The Funniest One in the Room

Kim Howard Johnson's The Funniest One in the Room: The Lives and Legends of Del Close is a definitive, haunting, and deeply affectionate biography of the man who is widely regarded as the 'mad scientist' and 'high priest' of modern improvisational theater. Published in 2008, the book reflect Johnson's deep experience as a veteran of the 'iO' and 'Second City' schools and his tenure as a close friend and collaborator of Close. It positions Close not just as a teacher, but as a revolutionary thinker who transformed improv from a series of 'light games' into a rigorous, 'soul-baring' theatrical discipline.

The work is organized chronologically, move through Close's 'larger-than-life' journey: from his early days in St. Louis and his time with the Compass Players to his tenure at The Second City and the founding of ImprovOlympic (now iO). Johnson captures the 'chaos' and the 'brilliance' of Close's mind: including his experiments with 'The Harold', his belief in 'The Group Mind', and his constant search for the 'cosmic' and the 'true' in the unscripted moment. The book is particularly noted for its focus on 'The Legend': providing a vivid portrait of how Close's eccentricities, his struggles with addiction, and his intense artistic commitment fueled the 'mythology' that still drives the Chicago scene today.

The text is written in a warm, wise, and cinema-esque voice, filled with anecdotal 'insider' stories from the legendary performers who were mentored by Close: including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. He look at the 'dark side' of the history as well: the power struggles, the artistic failures, and the constant tension between pure art and commercial 'success'. The Funniest One in the Room serve as a vital guide for any fan or student who wants to understand the 'source' of their art and the human story behind the 'Harold'. It remains one of the most comprehensive and moving biographies in the entire history of the performing arts.

The Funniest One in the Room has been hailed as one of the most 'honest' and 'moving' biographies ever written about a comedic figure. Reviewers often praise Kim Howard Johnson for his warmth, his wisdom, and for his ability to translate the 'magic' of Close's mind into tangible personal and professional habits. The book's 'war stories' are frequently cited as its greatest strength. It is regarded as an essential 'sanity check' and a source of inspiration for anyone committed to the serious and rigorous art of the unscripted moment.