Funny Women of a Certain Age

Funny Women of a Certain Age is a one-hour comedy special and a brilliant celebration of seasoned comedians, which debuted in 2019 to uproarious applause. The standout special serves not only as a testament to the timeless performances of each comedianne, but also as a striking vindication of women in the comedy industry who are over 50, shredding the stereotypical view of middle-aged women.

Produced by Showtime, the comedy special happens to be the first one to feature solely female comedians over the age of 50. The line-up includes the likes of popular actresses and comedians such as Fran Drescher, best known for her role in the beloved sitcom The Nanny, Lynne Koplitz, a seasoned comic who's had specials on Netflix, and Vanessa Hollingshead, who's renowned for her compelling storytelling and incisive humor. Together, they represent the respect, admiration, and representation that is due to female comedians of a 'certain age.'

Without giving away too much, it's safe to say that each of the talented comediennes uses their stage time to its maximum potential. Deploying an arsenal of jokes that range from poignant to hilarious, they bring a blend of good-natured warmth, biting wit, and unapologetic honesty. Each segment is filled with their own unique brand of humor, often providing commentaries on their personal experiences, societal expectations, and the realities of aging.

Fran Drescher, best known for her distinctive accent and infectious laughter, shifts effortlessly from lighthearted banter to a heartfelt exploration of her own personal journey. From discussing her cancer survival to her divorced status, the humor highlighted throughout her performance is a testament to her remarkable spirit and resilience. Drescher spills her heart on the stage, drawing laughter and admiration from the audience as she uses her comedic prowess to lay bare the often unspoken truths and trials of life.

Vanessa Hollingshead, identified for her sharp humor and raconteur skills, delves into topics that range from the complications of relationships, complexities of modern dating to experiences of aging. Her wit and candid style push the boundaries, escorting the audience on a rollercoaster ride of laughter as her time on stage unfolds.

Offering a comedic perspective on her menopause journey, Lynne Koplitz steals the show with her unpretentious and hilarious stand-up routine. She uses her stage time to discuss women's issues, the trials of middle age, and unconventional aspects of femininity. Koplitz’s humor is zesty, insightful, ticking all the right boxes when it comes to generating laughter.

Funny Women of a Certain Age continues to disrupt ageism in popular culture and delivers an unforgettable night of laughs. Looking beyond the stereotype, the stand-up special allows women of a certain age to take center stage, bringing their unique perspectives to the forefront. By addressing things like aging and experiences tied to it, the stand-up special invalidates any dismissal that these women are past their prime.

The executive producers, Carole Montgomery and Dave Goldberg, have succeeded in curating and directing this sparkling line-up of powerful women, presenting them with the respect and visibility they deserve. They manage to perfectly capture the charm, appeal, and hilarity of these seasoned comedians, underlining the continued relevance and talent of these women.

In summary, Funny Women of a Certain Age is more than a comedy special. It is an affirmation, a tribute to women over 50, highlighting their resonance, relevance, and importance in an industry often dominated by younger artists. By featuring women over the age of 50, who often feel invisible in a youth-obsessed society, the broadcast serves as a beacon of celebration, wisdom, humor, and life experience. It’s a must-watch for those who love to laugh, appreciate good humour, and those looking for an unstereotypical portrayal of women in the world of comedy and entertainment. The special is indeed a watershed moment for funny women of a certain age.