After 16 years, Janeane still needs her prompts

Top American comic Janeane Garofalo has admitted she always takes a notebook on stage because she's afraid of forgetting her material.

Garofalo, known to British fans as the acidic booker Paula in The Larry Sanders Show as well starring roles in movies like The Truth About Cats And Dogs, has been a stand-up for 16 years.

But she still needs her notes as a prompt.

"That notebook on the stool is my safety", the 36-year-old told Canada's Jam! Showbiz web site.

"I feel like I have to have that paper because I'm terrified of blanking.

"On those occasions when they won't let me take paper up, they'll give me a cue card guy. I mean, I'm able to memorise, but I can't remember the order or where within the hour I want to put it."

Published: 9 Jul 2001