Six-time Grammy-nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan will be at Memorial Coliseum on Sept. 9 with his Barely Alive Tour.

Where you know him

You may know Gaffigan from his numerous comedy specials or maybe from his acting in everything from animation (Rick & Morty, Bob’s Burgers), comedies (Troop Zero, Flight of the Conchords, That ’70s Show), and dramas (Chappaquiddick, Tesla). He also starred in his own show, The Jim Gaffigan Show.

On top of being a comedian and actor, he also is a writer, author, and producer. 

The comedian got his start in 1999 after a performance on The Late Show with David Letterman that kicked his career into action. 

Gaffigan was born in Elgin, Illinois, and ended up being raised in Chesterton, Indiana, with his five siblings. 

Career path

Prior to becoming a comedian, Gaffigan was pursuing a degree in financing, which ended up leading him into an advertising job. 

Comedy is something he had talked about loving, far before he began to participate in it. After grinding for years and years, he found his talent in relatable comedy to family, laziness, and satire — really catching on with his bit about Hot Pockets.

With 10 comedy specials and a countless number of shows under his belt, Gaffigan has kept busy over the last 15 years. 

A running theme in his specials is about being so pale. His latest comedy special on Amazon Prime is titled Dark Pale. 

To quote one of their promotional videos for it, “You’re stuck in a New York City apartment with five kids for months, and everyone is still feeling the effects. So you decide to write another special. 

“Your comedy has always helped you and your audience fight light in the darkness. But, you know what? Sometimes a little nihilism can be healthy. It’s your 10th special and high time for your audience to see a little different side of you. But don’t worry, it might be dark but you’re still the same pale Jim Gaffigan.” 

While you may have heard many of his jokes, the tour promises to have “all new material.”