Jamie Masada, owner of the Laugh Factory chain of comedy clubs, once stated that, “80 percent of comedians come from a place of tragedy.” He acknowledged the 80 percent figure was likely an exaggeration and was based on anecdotal, rather than scientific evidence. Nevertheless, Masada certainly has a unique perspective on the subject. He founded the original Laugh Factory in 1979, and his business has grown into a world-famous comedy brand. He’s worked with several comedians over the years. The Laugh Factory offers a therapy program for its comics, because many of them struggle with emotional problems and use comedy as a means of gaining validation and love.

Photo source: Laugh Factory