Podcast Summary: Digital Social Hour - "Carrot Top: From Props to Punchlines in 30 Years | Carrot Top DSH #792"

Introduction

In episode #792 of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly sits down with the iconic comedian Carrot Top, marking an engaging discussion that spans three decades of Carrot Top's illustrious career. Released on October 8, 2024, the episode delves deep into Carrot Top's journey, his unique comedic style, challenges faced in the entertainment industry, and his insights on the evolving landscape of comedy.

Career Longevity and Success in Las Vegas

Carrot Top, recognized as the longest-running comedian in Las Vegas history, shares the secrets behind his sustained success. With a career spanning nearly 30 years, he has performed at renowned venues like Deluxe and MGM, totaling almost 31 years of continuous performances.

Carrot Top [00:33]: "Well, if you add up all of them, I think 30 years. Yeah, 30 years. Eight. 19 at Deluxe or. And 10 at MGM. And it's almost 31 of bellies."

Sean expresses admiration for Carrot Top's longevity, noting that many comedians struggle to maintain their presence beyond a decade.

Sean Kelly [00:42]: "I feel like most comedians don't last more than 10 minutes."

Carrot Top attributes his success to passion and enjoyment of the craft, emphasizing the thrill of performing to new audiences every night.

Carrot Top [00:57]: "I think enjoying the process of writing jokes. I love the energy of getting up there and doing it every night. It's a new crowd, new audience, so it's fun."

Unique Comedy Style and Use of Props

A significant aspect of Carrot Top's act is his use of props, which differentiates him in the comedy scene. He discusses the origins and challenges of integrating props into his routines, aiming to maintain originality while avoiding accusations of material theft.

Carrot Top [02:22]: "I kind of went the route I did with the props and the other stuff, because I'm saying no one could say I stole their act. I mean, I'm carrying around a walker with a dildo on it and a crime watch sign."

The incorporation of visually engaging props allows Carrot Top to deliver observational humor that resonates with diverse audiences.

Carrot Top [07:43]: "It's all visually funny. Like, you'll see a picture of a plane backing into the tarmac. So it's funny looking because people."

Dealing with Material Theft and Industry Challenges

Carrot Top opens up about instances where his material and props have been replicated by other shows, highlighting the competitive nature of the entertainment industry.

Carrot Top [02:59]: "People have tried to steal my props, like, just to have them. Yeah, we catch them all the time. Like, dad, you can't take that."

He recounts a specific incident where his joke was mimicked on Jay Jay the Show, showcasing the rapid cycle of idea replication in television.

Carrot Top [04:16]: "I've been on the show, like it was a week later... They just lift them like they did mine."

Acting Ventures and Improvisation in Film

Carrot Top shares anecdotes from his acting career, including unexpected appearances in popular films like The Hangover. He describes the spontaneity involved in these roles and the improvisational skills required.

Carrot Top [16:00]: "I was in the Hangover. It was improvised. They wanted me to pull a shirt up and lay on Zach's belly drunk. So we improvised with lines about coke."

He also discusses his participation in projects like Chairman of the Board and guest roles in television series such as Reno 911 and Family Guy.

Carrot Top [21:07]: "We did a movie called Chairman of the Board... It was my movie starring me. It was fun and still holds up to this day."

Personal Discipline and Lifestyle in the Entertainment Capital

Living and performing in Las Vegas presents myriad distractions, from parties to nightlife. Carrot Top emphasizes the importance of discipline in maintaining his focus and professionalism.

Carrot Top [11:15]: "I am disciplined. That is a really big part of the comedy, too. You gotta stay focused and always keep it tight."

He reveals that he avoids common pitfalls associated with the Vegas lifestyle, such as excessive partying and substance abuse, to sustain his rigorous performance schedule.

Carrot Top [12:00]: "I would go out more when I was young because I had energy... Now it's like, let's go on my sports center."

Evolving Landscape of Comedy and the Impact of Social Media

The conversation shifts to the changing dynamics of the comedy industry, particularly the decline of traditional late-night shows and the rise of podcasts and social media platforms. Carrot Top reflects on his experiences adapting to these changes.

Carrot Top [05:14]: "Those shows were turning real political. It turns away a lot of people. I've been doing it for years and it was always just fun."

He recognizes the emergence of internet stars and acknowledges that while some comedians thrive on social media, his strategy remains rooted in live performances and prop-based humor.

Carrot Top [23:14]: "Some people become huge Internet stars... But for me, it's about live shows and the props."

Future Projects and Creative Endeavors

Looking ahead, Carrot Top discusses his ambitions beyond stand-up comedy, including writing a book, developing a documentary, and potential movie projects. He expresses enthusiasm for exploring diverse creative outlets while staying true to his comedic roots.

Carrot Top [14:14]: "We're trying to do a documentary. I'm trying to write a book. There's some talk about maybe a movie or two."

He also mentions ongoing roles and the possibility of expanding his presence in various media.

Carrot Top [28:51]: "I'm working on a horror movie where I'm a killer clown covered in blood. It's really cool."

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Carrot Top illustrates the blend of creativity, discipline, and resilience required to thrive in the competitive world of comedy. Sean Kelly's insightful questioning allows listeners to appreciate the depth of Carrot Top's dedication and the evolution of his unique comedic style. From his enduring Las Vegas performances to his ventures in acting and media, Carrot Top remains a dynamic figure in entertainment, continually adapting to the industry's shifts while maintaining his signature prop-driven humor.

Sean Kelly [29:28]: "We'll link it all below. And I'm gonna check out your show soon."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Carrot Top [00:33]: "Well, if you add up all of them, I think 30 years. Yeah, 30 years. Eight. 19 at Deluxe or. And 10 at MGM. And it's almost 31 of bellies."

• Sean Kelly [00:42]: "I feel like most comedians don't last more than 10 minutes."

• Carrot Top [00:57]: "I think enjoying the process of writing jokes. I love the energy of getting up there and doing it every night. It's a new crowd, new audience, so it's fun."

• Carrot Top [02:22]: "I kind of went the route I did with the props and the other stuff, because I'm saying no one could say I stole their act."

• Carrot Top [07:43]: "It's all visually funny. Like, you'll see a picture of a plane backing into the tarmac. So it's funny looking because people."

• Carrot Top [11:15]: "I am disciplined. That is a really big part of the comedy, too. You gotta stay focused and always keep it tight."

• Carrot Top [16:00]: "I was in the Hangover. It was improvised. They wanted me to pull a shirt up and lay on Zach's belly drunk."

• Sean Kelly [29:28]: "We'll link it all below. And I'm gonna check out your show soon."

Where to Find Carrot Top

Listeners interested in experiencing Carrot Top's dynamic performances can catch his shows at the Lux Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Additional information and updates are available on his official website carrottop.com and social media platforms:

• Instagram: @realcarrottoplive
• Twitter: @realcarrottop
• Facebook: CarrotTopOfficial

Tune In

For a comprehensive look into the world of Carrot Top, his innovative use of props, and his journey in the comedy landscape, listen to episode #792 of Digital Social Hour on your preferred podcast platform.