Judd Apatow chats to Brigit Grant about how Jewish comedy genius Mel Brooks shaped his life

In this brief conversation, filmmaker Judd Apatow reflects on his earliest memories of Mel Brooks, recalling how the 2000-Year-Old Man albums were part of his household from birth. He describes Brooks as a towering, almost mythic figure in comedy, comparing his presence to that of a superstar performer.

Apatow highlights Brooks' remarkable range as a multi-hyphenate talent, excelling as a performer, writer, director, and producer. He traces Brooks' comedic roots back to the Catskills and Your Show of Shows, noting the strong Jewish influence that ran through his humor.

The discussion closes on a personal note, with Apatow sharing how seeing Brooks succeed as an unconventional figure gave him hope as a self-described weird kid that he too could find his place in comedy.

Key takeaways

• Judd Apatow grew up with Mel Brooks' 2000-Year-Old Man albums in his home from birth.
• Brooks was perceived as the funniest man on the planet, with a star presence akin to Beyoncé in comedy.
• Brooks was a true multi-hyphenate: performer, writer, director, and producer.
• His comedic style was shaped by a Catskills background and his work on Your Show of Shows.
• Jewish humor had a significant influence on Brooks' comedic voice.
• Seeing Brooks succeed inspired Apatow as a young, unconventional kid to believe he could succeed too.

Highlights

• 0:00 — Growing up with the 2000-Year-Old Man albums
• 0:10 — Mel Brooks as the 'Beyoncé of comedy'
• 0:16 — Brooks' incredible range as performer, writer, director, producer
• 0:29 — Catskills roots and Jewish influence in his humor
• 0:39 — How Brooks gave a 'weirdo' kid hope

00:00:00 Early Memories Of Mel Brooks
00:00:10 The Beyoncé Of Comedy
00:00:16 A Multi-Talented Force
00:00:29 Catskills And Jewish Influence
00:00:39 Inspiring A Weird Kid

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