The Roastmaster General: Jeff Ross and His Journey to Broadway
If you’re not familiar with Jeff Ross, he is best known as the “Roastmaster General”—a title he has earned through three decades of mastering the savage art of comedy roasts. This unique comedic sport, introduced by the Friars Club in the 1950s, involves a lineup of comedians hurling no-holds-barred insults at a roastee, designed to elicit both laughter and gasps. Ross has not only been a prominent figure in this arena but also serves as the executive producer of Netflix’s celebrity roasts, where he has made headlines with his sharp wit, including a memorable roast of former NFL quarterback Tom Brady.
The Brady Roast: A Moment in the Spotlight
Ross found himself at the center of media attention during the roast of Tom Brady, particularly for a joke directed at Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who had previously faced legal troubles related to a massage parlor incident. The joke prompted Brady to walk across the stage and whisper to Ross, “Don’t say that s—t again,” a moment that highlighted the thin line comedians often walk between humor and sensitivity. Despite the tension, Brady embraced Ross after the set, showcasing the camaraderie that often exists in the roasting world.
Kevin Hart, who hosted the roast, added his own jab at Ross, joking about the comedian’s career being on the brink of extinction. However, Ross was far from finished. He was preparing to launch his one-man show, "Take A Banana For The Ride," on Broadway, which would run from August 18 to September 28 at the Nederlander Theatre.
A Heartfelt One-Man Show
"Take A Banana For The Ride" is a departure from the biting humor Ross is known for. Instead, it serves as a heartfelt homage to his family, friends, and even his beloved German Shepherd rescues. The show also touches on Ross’ personal battles, including his fight with colon cancer and the loss of close friends like Gilbert Gottfried, Bob Saget, and Norm Macdonald. The title itself is a nod to his grandfather, and the show features original music co-written with fellow comedian Avery Pearson, including a song provocatively titled “Don’t F—k With The Jews.”
In a recent interview, Ross reflected on the origins of his show, revealing that he began writing material long before he became synonymous with roasts. He had initially performed a version of this show in the mid-’90s, but it took a backseat as he gained fame in the roasting circuit. The loss of his friends inspired him to revisit this material, prompting a deeper exploration of grief, resilience, and the experiences that shaped him into the comedian he is today.
The Roots of Comedy
Ross attributes his comedic style to his upbringing in New Jersey, where “ball-busting” was a form of affection. Working in his father’s catering hall exposed him to a diverse cast of characters who would tease him mercilessly, toughening him up for a career in comedy. He recalls how his experiences, including earning a black belt in karate at a young age, contributed to his confidence in delivering sharp, witty remarks.
The journey to Broadway was somewhat serendipitous. Ross jokingly expressed a desire to perform on Broadway, and through a series of fortunate events, he found himself partnered with Marc Cornstein, who helped turn that dream into a reality. The show features musical elements, with a keyboardist and violinist accompanying Ross on stage, paying tribute to the older comics who incorporated music into their acts.
The Evolution of Roasting
Ross’s entry into the roasting world was a happy accident, sparked by a chance encounter at a golf tournament. After making a small joke at the expense of a Friars Club dean, he was invited to participate in a roast, which would eventually become his career. Over the years, he has transformed the roast format, introducing speed-roasting and historical roasts, even taking his humor to unconventional venues like a jail.
While roast humor often treads into politically incorrect territory, Ross believes that the essence of comedy lies in its ability to be funny or not, rather than fitting into a specific ideological box. He has observed a resurgence in mainstream comedy that embraces edginess, partly due to the success of recent roasts.
A Legacy of Laughter
As Ross prepares for his Broadway debut, he reflects on the significance of the Friars Club, which recently faced foreclosure. For him, it represents a loss of a cherished institution that shaped his comedic journey. Yet, he remains focused on the present, eager to ride the wave of emotions and laughter that his show promises to deliver.
With a blend of humor, heart, and a nod to his roots, Jeff Ross continues to redefine what it means to be a comedian in today’s world. His journey from the roast stage to Broadway is not just a testament to his talent but also a celebration of the friendships and experiences that have shaped him along the way.
