Make Me Laugh (1979–1980) User Reviews

It Made Me Laugh

[snoops · 8/10 · 26 August 2010]

When I read one of the previous reviews, I had to reply with one of my own. He mentioned being a senior in high school during the run of "Make Me Laugh", and how he lived in Houston at the time. So did I! He said it came on Channel 39, at 9:30 each night. He is RIGHT. I had forgotten which channel it was, although I knew it was one of the independent ones. I also recalled it was on at night. I just didn't remember the exact time, until I read his review. THANK YOU for bringing it all back! While he was in high school at the time, I was in elementary school. Yes I agree, it was a good way to unwind, and end the day. The comedians were often funny. Sometimes, they could be more silly, but it was all good, fun entertainment. The celebrity guest was something I always looked forward to. They would play for a random member of the audience. My favorite remains Shirley Hemphill, who did not crack a smile.

For me personally, what made the show was the host, Bobby Van. He was always so likable. He seemed so nice, sweet, and down to earth. He really appealed to me, with his adorable smile. Had he been with us longer, I'm sure the show would have continued on for a few more years. I hate he passed away so early. His passing was a sudden, unexpected shock for me, which haunted me for years.

"Make Me Laugh" was a significant part of my childhood. From the disco theme song, to the fashions and hairstyles of the day, the thought of it alone continues to bring a smile to my face :)

Short Lived Classic!

[jwrowe3 · 19 June 2002]

This little syndicated game show gem was a staple of my senior year in high school TV viewing. If memory serves, CH39 in Houston, Texas had this show at 9:30 on week nights. Perfect stuff to end the day with.

You got to see some pretty funny comics do the best to get people to laugh at their stuff. If contestant didn't laugh, after a couple of tries by comedians, they won money. If they laughed, they lost.

I recall it had ran for only a year or so, and the host, Bobby Van, passed away in 1980. In the 1990's there was an attempt to revive the show, but the magic just wasn't there. Well for me, at least.

Best Gameshow EVER!!!

[cc14057 · 10/10 · 22 May 2006]

This show was the first place I believe I saw Garry Shandling and Gallager. The funniest episode ever was one where the contestant used Lamaze breathing to keep from laughing. It completely threw the comedians (the best comment was "hold on, I have some tires that need blowing up." What was especially fun was trying to see how long you could go without laughing. I cant remember what it was called but there was a later version of the show where contestants tried to guess how long audience members could go without laughing. then they had to try as well. All in all this was a very original show (which is rare for game shows) that really did make me laugh 8).

Great Show

[Sargebri · 6 April 2003]

This is one of the funniest shows I remember from my misbegotten youth. The thing I really look back at is the fact that so many great young comics got their start on this show. Franklin Ajaye, Bruce Baum and, of course, Mister Sledge-o-matic himself, Gallagher. Too bad this show still isn't on the air.