Behind the Bastards: Part One – Frank Fay, The Fascist Who Invented Stand Up Comedy

Podcast Information:

• Title: Behind the Bastards
• Host/Author: Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Part One: Frank Fay, The Fascist Who Invented Stand Up Comedy
• Release Date: August 12, 2025

Introduction

In the premiere episode of "Behind the Bastards," hosts Robert Evans and Andrew T. delve into the life of Frank Fay, a pivotal yet controversial figure in the history of stand-up comedy. The episode explores Fay's groundbreaking contributions to the comedic arts alongside his deeply ingrained bigotry and abusive behavior, painting a complex portrait of a man who was as innovative as he was villainous.

Early Life and Vaudeville Beginnings

Frank Fay, born Francis Anthony Donner (or Donar) on November 17, 1891, in San Francisco, emerged from a family of traveling performers. His mother, Mary, was a stage actress, and his father, William, a poet and versatile entertainer known as Chicago Billy Fay. Growing up in the vaudeville circuit, Frank began performing at a young age, participating in a variety of acts alongside his family.

Robert Evans narrates, “Frank Fay starts performing as a very little kid, maybe four years old” [00:01], highlighting his early immersion in the world of entertainment. Vaudeville, the dominant form of American entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, provided a diverse platform that shaped Fay's multifaceted performance style.

Innovations in Stand-Up Comedy

Frank Fay is credited with pioneering the modern stand-up comedy format. Unlike his contemporaries who relied heavily on props, costumes, and supporting acts, Fay introduced a minimalist approach. He performed solo, dressed in professional attire, and focused on delivering observational humor without the crutches of physical comedy or sidekicks.

At [05:20], Evans states, “He created stand-up comedy as we recognize it today, where a guy walks up wearing normal clothing on stage and just starts telling funny stories." This approach was revolutionary, emphasizing personal narrative and sharp wit over slapstick antics.

Fay's performances became a staple at prestigious venues like The Palace in New York City, where he set records by selling out multiple-week runs and transforming the role of the emcee. According to Evans, “He pioneered the mc and made him important” [54:50], showcasing his ability to engage and manipulate the audience, thus laying the groundwork for future late-night hosts.

Abusive Behavior and Racism

Despite his professional success, Frank Fay's personal conduct was marred by racism, sexism, and abusive behavior. Fay frequently used slurs and openly expressed his bigoted views, particularly targeting Jewish performers. This antagonistic behavior often led to violent confrontations, most notably with Milton Berle.

At [73:16], Evans recounts, “Frank Fay referred to other comedians as 'Jew bastards,' leading to multiple fistfights.” One significant incident involved Fay attacking Berle with a stage brace after verbally abusing him, an act that nearly ended Berle's career and underscored Fay's ruthless nature.

Fay's treatment of his female colleagues was equally abusive. Patsy Kelly, a member of his stock company, described Fay’s harsh treatment, including onstage insults and demanding spontaneous performances without scripts [67:12]. These behaviors highlight the toxic environment Fay cultivated within the entertainment circles he dominated.

Conflict and Rivalries

Fay's abrasive personality fostered numerous conflicts within the comedy community. His rivalry with Milton Berle not only revealed his deep-seated prejudices but also demonstrated his willingness to physically assault peers who crossed him.

At [72:58], Evans explains, “Fay gets into fights all the time with Jewish performers because he calls them slurs.” Another notable altercation involved Fay's attempt to sabotage Bert Lahr's career, reflecting his strategy of undermining colleagues to maintain his own status.

Despite his antagonism, Fay's influence on contemporaries like Bob Hope and Milton Berle was profound. Berle, inspired by Fay’s innovative stand-up style, initially admired him but ultimately retaliated against his malicious behavior [43:16]. This complex dynamic illustrates how Fay's brilliance in comedy coexisted with his morally reprehensible actions.

Legacy and Impact

Frank Fay's legacy is a paradox of groundbreaking contributions to comedy and his destructive personal conduct. He is acknowledged as a foundational figure in stand-up comedy, influencing legends like Bob Hope and Milton Berle. Fay's minimalist approach to comedy and his role as an emcee reshaped the landscape of American entertainment.

However, his racist and abusive behavior complicates his legacy. As Evans concludes, "Fay was both innovative and groundbreaking, and also an abusive dick," [78:08] emphasizing the duality of Fay's impact. This complexity serves as a cautionary tale about separating artistic genius from personal villainy.

Conclusion

Part One of "Behind the Bastards" offers an in-depth look at Frank Fay, a man who fundamentally transformed stand-up comedy while embodying many of the worst traits explored in the podcast series. His story is a testament to the intertwined nature of creativity and morality, leaving listeners with a nuanced understanding of a figure who was both a pioneer and a tormentor in the world of entertainment.

Stay tuned for Part Two, where the hosts will explore Fay's tumultuous relationship with his wife, Barbara Stanwyck, and how their toxic bond influenced Hollywood history.

Notable Quotes:

• Robert Evans at [00:01]: “...the first one to go I'm not doing video today..."
• Robert Evans at [05:20]: “...there is a guy who invented what we recognize as standup comedy... Frank Fay, and we're going to talk about him.”
• Victoria Wilson at [43:16]: “Hope saw Fay one time alone on a darkened stage... one of the funniest acts I ever saw.”
• Robert Evans at [54:50]: “...pioneered the mc and made him important.”

References:

• The Comedians: A History of American Comedy by Cliff Nesterhoff
• Interviews and anecdotes by various comedy historians and contemporaries

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the first part of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners who have not tuned in.