Jim Gaffigan's Lovable Character

You know the phrase "If it works, don't change it." This saying goes for one of today's beloved comedians, Jim Gaffigan. With the same comedy routine recycled one act after another, one would think Gaffigan's comedy may become a little dull and predictable at times. But on the other hand, every successful comic has recycled his/her act accordingly in order to stay on top. It is too risky to completely alter your persona into a new one. The audience might respond negatively. This is why, if the act works and people love you, do not change it. 

Going back to Jim Gaffigan, the man has literally used the same routine over and over again to achieve acceptance and a good reputation. His routine mainly composes of these two subjects: laziness and food. Although these two topics may seem dull, they are actually a great catalyst for laughs through the fact that almost everyone can relate to them in some way. Everyone has gone through times of laziness and everyone eats. Jim Gaffigan merely uses these two ideas to create comedy.

Using general everyday issues are not the only reason for Gaffigan's success. Obviously, his personality plays a large role. I have said earlier that Gaffigan sticks to one persona. Well, that persona actually comprises of several personas, or personalities with different voices..

Jim (himself) - This voice lets the audience know he is acting as a normal person, telling a story. When acting as himself, Jim uses his dry humor personality. This creates a sense of integrity for the viewers. He usually begins jokes with this personality, as a hook, then later changes as the story transitions into the actual joke. 

Cranky Old Man - This time, Jim disguises himself as the lazy-man of the joke. Whether it's not finding the remote control or just too tired to get out of bed, this voice really paints the scenario into the viewer's head. Everyone has had their share of lazy-man syndrome, which is why people can relate and ultimately appreciate Jim's comedy.  

Moron - This personality/voice is simple: Jim depicts himself as an idiot. Sharing embarrassing moments and dumb statements is often tied into his lazy persona. But in a way, it is different. People are aware of their laziness. Ignorant people, on the other hand, are ignorant of their ignorance. This requires a different level of comedy. The moron personality, Jim acts as, produces this vision for people to laugh at. However, people subconsciously know they make similar mistakes which again, helps people understand the mind of Gaffigan. 

The Conservative - Occasionally after a joke, Jim likes to pretend as if he is one the audience members in the crowd. This character is your conservative, politically-correct evangelist who is somehow put off, after a joke. This is how it works. First Jim starts in with his joke, making fun of somehthing, then he shifts as a viewer and reacts in a defensive way. 

Gaffigan has a few other personalities, but these four make up most of his act. If you watch Jim long enough, you will eventually come across all four of these voices. 

Out of Gaffigan's success, I would say 90% of it consists of two subjects and four voices: laziness and food, and Jim (himself), Cranky Old Man, Moron, and The Conservative. But it is through this style why Gaffigan continues to be loved. His persona captures the behavior of the average American.  To watch some of Gaffigan's work, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9c9lAfXQHs