Robert Francis “Bobcat” Goldthwait is a comedian best known for his roles in campy ‘80s classics such as “Police Academy,” his antics on the late night talk show circuit in the ‘90s and his bizarre stand-up style featuring a warbling voice and loud, unpredictable mannerisms.
This distinct style has made him one of the most recognizable comedians of all time and a legend in his own right. Last week Bobcat put on a 3-day show at the Arlington Drafthouse, a venue known for putting on an array of hilarious comedians.
Bobcat’s post-millennial career has been more focused on directing films such as “World’s Greatest Dad” and “Sleeping Dogs Lie,” all of which have been well-received by critics. In an interview with The Eagle, Goldthwait reflected on his career.
“I always loved George Carlin and Andy Kaufman, but I think a lot of my ideas about comedy came from my dad,” Goldthwait said about his comedic influences. “He used to do things like take a mayonnaise jar and put it in the middle of the floor, then get on top of a counter and threaten to dive into it. Or pretend like he was going to drive a motorcycle into the above ground pool. He was sort of a beer-fueled, terrorist daredevil.”
Goldthwait had a bit of experience with the late night talk show circuit in the ‘90s, appearing as a guest on shows such as “The Ben Stiller Show” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.”
“I directed ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ for a few years, so I am of course biased,” Goldthwait said. “Taking Jimmy out of the equation, I have a newfound love for Andy Cohen on Bravo. I love his late night show hard.”
Despite his “unconventional” on-stage personality and reputation, Goldthwait is confident his audience takes him more seriously today. “I think the world recognizes me as an auteur now! Even if they act surprised that I’m not too ‘simple’ to read a menu.”
Goldthwait has had a long, illustrious career as both a stand-up comedian and as a movie director. “I love making my own movies,” Goldthwait said. “I’m about to start a new one, and I will freely admit that I prefer it to stand-up. I mean, it’s great to travel around and pay the bills, but getting to write a movie and con my friends into acting in it is the best.”
thescene@theeagleonline.com
