Watch Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In: Series

Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In is a classic sketch comedy series that originally aired on NBC from 1968 to 1973. The show was highly popular in its time, and is now widely regarded as a groundbreaking and influential program that helped shaped the landscape of television comedy. The series was known for its fast-paced, non-stop humor, featuring a cast of zany characters, outrageous sketches, and catchphrases that quickly became part of the cultural lexicon of the era.

The show's hosts were Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, who served as the MCs for each episode and introduced the various sketches and comedic bits. The cast of Laugh-In included a number of talented comedians and actors, including, among others: Arte Johnson, Ruth Buzzi, Jo Anne Worley, Lily Tomlin, Goldie Hawn, Henry Gibson, and Judy Carne. The series was also famous for its guest stars, who ranged from musical acts like Tiny Tim and The Supremes to famous comedians such as Phyllis Diller and Flip Wilson.

The format of Laugh-In was unique for its time, featuring a rapid-fire series of jokes, gags, and skits that would switch back and forth between various settings and characters. Some of the most popular recurring sketches on the show included "Sock It To Me," which featured unsuspecting characters getting unexpectedly soaked with water, and "The Flying Fickle Finger of Fate," which gave humorous awards to various public figures.

In addition to its innovative format, Laugh-In was also noteworthy for its political commentary and social satire. The show was created during a tumultuous time in American history, and many of the sketches and jokes reflected the cultural upheaval of the era. The series took aim at politicians, religious leaders, and societal norms, often pushing boundaries and testing the limits of what was considered appropriate for television at the time. While some of the political material may seem dated by today's standards, the show's wry humor and subversive sensibility have helped it endure as a classic of the genre.

The Shout! Factory TV series offers a chance for viewers to revisit this classic comedy series and enjoy the humor and wit of one of the most popular programs in television history. The series is available to stream online, with all episodes from the entire five-season run. Fans of classic sketch comedy, as well as those who are interested in exploring the cultural and historical context of the era, will find much to enjoy in this hilarious and timeless program.

Overall, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In is a classic example of the innovative, boundary-pushing comedy that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, and helped pave the way for generations of comedians and shows that followed. With its iconic catchphrases, memorable characters, and biting satire, this classic series remains an essential piece of American pop culture, and a testament to the enduring power of laughter and entertainment.