Nick Kroll's Comedic Reign: From 'Kroll Show' Sketch Master to Broadway Star

Nick Kroll: A Comedic Force to Be Reckoned With

Nick Kroll, a name synonymous with witty character work, sharp observational humor, and a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of human connection, has carved a unique and impressive space for himself in the comedy landscape. From the sketch comedy brilliance of 'Kroll Show' to the Broadway triumph of 'Oh, Hello,' his journey showcases a remarkable versatility and dedication to his craft. This article delves into the different facets of his career, examining the key elements that have contributed to his enduring comedic reign.

The Foundation: Early Stand-Up and Character Development

Kroll's foray into comedy began with stand-up, a proving ground for many aspiring comedians. While stand-up remains a component of his work, Kroll distinguished himself early on through character work. He developed a keen eye for observing and exaggerating the nuances of different personalities, laying the groundwork for the character-driven comedy that would become his signature.

His early characters, often featured in online videos and live performances, demonstrated a willingness to embrace the absurd and push boundaries. These initial forays, while perhaps not widely known, were crucial in honing his comedic instincts and solidifying his commitment to character-based humor.

'Kroll Show': A Sketch Comedy Masterpiece

'Kroll Show,' which aired on Comedy Central from 2013 to 2015, stands as a testament to Kroll's comedic genius. The show was a vibrant tapestry of recurring characters, outlandish scenarios, and self-aware humor. Each episode weaved together interconnected sketches, creating a world that was both hilarious and surprisingly relatable.

Key Recurring Segments and Characters:

• The PubLIZity Girls: Liz G. and Liz B., two relentlessly self-promoting publicists who embody the vapidity and superficiality of modern celebrity culture. Their exaggerated personalities and commitment to ridiculous schemes made them instant fan favorites.
• Wheels Ontario: A parody of Canadian teen dramas, Wheels Ontario followed a group of high school students navigating the challenges of adolescence, all while confined to wheelchairs. The segment tackled sensitive subjects with a surprising amount of heart and humor.
• Ref Jeff: A flamboyant and over-the-top reality TV referee who injected absurdity into everyday situations. Ref Jeff's enthusiastic pronouncements and dramatic gestures were a constant source of amusement.
• Bobby Bottleservice and Peter Paparazzo: Two hilariously inept and morally questionable characters who embodied the excesses of the nightlife scene. Their misguided attempts to navigate the world of celebrity and entertainment consistently resulted in comedic chaos.

The Secret to 'Kroll Show's' Success:

Several factors contributed to the show's cult following and critical acclaim:

• Character Depth: Despite their often-outlandish nature, the characters in 'Kroll Show' possessed a surprising amount of depth. Kroll and his collaborators (including John Mulaney, Jenny Slate, and Chelsea Peretti) invested in developing backstories and motivations for each character, making them feel more than just one-dimensional caricatures.
• Self-Aware Humor: The show frequently poked fun at itself and the conventions of sketch comedy. This self-awareness allowed it to push boundaries and experiment with different comedic styles without becoming stale or predictable.
• Strong Writing and Performances: The writing was consistently sharp and witty, and the performances were uniformly excellent. The cast fully embraced the absurdity of the material, delivering committed and believable portrayals of their eccentric characters.
• Relatability: While the show often dealt with outlandish scenarios, it also touched on universal themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery. This relatability allowed viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, even amidst the comedic chaos.

'Kroll Show' established Kroll as a comedic force to be reckoned with, showcasing his talent for character creation, writing, and performance. It also solidified his reputation as a risk-taker who was willing to push the boundaries of comedy.

'Oh, Hello' on Broadway: A Transformative Experience

Following the success of 'Kroll Show,' Kroll teamed up with John Mulaney to bring their characters, Gil Faizon and George St. Geegland, to the Broadway stage in 'Oh, Hello.' The show, a hilariously meta and self-referential two-man play, was a critical and commercial success, further cementing Kroll's status as a comedic powerhouse.

The Characters: Gil Faizon and George St. Geegland

Gil Faizon and George St. Geegland are two elderly, opinionated, and perpetually clueless New Yorkers who host a public-access television show called 'Too Much Tuna.' Their signature bit involves presenting guests with a sandwich overflowing with tuna salad, a gag that perfectly encapsulates their bizarre and offbeat sense of humor.

The Show: A Blend of Improvisation and Scripted Comedy

'Oh, Hello' was a unique blend of scripted comedy and improvisation. While the basic structure of the show remained consistent, Kroll and Mulaney incorporated new jokes and improvisational moments into each performance, keeping the show fresh and unpredictable. The show satirized New York City culture, aging, and the absurdity of public access television. A major element of each show involved a 'guest' star who was interviewed by Gil and George and ultimately subjected to the 'Too Much Tuna' sandwich. These guests added a unique element each night and allowed Kroll and Mulaney to showcase their improvisation skills.

Broadway Success: A Testament to Their Chemistry

The success of 'Oh, Hello' on Broadway was a testament to the undeniable chemistry between Kroll and Mulaney. Their comedic timing, improvisational skills, and shared sensibility created a dynamic and engaging performance that resonated with audiences. The show’s success proved that comedic character work could thrive on Broadway, paving the way for other unconventional performances.

The Broadway run of 'Oh, Hello' was a pivotal moment in Kroll's career, demonstrating his ability to connect with a wider audience and his versatility as a performer. It also showcased his willingness to take risks and experiment with different comedic formats.

Beyond 'Kroll Show' and Broadway: A Diverse Career

While 'Kroll Show' and 'Oh, Hello' represent significant milestones in Kroll's career, they are just two examples of his diverse range of talents. He has also found success in stand-up comedy, film, television, and voice acting.

Stand-Up Comedy: Honest and Observational

Kroll's stand-up comedy is characterized by his honest and observational humor. He often draws on personal experiences and relatable situations to create material that is both funny and insightful. While he may not be as widely known for his stand-up as some of his peers, it remains an important part of his artistic expression.

Film and Television: Versatility and Range

Kroll has appeared in a variety of films and television shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He has taken on roles ranging from comedic to dramatic, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different genres and styles. Some notable film and television credits include:

• 'The League': A comedy series about a group of friends in a fantasy football league. Kroll played Rodney Ruxin, a morally ambiguous and relentlessly competitive character.
• 'Adult Beginners': A dramedy about a Manhattan slacker who moves in with his sister's family after losing his investment. Kroll played Jake, the slacker, showcasing his ability to portray both comedic and dramatic moments.
• 'Loving': A historical drama about an interracial couple who fought for their right to marry in Virginia in the 1960s. Kroll played Bernard Cohen, an ACLU lawyer who helped the couple with their case. This role demonstrated Kroll’s range and ability to handle serious subject matter.
• 'Sausage Party': An animated comedy about anthropomorphic food items in a grocery store. Kroll voiced Douche, an antagonistic douche.
• 'Sing': An animated musical comedy where Kroll voiced Gunter, a German pig who loves to dance.
• 'Big Mouth': An animated comedy series that explores the awkwardness and challenges of puberty. Kroll co-created and voices several characters, including Nick Birch, Maurice the Hormone Monster, and Coach Steve.

Voice Acting: A Natural Talent

Kroll's voice acting work is particularly noteworthy. His distinctive voice and ability to create memorable characters have made him a sought-after voice actor in both film and television. His role in 'Big Mouth' is a prime example of his talent, as he voices multiple characters, each with their own unique personality and vocal characteristics.

'Big Mouth': Exploring the Awkwardness of Adolescence

Perhaps Kroll's most significant post-'Kroll Show' project is 'Big Mouth,' an animated comedy series that he co-created with Andrew Goldberg, Jennifer Flackett, and Mark Levin. The show, which premiered on Netflix in 2017, follows a group of middle school students as they navigate the challenges of puberty.

Honest and Unflinching Portrayal of Puberty

'Big Mouth' is notable for its honest and unflinching portrayal of puberty. The show tackles sensitive subjects such as sexuality, body image, and social anxiety with a refreshing level of candor. While the show is often crude and explicit, it is also surprisingly insightful and relatable.

Voice Acting Prowess and Character Creation

Kroll's voice acting prowess is on full display in 'Big Mouth.' He voices several key characters, including Nick Birch, Maurice the Hormone Monster, and Coach Steve. Each character is distinct and memorable, showcasing Kroll's range and ability to create compelling characters through voice acting alone.

Critical Acclaim and Popularity

'Big Mouth' has been a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its writing, performances, and willingness to tackle difficult subjects. The show has also garnered a large and dedicated fanbase, particularly among young adults who appreciate its honest and relatable portrayal of adolescence.

Impact on Comedy and Animation

'Big Mouth' has had a significant impact on both comedy and animation. The show has pushed boundaries in terms of content and style, and it has helped to pave the way for other animated comedies that tackle mature themes. It has also demonstrated the power of animation to tell stories that are both funny and meaningful.

The Future of Nick Kroll's Comedic Reign

Nick Kroll's career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and willingness to take risks. From his early days in stand-up to his success on 'Kroll Show,' Broadway, and 'Big Mouth,' he has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged expectations. As he continues to evolve as a performer and creator, it is clear that his comedic reign is far from over.

Continued Innovation and Exploration

Looking ahead, it is likely that Kroll will continue to innovate and explore new comedic formats. He has already demonstrated his ability to excel in a variety of mediums, and he is likely to continue to seek out new challenges and opportunities.

Further Development of 'Big Mouth'

'Big Mouth' remains a central focus of Kroll's work. The show has a large and dedicated fanbase, and it is likely to continue to be a success for many years to come. Kroll and his collaborators are likely to continue to develop the show's characters and explore new themes related to adolescence and adulthood.

Potential for New Projects

In addition to his existing projects, Kroll is likely to develop new projects in the future. He has a proven track record of creating successful and innovative comedy, and he is likely to continue to do so. Whether it's through new television shows, films, or theatrical productions, Kroll is sure to remain a significant force in the comedy world for years to come.

A Lasting Legacy

Nick Kroll's comedic legacy is already significant. He has created memorable characters, written sharp and witty scripts, and pushed the boundaries of comedy. His work has influenced a generation of comedians and entertained millions of people around the world. As he continues to evolve as a performer and creator, his legacy will only continue to grow.

Key Takeaways from Nick Kroll's Career:

• Embrace Character Work: Kroll's success is largely attributed to his ability to create memorable and relatable characters. Aspiring comedians can learn from his approach by focusing on character development and observation.
• Don't Be Afraid to Take Risks: Kroll has consistently pushed boundaries and experimented with different comedic formats. This willingness to take risks has been crucial to his success.
• Collaborate with Talented Individuals: Kroll has collaborated with a variety of talented writers, performers, and directors. These collaborations have helped him to create some of his most successful and innovative work.
• Be Authentic: Kroll's comedy is often personal and honest. This authenticity allows him to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
• Persevere: Kroll's journey to success was not always easy. He faced rejection and setbacks along the way, but he persevered and continued to develop his craft.

Conclusion: A Comedic Innovator

Nick Kroll is more than just a comedian; he's a comedic innovator. His ability to seamlessly blend character work, observational humor, and heartfelt storytelling has made him a unique and influential voice in the entertainment industry. From the sketch comedy brilliance of 'Kroll Show' to the Broadway triumph of 'Oh, Hello' and the animated honesty of 'Big Mouth,' Kroll has consistently challenged expectations and pushed the boundaries of comedy. As he continues to evolve and explore new creative avenues, one thing is certain: Nick Kroll's comedic reign will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.

Kroll's influence extends beyond just laughter. He has sparked conversations about adolescence, body image, and the human experience. His willingness to embrace vulnerability and honesty in his work has resonated with audiences of all ages, solidifying his place as a comedic force for good. His shows often provide a platform for other comedians and actors to showcase their talents, furthering the reach of innovative comedic ideas.