Ep 20. The Comedian

"Playhouse 90" was one of the most prestigious drama anthology series of the 1950s, packing a powerful punch with its slate of well-produced, live television plays that brought Broadway-caliber talents into American living rooms. The first season's twentieth episode is titled 'The Comedian,' an intense, insightful peek behind the curtain of show business and the complex dynamics at play within it. Aired on February 14, 1957, this episode is especially noteworthy for its potent examination of the human psyche amid the high pressures of comedic performance and television stardom.

The story of 'The Comedian' revolves around Sam 'Kogo' Hogan, a famous TV comedian who is universally loved by his audience but reveals a starkly different side off-camera. Kogo is not just the loveable funnyman his audience adores, but a complex, troubled individual prone to fits of anger, jealousy, and a relentless pursuit of perfection in his craft. His ruthless egocentrism not only feeds his success but also fuels a toxic environment for those who work with him and live in his shadow.

As the audience is taken on a deep dive into the life and mind of this beloved comic figure, we explore the relationships he has distorted with his domineering personality. This includes his long-suffering writing staff who are tasked with keeping the laughs coming episode after episode amidst Kogo's explosive temper and incessant demands. Writers are seen both bending to his will and attempting to navigate the treacherous waters of humorous creativity under the thumb of a tyrant.

The psychological complexity extends to Kogo's personal life, especially in his interactions with his brother Eddie, who is a part of his supporting cast. Eddie's life and self-worth are inextricably linked to Kogo's stardom, leading to a dynamic that is both personally and professionally challenging. Their relationship provides a stark examination of sibling rivalry, dependency, and the emotional toll of living near someone propelled by such narcissistic and self-serving energies.

A central theme of 'The Comedian' is the contrast between public perception and private reality. The episode lays bare the cost of fame and the sacrifices that are often made in the pursuit of entertainment. The show turns a critical eye on the culture of celebrity and the television industry's demands, emphasizing the relentless pressure faced by those whose existence requires constant performances, whether on-screen or off.

The performances in this episode are often referred to with high regard, with actors delivering complex and nuanced portrayals that stayed with viewers. The protagonist especially draws deep into the well of human emotion, presenting a figure who is both magnetic and repellent, his charisma matched only by the depths of his paranoia and insecurity.

Directorial and writing choices also hold a significant place in the legacy of 'The Comedian'. Traditionally, "Playhouse 90" episodes were broadcast live, and this installment is no exception, adding a degree of immediacy and intensity to the proceedings. The direction is deft, ensuring that despite being contained within a television studio, the episode explodes with the life and tension of real-world events.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers are exposed to the machinations behind the scripts, the bargaining, and the backstabbing, all juxtaposed with moments of genuine humor that belie the darkness seeping through the show’s festive exterior. Writers are both spotlighted and subjugated within their creative space, a contradiction that enhances the episode's examination of the relationship between the creator and his creations.

Moreover, 'The Comedian' not only focuses on its titular star but sheds light on the little people—the assistants, the minor actors, the production crew—who constitute the backbone of any show and whose lives are impacted by the whims and moods of the headlining act. It is also a sobering reminder that the laughs come at a cost, and that the spotlight can cast some very long and very dark shadows.

In summary, 'The Comedian' stands out in the annals of television history as a hard-hitting piece about the pain hidden behind the comedy mask. It crafts a narrative that dissects the dichotomy between an artist’s public persona and private persona, while also providing a timeless commentary on the nature of show business and the human spirit. As with all episodes of "Playhouse 90," it is a rich, dramatic experience, boldly confronting issues that remain as relevant today as they were over half a century ago.