperback

First published March 10, 2000

Reviews

[David Sheward · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Decades network has been rerunning Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In including the sixth season which has been left out of previous syndication packages. I remember watching the show when it was first on. Producer George Schlatter appeared on the David Frost Show and said they did 250 jokes a show. Of course I counted all the wisecracks the next time it aired. This book is a lot of fun, details how the show came together, its impact on TV and entertainment in general, as well as the aborted revival in 1977 and cast reunions. Reads very fast. Lily Tomlin really saved the show when it was beginning to lag in the third season.

[Tim Oldakowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an ardent fan of the series Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In since the mid 80’s this is incredible! Though the book is 25 years old, I don’t think there’s a more comprehensive record or history of the series. I loved this so much I found the author on Facebook and messaged him expressing my gratitude for the book. If you are a fan of the show- it’s a must devour!