Bob Zany's storied career in the entertainment industry commenced in 1977, a pivotal year that would lay the groundwork for his future success, when at the tender age of fifteen, he made his debut on the infamous Gong Show, a program notorious for its unpredictable and often chaotic atmosphere.
His initial appearance on the show was marked by a rather unconventional stand-up routine, one that he read from a piece of paper, a quirk that would prove to be a defining characteristic of his early years as a comedian. However, his big break was short-lived, as his performance was abruptly cut short by a man dressed in a nun's habit, who wielded a net with a sense of urgency that left the audience in stitches.
Despite this inauspicious beginning, Zany's determination and perseverance ultimately paid off, as he made a triumphant return to the show eleven years later, this time as a celebrity judge, a role that would mark the beginning of his prolific career on national television, a career that would eventually span over 100 appearances on various programs.
After completing his studies at Mt. San Antonio College, Zany pursued a career in broadcasting by applying for a position as a newscaster at the campus radio station. Although he was initially unsuccessful, he didn't allow the setback to discourage him. Later that same year, he decided to audition for the owner of The Ice House in Pasadena, a renowned comedy club that seats approximately 300 patrons. The audition took place in the middle of the afternoon, and as Zany walked into the empty showroom, the only occupied chair belonged to the owner, who delivered a blunt assessment of his performance, stating, "You're not ready." Undeterred by the rejection, Zany surveyed the empty room and responded with a quick-witted remark, "Neither is your club!" This bold response seemed to pique the owner's interest, and eventually, Zany was able to convince him to allow him to produce his own show, which would go on to feature a diverse range of up-and-coming comedians, including Garry Shandling, Yakov Smirnoff, Robert Wuhl, Kevin Nealon, and Nia Peeples.
The remarkable achievements of Bob Zany's television program did not go unnoticed, as it garnered the attention of Frazier Smith, a renowned radio show host at KLOS/LA, a top-rated radio station. Impressed by Zany's unique brand of humor, Smith subsequently offered him a position as a personality with his own show on Saturday mornings. This breakthrough opportunity marked the beginning of a new chapter in Zany's career, as he went on to establish a chain of comedy clubs, aptly named Bob Zany's Comedy Outlets, which expanded to over 50 locations throughout California and Nevada. Furthermore, Zany released a comedy album, titled "Hi Home, I'm Honey", which was distributed by Laff Records, a prominent record label in the industry.
Not only did Zany's creative energies extend beyond the realm of comedy, but he also embarked on a forthcoming literary endeavour, penning a forthcoming diet scrapbook, aptly titled "Laugh at Fat, Bay-bee!", which showcases his unique blend of wit and wisdom.
Moreover, Zany was afforded the esteemed opportunity to collaborate with his venerated idol, the incomparable Steve Martin, on the prestigious George Burns' Comedy Week, an experience that undoubtedly left an indelible mark on his artistic trajectory.
However, a pivotal life-altering event transpired in the year 1991, when Zany underwent a remarkable transformation, shedding a staggering 175 pounds, thereby necessitating a fundamental reassessment of his stage persona and artistic approach.
The following twelve-month period was instrumental in Zany's artistic development, as he devoted himself to refining his skills by performing at numerous late-night comedy club gigs in Hollywood, ultimately transforming himself into the charismatic, audience-participation-driven entertainer that has garnered widespread acclaim.
