

Daily Comedy News with Johnny Mac - a daily briefing on comedians, and the comedy industry
Daily Comedy News with Johnny Mac
Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast.Daily Comedy News is a short, fast daily briefing covering the business, culture, and chaos of stand-up comedy and the comedy industry.Hosted by Johnny Mac, the show delivers daily updates on comedians, late-night television, comedy specials, streaming platforms, and the stories shaping the world of comedy. Episodes cover working comics, touring news, cancellations, controversies, and the shifting comedy landscape — all in a tight, no-filler format.If you want to know what comedians are talking about, what’s happening behind the scenes in comedy, and how stand-up and late night are evolving day by day, this is your daily stop for comedy news. New episodes every day.Episodes include commentary and parody.Facebook Group: Daily Comedy News Podcast GroupReddit: r/dailycomedynewsInstagram: @dailycomedynewsYouTube: Subscribe on YouTubeWeb: www.dailycomedynews.comGet the Ad-Free ExperienceSubscribe on your favorite podcast app through Caloroga Shark Media. Apple users—just tap the "Uninterruped Listening" banner in your app.Buy Me A Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsJoin the $2 Club or toss something in the tip jar!Value for Value & Podcasting 2.0 supporterContact UsEmail: john [at] thesharkdeck [dot] comTwitter/X: @dcnpod (because the handle we wanted was taken by someone who tweeted once)Daily Comedy News is a production of Caloroga Shark Media—the leaders in short-form daily podcasts .Portions of this podcast were created with the assistance of AI. You think we hired a band to sing the Gossip Corner song?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 29, 2025 • 9min
They're all mad at Shane Gillis for silly reasons
In this episode, John discusses the so-called 'controversial' nature of comedian Shane Gillis, focusing on his past SNL performance and recent podcast appearance. Chenny also shares reviews of comedy specials by Mike Birbiglia and Gerard Carmichael, highlighting their storytelling strengths. Jim Gaffigan's 50-pound weight loss journey and use of appetite-suppressing medication is covered, along with Russell Peters' stance on potential deportation, David Cross' new bobblehead release, and River Butcher's insights into Midwestern comedy. Additionally, the episode addresses Gen Z comedian Will Gibb's recent controversy over wearing headphones at a restaurant.00:00 Introduction and Comedy Snobbery00:44 Shane Gillis Controversy03:21 Jim Gaffigan's Weight Loss Journey04:13 Russell Peters on Deportation04:41 David Cross's New Bobblehead05:09 Mike Birbiglia's Comedy Beginnings05:38 Roy Wood Jr. on Political Comedy06:11 Kenan Thompson Teases SNL Changes06:56 River Butcher on Midwest Comedy07:35 Gen Z Comedian's Restaurant Controversy08:56 Conclusion and Call to ActionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 28, 2025 • 14min
Mulaney's Sobriety, Birbiglia's New Special, Schumer's Real Estate, and More!
Johnny Mac recaps the latest in comedy news. Topics include John Mulaney discussing his sobriety journey on Ted Danson's podcast, Mike Birbiglia's reflections on family and writing, Ronnie Chieng's journey to American citizenship, Jo Koy and Ram Yousef's commencement speeches, and Amy Schumer's real estate ventures. The episode also highlights new comedy shows announced by the BBC, a recap of a comedian roundtable by Hollywood Reporter, and a unique story involving a comedian's personalized license plate auction. 00:06 John Mulaney's Sobriety Journey01:39 Mike Birbiglia's New Show and Personal Insights02:16 Ronny Chieng's American Citizenship Journey03:49 Jo Koy's Commencement Speech04:31 Ramy Youssef's Commencement Speech05:17 Seth Meyers' Bombing Story05:43 Stephen Colbert's DC Comics Cover07:22 Amy Schumer's Real Estate Ventures08:23 BBC's New Comedy ShowsGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 27, 2025 • 8min
Conan O'Brien's Career Reflections
Conan O'Brien discussed his career ups and downs on the Messy podcast with Christina Applegate and Jamie Lynn Sigler. The conversation spans his journey through television and the unexpected support he found online. The episode also explores John Mullaney's interview with GQ Magazine about his Rolex collection and Dmitri Martin's blend of visual art with comedy. Additionally, Taylor Tomlinson announces her upcoming Netflix special, Howie Mandel shares his perpetual connection to standup, and Martin Short humorously reflects on his Emmy nomination against Steve Martin. The show concludes with a reminder of the benefits of subscribing to the ad-free version of the program.00:00 Conan O'Brien Reflects on Career Ups and Downs00:58 John Mulaney's Watch Collection and Personal Stories02:47 Dmitri Martin's Artistic Journey and Personal Reflections04:14 Taylor Tomlinson's Upcoming Netflix Special04:53 Howie Mandel on His Standup Comedy Roots05:32 Martin Short on Competing with Steve Martin and Career Anecdotes06:36 Closing Remarks and Subscription InformationGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 26, 2025 • 10min
Mike Birbiglia's New Netflix Special & Conan O'Brien's Legacy
Johnny Mac covers the latest in comedy news, discussing Mike Birbiglia's new Netflix special 'The Good Life,' which delves into personal themes including parenting and his father's stroke. Conan O'Brien reflects on his Tonight Show departure and his career, while Ryan Reynolds' appearance on Conan's podcast reignites Jay Leno conspiracy theories. Jay Leno advises comedians to expand beyond local acts, and Howie Mandel talks about how 'Deal or No Deal' impacted game shows for comedians. Additionally, Hasan Minhaj praises Russell Peters' influence, and Matteo Lane shares amusing anecdotes from his special. Other segments include Al Scorch's public toilet reviews and Sebastian Fowler's cross-country BMX journey.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episode Recap00:11 Mike Birbiglia's New Netflix Special01:32 Conan O'Brien's Career Reflections02:54 Ryan Reynolds and Jay Leno Conspiracy Theories03:48 Jay Leno's Advice to Comedians04:26 Howie Mandel on 'Deal or No Deal'05:12 Asian American Comedians and Their Influences05:55 Matteo Lane's Comedy Journey07:41 Al Scorch's Public Toilet Reviews08:19 Sebastian Fowler's BMX AdventureGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 25, 2025 • 16min
The Mount Rushmore of Late Night Comedy
Johnny Mac delves into the history and key figures of late-night television. He discusses the important contributions of hosts like Steve Allen, Jack Paar, Johnny Carson, David Letterman, Jay Leno, and Conan O'Brien. By comparing them to the symbolic representation of actual presidents on Mount Rushmore, John evaluates their legacies and longevity. Ultimately, he establishes his 'Mount Rushmore' of late night, 00:00 Introduction to the Mount Rushmore of Late Night00:26 The History of Late Night TV01:54 Mount Rushmore of Late Night: The Real Presidents02:31 Legacy and Longevity in Late Night04:49 Case Studies: Steve Allen and Jack Parr07:30 Case Studies: Johnny Carson and Tom Snyder08:12 Case Studies: David Letterman and Jay Leno10:15 Case Studies: Jon Stewart and Arsenio Hall12:20 Case Studies: Conan O'Brien13:50 Final Picks for the Mount Rushmore of Late NightGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 24, 2025 • 15min
New specials this weekend from Jerrod Carmichael and Mike Birbiglia
Johnny Mac highlights two major comedy specials for the holiday weekend: Jerrod Carmichael's 'Don't Be Gay' on HBO Max and Mike Lia's Netflix special. Mack discusses Carmichael's lack of PR push and details from his special focused on personal and social issues. Further topics include Steph Tolev and Fakokovva’s upcoming specials, Apple TV's new Peanuts musical, the Scrubs reboot with Zach Braff, Pete Davidson’s return to stand-up, and Bowen Yang’s emotional moments on SNL. Additionally, there’s a fun segment on John Oliver’s playful challenge to minor league baseball teams. 00:27 Mike Birbigia's Comedy Insights01:09 Jerrod Carmichael's New Special02:43 Upcoming Comedy Specials03:23 Peanuts Musical and Scrubs Reboot04:53 Pete Davidson's Standup Return05:16 Bowen Yang's SNL Future06:05 John Oliver and Minor League BaseballGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 23, 2025 • 13min
Knicks vs. Comedy, Shaq's Roast Plans, and Conan in Toy Story 5
From the NBA playoffs, a humorous piece by Celtics fan Josh Gondleman. Shaquille O'Neal hints at hosting a roast with a diverse comedian lineup. Conan O'Brien joins Toy Story 5 as a new character, SmartyAnts, with the movie's release set for June 19, 2026. Ricky Gervais and Mike Schur are set to receive stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The episode also reviews Sarah Silverman's new comedy special, ranks the best stand-up specials of 2025 so far, and quotesinterviews with comedians like W. Kamau Bell and Jon Lovitz. Plus, highlights of the Vail Comedy Festival and the release of Shanna Christmas's comedy album 'Highly Intelligent.'00:00 Knicks Town02:48 Shaquille O'Neal's Roast Plans03:48 Conan O'Brien Joins Toy Story 504:27 Ricky Gervais and Mike Schur Honored on Hollywood Walk of Fame06:57 Sarah Silverman's New Special Review07:41 Comedy Specials and Stand-Up Recommendations08:36 W. Kamau Bell's Stand-Up and John Lovett's Comedy Style10:57 Vail Comedy Festival and Shanna Christmas's New Album11:55 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 22, 2025 • 11min
Tim Dillon rejects CNN's premise PLUS one fan's unrealistic expectations for Theo Von
Mike Birbiglia’s 'The Good Life' is out Monday. The episode also discusses a CNN appearance by Tim Dillon, his critique of traditional media, and observations on the 'Dude Bro Podcast' culture. Additionally, there's a review of Theo Von's recent Miami show. Promotion for a premium subscription and Sunday's 'Mount Rushmore of Late Night' segment concludes the episode.00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Episodes00:24 Mike Birbiglia's New Netflix Special02:05 Earthquake's Second Netflix Special02:40 Tim Dillon CNN Appearance04:56 Theo Von's Miami Show Review09:23 Sydney Comedy Festival Awards09:58 Conclusion and Subscription InformationGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 21, 2025 • 13min
Is John Mulaney copying Chris Gethard?
Topics include Ryan Reynolds' appearance on Conan O'Brien, Sarah Silverman's reflections on October 7th, critical reviews of John Mulaney's Netflix talk show, and accusations that Mulaney's show mimics Chris Gethard's. Mateo Lane's Hulu special is mentioned, alongside Theo Von's recent posts about hanging out with Ivanka and Jared Kushner. The podcast also covers Kevin Hart's new film casting in New Jersey, Bill Maher shutting down his podcast company, and celebrity opinions on Dave Chappelle and Donald Trump hosting SNL. The episode concludes with mentions of a successful fundraising event for cancer research hosted by prominent comedians.00:00 Introduction and Ryan Reynolds on Conan00:42 Sarah Silverman's Stand-Up Struggles01:07 John Mulaney's Netflix Talk Show Critique03:43 Mateo Lane's Comedy Journey05:12 Theo Von's Celebrity Encounter05:46 Kevin Hart's New Film Casting Call07:15 Bill Maher Shuts Down Podcast Company08:12 Nora Dunn on Controversial SNL Hosts10:48 Comedy Versus Cancer Benefit Event11:52 Conclusion and Ways to Support the ShowGet the show without ads. Five bucks. For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John’s free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.

May 20, 2025 • 5min
Remembering George Wendt: Cheers Beloved Norm Peterson
George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on NBC’s 'Cheers.' has passed away at age 76, leaving behind a legacy admired by many. The episode highlights his career, including his six consecutive Emmy nominations, his work with Second City, and memorable moments from 'Cheers' and its spinoffs. Johnny Mac also shares personal anecdotes from Wendt’s life, including his family connections and a fun anecdote about Bono.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.


