The Bootleg Files: Laugh-In

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Phil Hall

BOOTLEG FILES 918: “Laugh-In” (short-lived 1977 reboot of the classic comedy show).

LAST SEEN: On YouTube.

AMERICAN HOME VIDEO: None.

REASON FOR BOOTLEG STATUS: Legal issues are keeping it out of commercial re-release.

CHANCES OF SEEING A COMMERCIAL DVD RELEASE: Not likely.

In 1977, NBC offered its audience “Laugh-In,” a reboot of the classic 1968-73 comedy series “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.” George Schlatter, the producer on the original series, was brought back to helm this new effort. However, Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, the stars of the original production, were unaware this new series was being created – and considering that they owned a piece of that franchise, the lack of communication created more than just ill-will. Rowan & Martin sued Schlatter for using the original show’s format without their permission – the lawsuit was settled out of court in 1980.
Continue reading →

Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In: The Complete Series (DVD)

Posted on March 21, 2021 by Phil Hall

Few television programs hit the airwaves with the impact of “Rowan & Martin Laugh-In.” With its rapid-fire skein of zany sketches, topical humor, hipster catch phrases, go-go dancing, and zeitgeist-hugging mod fashions and pop-art production design, the program defined the spirit the free-wheeling and often chaotic late 1960s and early 1970s.
Continue reading →

Alan Sues: A Funny Man

Posted on May 29, 2017 by Phil Hall

In 1968, Alan Sues became a household name thanks to his wacky persona on the TV hit “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In.” But he was hardly an overnight success – he enjoyed a long career on Broadway, in flims, in nightclubs and on television (including a classic “Twilight Zone” episode) before “Laugh-In” came around. On today’s show, our guest is Michael Michaud, author of the new biography “Alan Sues: A Funny Man.” If you recall the “Laugh-In” cut-up or you are just discovering his zany humor, you’ll love this episode.

The episode can be heard here.