Sarah Silverman 2012 Just for Laughs Interview

Issue 258

Leave it to tart-tongued comedian Sarah Silverman to respond to the recent "war on women" with her own headlining show at this year's TBS Just for Laughs. The cheekily named Sara's Pro-Choice is actually in reference to the stellar lineup of comics who will join her for a night of funny on Saturday 16 at the Chicago Theatre. We asked Silverman a handful of not-so-burning questions...

For Sarah's Pro-Choice, you've chosen Marc Maron, Natasha Leggero and Kyle Dunnigan to join you onstage. How did you come to know these comics and what do you like about each?

Marc I met in the mid-'90s in NYC. Natasha I met out in L.A. a few years ago and fell in love with everything about her. Reggie I met in New York I think...a few years ago. Love at first sight. Kyle I met a bunch of years ago through our mutual close friend and brilliant comedian Tig Notaro. This show is so strong—I can't wait to see it.

Tell us about "choosing" Sarah Silverman. What do you like about yourself and your style of comedy?

I just come with the package and I do like myself. I like my jokes or I wouldn't say them. I like my messiness on stage, though I watch comics who come at a joke from every angle and I think, 'Yeah! That's how it's done!' But for me it's the audience. If I feel connected to them I have so much fun and if not, it stinks.

What other "choices" are you making in your life these days?

Boring choices. I only let myself watch my favorite shows—Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Girls, The Killing—on the elliptical machine. It's working out well.

In 2008, you made a video called 'The Great Schlep' in which you encouraged young people to get their grandparents in Florida to vote. Will you be involved in any way in the 2012 election?

I'm thinking about it. Constantly.

If you were to see a show at Just for Laughs other than your own, what would it be?

Conan, Jeff Ross, Jeff Garlin. Who else is there?