This is single-handedly the dumbest question I’ve ever been asked since starting stand-up. I’ve also been asked this question several times for some reason recently. Let’s break down why it’s so stupid.
First off, does anyone else get this question? Go to a bakery – “Can you bake?” “No, I burn the shit out of everything. I actually caught fire to my last three stores. You should probably run for your life before it happens again.” So the answer should be yes, I am hilarious. Then I sound like a pretentious ass, even though the question was tossed to me. I didn’t just offer it up. “I’m very funny. What do you think about that?”
The only thing worse than the above question is when you say yes, then usually someone says, “Tell me a joke then” or “Prove it.” This is where I punch them in the nuts and say see? I’m the best. Actually, I always say to that fun follow up, I’m a professional. Give me $100 and I’ll show you I’m funny. If not, you’ll never know what you missed. (No one ever pays, but the questions stop, and that’s what’s important)