Since 1963, the Improvisation Comedy Clubs have remained the premier stages for live comedy in the United States. Over the decades, the talent who have graced Improv stages represent the Who’s Who in American comedy.
Located at the epicenter of the entertainment world, the legendary Hollywood Improv opened decades ago and continues to deliver a combination of A-list comedy, great food and strong cocktails. In the days leading up to its 1975 opening, a young Jay Leno could be found helping paint the ceilings. The club’s iconic brick wall and trademark piano have become symbols of stand-up comedy around the globe. Hollywood Improv is recognized for developing the careers of countless comedy superstars and providing the setting for the popular television show, “An Evening at the Improv.”
As in New York, the next generation of artists and entertainment executives worked the Improv—on stage, in the house, and behind the bar. Actor/comedian Adam Devine (“Workaholics,” “Pitch Perfect”), comedy manager Jimmy Miller (Jim Carrey), and writer/producer/director Judd Apatow (“The 40 Year-Old Virgin” “Knocked Up”) were part of the fraternity of door managers. Actress Debra Winger (“Urban Cowboy,” “Terms of Endearment”) and writer Callie Khouri (“Thelma & Louise”) were waitresses. And the very first bartender was actor/comedian Kevin Nealon (“SNL,” “Weeds”).
