This week on the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast, host Ira Sternberg spoke with the hilarious and multi-award winning comedian Tommy Savitt! Savitt is the newest resident comedian at The Laugh Factory, dazzling audiences with his stand-up routine Monday through Sunday through September 4th.
From Brooklyn to Boot Camp: A Comedian's Unexpected Journey
Born in Livingston, New Jersey to Romanian immigrant parents, Tommy's path to comedy wasn't exactly linear. He graduated from Canarsie High School and Brooklyn College with a Bachelor's in psychology, followed by enrollment at Brooklyn Law School. However, a unique detour came in the form of Marine Corps boot camp in Parris Island. Tommy aimed to become a Judge Advocate General (JAG), but destiny had other plans.
"The administrators wanted to consolidate Tommy's split-summer program and so Tommy left the training because he did not want to interrupt his law school studies," the podcast explains. Interestingly, it was during this time that Tommy's drill instructor offered some sage advice: "Don't be a lawyer, be a comedian!" This unexpected nudge planted the seed for what would become a successful career in stand-up.
Following a Dream: From Law School to Laughter
Despite his mother's hopes of him becoming a lawyer, Tommy completed his Juris Doctor degree in 1997 and became licensed to practice in New York and Connecticut. However, the legal world wasn't for him. He took down his license, packed his bags, and chased his true passion: stand-up comedy. Tommy wisely kept his law license, just in case!
A Comedic Renaissance: The Rise of the Tommy Lama
With over 15 years of experience under his belt, Savitt's comedic journey began in his hometown, New York City. He even honed his acting chops by starring in Shakespeare productions! After developing his signature "Hey Tommy" character, he landed gigs on popular radio shows like Bob & Tom and Blue Collar Radio, even performing for troops stationed around the world.
However, his "Hey Tommy" days were numbered. He craved a fresh comedic persona, and thus, the Tommy Lama was born. This new stage presence has been a smash hit both domestically and internationally, leading to a coveted residency at the legendary Las Vegas Laugh Factory. Along the way, he's racked up impressive accolades, winning the prestigious Seattle Comedy Competition, Best Comedian at the Boston Comedy Festival, Ventura Comedy Festival, and the LA Comedy Awards.
Looking to catch Tommy Savitt's side-splitting stand-up routine? Visit The Laugh Factory at the Tropicana Las Vegas for shows happening now through September 4th! For more information about the Laugh Factory, visit link to The Laugh Factory at Tropicana website.
To learn more about Tommy Savitt, including his work on Bob Tom Show Si TV, and the hilarious Tommy Savitt YouTube channel, head over to his official website. A hilarious sketch of his, Tommy Savitt Who Wants Me Now, is one of his most famous!
As a multi-award-winning comedian, he’s become one of the top requested acts on satellite radio. You may have heard him on shows like "James and Sunda" or seen him in funny Comcast commercials for Adidas. His appearances on “The Bob & Tom Show Si TV” and contributions like National Lampoon Man Up Stand Up have solidified his reputation as a talented performer.
Conclusion: laughter has gravity
Ira Sternberg's interview with Tommy Savitt proves that sometimes, the greatest laughs come from taking unexpected paths. Tommy's journey from law school to stand-up comedy is an inspiring story of following your dreams, no matter where they may lead.
If you’re in Las Vegas and looking for a good laugh, be sure to check out Tommy Savitt at The Laugh Factory! Don't miss his sidesplitting show!