Jim Breuer on Joe Biden, Comedy, Opening for Metallica, and SNL Memories

Jim Breuer Shares Thoughts on Joe Biden, Comedy, Metallica, and SNL

If legendary comedians Sam Kinison, George Carlin, and Richard Pryor had a combined comedic personality, it would resemble Jim Breuer. Breuer gets his energetic and loud performance style from Kinison, his thought-provoking humor from Carlin, and his relatable life humor from Pryor.

Breuer became famous for his time on “Saturday Night Live” in the late ‘90s and for starring alongside Dave Chappelle in the movie “Half Baked.” Recently, he spoke with us while on the road, helping his daughter move. Here are some highlights from our conversation.

The "Survival With Laughter" Tour

Jim Breuer: The tour name comes from the idea that these next few weeks are going to be chaotic. Regardless of our beliefs, we must come together and find humor in everything to get through it.

Comedy in an Election Year

Breuer believes that to make comedy work during an election year, you have to keep it simple. He explains that much of what people believe is fed to them by news and political slogans, rather than their own creation. He jokes about Joe Biden, comparing him to a CEO who is unfit to run a company, which he relates to the presidency.

New Material in His Shows

Breuer's shows often start with him encouraging people to "wake up" and then he shifts to lighter topics. He talks about his experiences visiting other cultures, family life, and where he is in life now.

"Screen Diet"

Breuer discusses the importance of taking breaks from screens, just like people fast from food or sugar. He talks about his travels, including peaceful trips to Africa, where he felt free from screens and the chaos they create.

Opening for Metallica

In 2018, Breuer warmed up the crowd for Metallica in Birmingham. He was nervous but excited. Breuer said that drummer Lars Ulrich encouraged him to share stories rather than perform traditional stand-up. This approach helped Breuer connect with the die-hard Metallica fans.

Favorite SNL Hosts

Breuer recalls Tom Hanks as one of the most engaging and impressive hosts he worked with on SNL. He also mentioned Alec Baldwin, John Goodman, and Jim Carrey, who all left lasting impressions with their humor and personality.

Chemistry with Dave Chappelle

Breuer already had a great relationship with Chappelle before filming "Half Baked." They had been friends in the comedy scene for years, and their chemistry was natural, making the film a fun experience for everyone involved.

Thoughts on Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

When asked about Taylor Swift potentially entering the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame before heavy metal legends like Iron Maiden, Breuer laughed it off. He feels that hall of fame recognition doesn't really matter because true fans know the significance of bands like Iron Maiden.