Stand-up comedy is a monologue. Until it isn't. A "Heckler" is an audience member who interrupts the show, usually by shouting insults or unsolicited advice.
Why People Heckle
Most hecklers are drunk. Some think they are helping ("I'm part of the show!"). Others are genuinely angry at the comedian's material.
The Comedian's Response
Handling a heckler is a martial art. If the comedian ignores them, the comedian looks weak. If the comedian gets too angry, the room turns awkward. The goal is to destroy the heckler verbally while keeping the rest of the audience on your side.
- Heckler: "You suck!"
- Comedian: "I suck? You paid $25 to watch me. Who's the real loser here?"
Crowd Work
"Crowd Work" is different. This is when the comedian invites interaction. "What do you do for a living? A banker? Oh, I bet you're fun at parties." Comedians like Todd Barry or Andrew Schulz specialize in this. They improvise entire sets based on chatting with the front row. It proves that the comedian is quick-witted and present, not just reciting a script.
The Viral Heckler
In the YouTube era, "Comedian DESTROYS Heckler" videos are a genre of their own. Paradoxically, comedians now love hecklers because a good takedown clip can get millions of views and launch a career.