Interview with Actress/Comedian Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is an American comedienne, singer, actress and author. She first gained attention in the late 1970s with her stand-up comedy in which she often bitterly critiques celebrity culture and political figures. Bernhard is number 97 on Comedy Central’s list of the 100 greatest standups of all time.

I recently spoke with Sandra regarding her new one-woman show called I Love Being Me, Don’t You?

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RCM: How did you get into comedy?

SB: I went to LA when I was 18 to become a singer. People said “You’re hysterical! Do stand-up and add the singing in.” Before I knew it, I was doing showcases all over town and getting my chops together.

RCM: What was being on The Richard Pryor Show like for you starting out?

SB: Well, Paul Mooney, who discovered me, was the head writer and producer for Richard and cast all the young talent. So, it was like a party and Richard loved being around the up-and-comers. It was one of the great experiences of my early career.

RCM: Martin Scorsese discovered you in 1983 and cast you in The King of Comedy. Getting to work with so many legends in that film, what was the experience like for you?

SB: Again, when you work with the best, you only get better and better. Talent elevates talent and these people want to see your best.

RCM: What was the Roseanne experience like for you?

SB: Everyone on Roseanne was top-drawer theatre people; great actors who made it a lesson in brilliance whenever I walked on the set. Funny, kind smart and cutting edge.

RCM: Who are your influences as a comedian and an actress?

SB: Carol Channing, Carol Burnett, Mary Tyler Moore, Barbra Streisand, Julie Christie, Catherine Denueve, Tina Turner, Mick Jagger, Cher, Bette Midler, Lily Tomlin, Laura Nyro and the list goes on and on.

RCM: You’ve had many one-woman shows. Which one are you most proud of?

SB: “Without You, I’m Nothing…And I’m Still Here Damn It.” But I love them all in different ways.

RCM: What keeps you going after all these years of being in the business?

SB: The need to tell stories and give love to the crowd.

RCM: Where did you come up with the title and concept of your new show I Love Being Me, Don’t You?

SB: From the same place as all of them. In my life travels, my loves, heartache, madness, parties, walks down the street; like a giant vacuum cleaner sucking up ideas and turning them into entertainment.

RCM: What do you like most about performing in Chicago?

SB: Chicago is one of my favorite american cities; sophisticated, smart people; great food; a real original point of view.

RCM: What’s next for you?

SB: Great roles in film and TV. My own shows, producing, singing, writing. These are all the things I am in the midst of right now!