Jim's comedy career commenced in 1973, marking the beginning of his illustrious journey as a comedian. It was during this period that he joined the renowned New York comedy trio, Divided We Stand, alongside two other talented comedians. The group's performances were highly sought after, with regular appearances at the iconic Improvisation Cafe and other prominent New York clubs, including The Bitter End, Catch a Rising Star, and The Bottom Line. However, their primary focus was on touring colleges and nightclubs across the country, sharing the stage with an impressive array of renowned artists. These esteemed performers included the legendary Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons, the iconic Beach Boys, the chart-topping Commodores, the beloved Jimmy Buffet, the timeless Righteous Brothers, the soulful Bill Withers, the funk-infused War, the nostalgic Sha-Na-Na, and the legendary Temptations.
In the year 1980, Jim seized the opportunity to pivot his career towards television writing, making the bold move of relocating to Los Angeles alongside his accomplished actress wife, Annie Gagen, to the city of Hollywood. He went on to pen and produce a plethora of popular television shows, his impressive repertoire including the likes of Silver Spoons, Punky Brewster, Mama's Family, Three's Company, Sanford, The Facts of Life, Empire, Kate and Allie, Too Close for Comfort, It's Gary Shandling's Show, Boys Will Be Boys, The Van Dyke Show, Amen, and Family Matters.
Additionally, Jim co-created and served as executive producer for the Disney Channel's highly acclaimed and commercially successful series, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, which later evolved into The Suite Life on Deck. Throughout the franchise's run, Jim garnered two esteemed Emmy nominations, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.
Jim's creative endeavors extend far beyond the realm of television, as he is also a talented playwright, whose work has garnered widespread acclaim. One of his most notable productions, the critically-acclaimed play "Only Kidding", enjoyed a successful off-Broadway run, spanning an impressive 500 performances, and earned itself not one, but two nominations for the prestigious Drama Desk Awards, including the coveted honor of Outstanding New Play.
Jim's esteemed play, Light Sensitive, made its debut at the renowned Old Globe Theater in San Diego, a prestigious institution that has fostered the growth of countless theatrical talents.
Since its premiere, Light Sensitive has enjoyed an impressive run, with over forty productions spanning across the United States, a testament to its enduring appeal and the playwright's mastery of his craft.
The play's accolades are a true reflection of its excellence, having garnered nominations for the coveted Jefferson Theater Award in Chicago, a distinction that acknowledges outstanding achievements in the world of theater.
In addition, Light Sensitive has received seven Drama-Logue Awards in Los Angeles, an Ovation Nomination, and five Bay Area Critics Awards, further solidifying its reputation as a standout work in the world of contemporary theater.
Jim's other notable work, Two Gentlemen of Corona, had its world premiere at the West Coast Ensemble in Los Angeles, a respected institution that has long been a hub for innovative and provocative theatrical productions.
This remarkable play has not only earned critical acclaim but has also won an LA Ovation Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes outstanding achievements in the Los Angeles theater community.
Furthermore, Two Gentlemen of Corona has recently been published by Samuel French, a leading publisher of theatrical works, ensuring its continued availability and accessibility to audiences and theater companies around the world.
Jim, a multifaceted individual with a passion for creative expression, has ventured into the realm of scriptwriting, penning both the book and lyrics to "UG", a humorous musical comedy that delves into the fascinating story of cavemen's discovery of theater. This captivating production, which premiered at the esteemed San Jose Stage Company, has since been published by the reputable Dramatists Play Service, making it accessible to a wider audience.
