George Carlin

Comedian. A provocative and influential standup performer, he is best known for his “Seven Dirty Words” routine which led to the 1978 United States Supreme Court case “F.C.C. v. Pacifica Foundation” that established the American government’s right to regulate profanity on the public airwaves. The decision also propelled his career forward. In general, his humor included political and black humor and he often focused on language, psychology, and religion along with taboo subjects. Born in New York City, his national career began on the Ed Sullivan Show in the 1960s followed by appearances on the “Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson. A recipient of many awards, his first Grammy was awarded in 1973 for “AM & FM” and the last one was in 2002. He created over 20 comedy albums, 14 HBO specials, appeared in numerous TV and movie roles, and authored three best-selling books. In 2007 he celebrated his 50th year in show business, and had completed his last HBO special in March 2008, “It’s Bad for Ya.”