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Mort Sahl

122quotes

Full Name and Common Aliases


Mort Sahl is best known by his stage name, Mort Sahl. His full birth name was Morton Premnitz Sahl.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on May 11, 1927, in New York City, USA; passed away on November 26, 2021, at the age of 94.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Mort Sahl held American nationality and worked as a comedian, writer, actor, and satirist. His career spanned over six decades, with notable contributions to comedy writing, stand-up performances, and film appearances.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in New York City's Lower East Side, Mort Sahl developed an interest in music at a young age. He began playing the trumpet in his teenage years and later attended New York University, where he studied English literature. However, Sahl's true passion lay in comedy, which led him to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian.

Major Accomplishments


Sahl is often credited with pioneering the style of observational comedy that critiques politics, social issues, and popular culture. His irreverent style influenced many notable comedians, including Lenny Bruce and Bob Newhart. As one of the first comedians to tackle taboo subjects on stage, Sahl faced censorship and protests but continued to push boundaries in his performances.

Notable Works or Actions


One of Mort Sahl's most significant achievements is being a pioneer in comedy writing for film. He wrote the screenplays for _A Cool Sound_ (1957), _The Troublemakers_ (1969), and _What Do You Say to a Naked Man?_ (1970). In addition, Sahl appeared on various television shows, including _The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson_, _Late Night with David Letterman_, and _Saturday Night Live_. His iconic stand-up performances at the hungry i nightclub in San Francisco, where he co-founded the venue, are still celebrated by comedy historians.

Impact and Legacy


Mort Sahl's impact on American comedy is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of comedians who tackled politics and social issues with humor and satire. His irreverent style also influenced writers and performers in other fields, such as acting and music. In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, Sahl was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Mort Sahl's influence on comedy extends beyond his own performances; he inspired many notable comedians, writers, and actors who continue to cite him as an inspiration. His fearless approach to tackling difficult subjects has made him a legendary figure in the world of stand-up comedy. As a result, his quotes and opinions are widely sought after for their insight into politics, social issues, and popular culture.

Quotes by Mort Sahl

There are talented people along the way, although very few come to mind. They're not very daring. Part of the problem is that comedians don't want to overthrow anything. They want to join it.
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There are talented people along the way, although very few come to mind. They're not very daring. Part of the problem is that comedians don't want to overthrow anything. They want to join it.
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I was always biting the hand that fed me. It was compulsive. Kennedy was very good to me, and I attacked him as soon as he was elected. I attacked him before he was elected.
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I was always biting the hand that fed me. It was compulsive. Kennedy was very good to me, and I attacked him as soon as he was elected. I attacked him before he was elected.
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Too much comedy today is vulgar, not clever. I say that as a comedian and as a consumer.
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Too much comedy today is vulgar, not clever. I say that as a comedian and as a consumer.
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There's a great feeling of powerlessness in America. When I express ideas to people, they say, 'That's terrific, but do you think it really counts?'
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There's a great feeling of powerlessness in America. When I express ideas to people, they say, 'That's terrific, but do you think it really counts?'
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I was afraid no one would laugh, and I wanted to pretend I wasn't noticing the audience. I didn't want the audience to get the idea I was telling a joke and waiting for a laugh.
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I was afraid no one would laugh, and I wanted to pretend I wasn't noticing the audience. I didn't want the audience to get the idea I was telling a joke and waiting for a laugh.
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My humor was Victorian - and still is.
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My humor was Victorian - and still is.
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I dare say that if most comedians today, the gifted ones, were to sit down and write, they'd learn more about their craft. But what happens is they get out there before they learn what their viewpoint is, if any.
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I dare say that if most comedians today, the gifted ones, were to sit down and write, they'd learn more about their craft. But what happens is they get out there before they learn what their viewpoint is, if any.
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I was a writer. I couldn't sell anything, and the comedians were among the dumbest people I had ever met. They'd all say to me, 'The average man won't understand it.' You know, they're superior to the average man.
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I was a writer. I couldn't sell anything, and the comedians were among the dumbest people I had ever met. They'd all say to me, 'The average man won't understand it.' You know, they're superior to the average man.
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Too often, these comedy guys now only care about getting on and then getting off and getting rich.
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Too often, these comedy guys now only care about getting on and then getting off and getting rich.
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Comedians have to challenge the power. Comedians should be dangerous and devastating - and funny. That's the hardest part.
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Comedians have to challenge the power. Comedians should be dangerous and devastating - and funny. That's the hardest part.
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