Comics head for reality house

A Big Brother-style TV show for comedians launches on prime-time American TV on Tuesday.

Ten stand-ups will be locked in the Last Comic Standing house, performing, working on their act - and bickering.

Though the names are being kept under wraps until the programme premieres, the line-up is believed to include circuit stalwarts in search of their big break as well as newcomers.

Hundreds of comics turned up to open auditions across the States before being whittled down by an expert panel including Phyllis Diller, Joe Rogan and Colin Quinn.

The contestants will get tips on their performance and writing skills while in the house, as well as the invaluable exposure the eight-part NBC show will give them.

Host Jay Mohr (pictured) told Zap2It.com: "If you ask any American if you could put five people at your dinner table who would they be, I guarantee you one of those five people will be a comic. People find comics interesting.

"We were in the house about five minutes before there was blood on the floor. It wasn't exactly your run-of-the-mill Big Brother fighting over the fooseball table. These are comics, they know how to take their Claws Out and they know how to use them."

The winner will receive a contract with NBC and a special on Comedy Central.

Last Comic Standing: Official home page

Published: 6 Jun 2003