Speakeasy with - Jim Gaffigan

Few people pull off dry sarcasm and clever wit like comedian Jim Gaffigan, who’s set to play the Tabernacle on Fri., June 16. That powerful combination is present in many of his jokes, like: “Isn’t it strange, when you’re single all you see is couples, but when you’re part of a couple all you see are hookers?” Or, “You ever read a book that changed your life? Me neither.” And although his act portrays him as a lazy simpleton from Indiana, he’s actually a highly capable actor, writer and pitchman who resides in New York City.</
You’ve worked as an actor, a comedian and a writer. Which job do you prefer, or do you like all of them equally?</
I really enjoy doing all three, and I do feel they complement each other very nicely. Additionally, if I did just one, I’m convinced I would be in rehab right now. Concentrated rejection in one field would be too much. I like to spread it out.</
How do you find the time and energy to write, perform and chill on the couch?</
Ah, success has really ruined my laziness ambition. I still manage to be a lazy ass occasionally ... but not as much as I’d like. I suppose it’s hard to prove you’re lazy.</
Your new album’s title, Beyond the Pale, while a figure of speech, clearly makes reference to your skin tone. Were you teased as a kid for being so pasty white?</
Oh, yeah. I think anyone who was 13 and hesitant to wear shorts can identify. It’s a lot of the inspiration behind “Pale Force” [a segment Gaffigan did on “The Late Show with Conan O’Brien”], too. Some pale kids become goth, I became a comic. I find it amazing how many really pale people come out to my shows. It’s awesome.