Sam Kinison

Sam Kinison (1953–1992) was an American stand-up comedian and actor known for confrontational routines, a piercing yell, and dark humor.

Bill Hicks: Bill Hicks was an American stand-up comedian known for political satire and confrontational social criticism. Hicks shared Kinison’s Texas comedy scene and abrasive, high-intensity stage persona.
Stand-up comedy: Stand-up comedy is a performance in which a comedian addresses an audience directly, usually with jokes or stories. Kinison’s work depended on the direct exchange between comic and live audience.
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson: The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was an American late-night television talk show hosted by Johnny Carson from 1962 to 1992. Kinison’s appearance on the show in 1985 helped introduce him to a national audience.
Peoria, Illinois: Peoria is a city in central Illinois on the Illinois River. Kinison was born in Peoria in 1953.
1980s comedy boom: The 1980s comedy boom was a rapid expansion of stand-up clubs, cable specials, and televised comedy in the United States. Kinison became a prominent figure as stand-up reached larger audiences through clubs and television.
Rodney Dangerfield: Rodney Dangerfield was an American comedian and actor known for self-deprecating humor and the catchphrase “I don’t get no respect.” Dangerfield helped bring Kinison to wider attention by featuring him at his comedy club.
Comic persona: A comic persona is a performed character or public identity through which a comedian delivers material. Kinison’s furious preacher-like presence made his routines more than spoken punchlines.
Back to School: Back to School is a 1986 American comedy film starring Rodney Dangerfield as a wealthy man who returns to college. Kinison played Professor Terguson in this film, one of his best-known acting roles.
Pentecostalism: Pentecostalism is a Christian movement emphasizing direct spiritual experience, including speaking in tongues and divine healing. Kinison grew up in a Pentecostal family and worked as a preacher before comedy.
Outlaw comedy: Outlaw comedy is a confrontational style that rejects polite conventions through provocative material and an unruly persona. Kinison’s aggression and taboo-breaking helped define this strain of stand-up.

Linked from 2 pages