MADtv 20th Anniversary Reunion

MADtv 20th Anniversary Reunion, an HBO event television special, premiered on October 19, 2016. The 90-minute comedy program celebrated the 20th anniversary of the sketch show, MADtv. This reunion brought together former cast members, hosts, and special guests for a nostalgic tribute to the long-running series. The special began with a montage summarizing MADtv's history, featuring clips showcasing its diverse cast, impressive guest stars, and hilarious sketches that poked fun at various aspects of pop culture. This opening segment set the stage for a star-studded night of remembrance and appreciation for the influential show. Will Sasso, a key member of the original cast, welcomed the audience to the event. He was soon joined by Nicole Sullivan, a MADtv alum who would go on to become a prominent figure in American comedy, serving as an executive producer, voice actress, and actress. Throughout the special, Sullivan shared personal anecdotes about her time on MADtv, giving a glimpse into the inner workings of the group and the memories they formed. One of the unique aspects of MADtv Reunion was its attempt to reunite as many original cast members as possible. The result was an impressive lineup that included Will Sasso, Nicole Sullivan, Phil LaMarr, Mary Scheer, Bobby Moynihan, Debra Wilson, Aries Spears, Crista Flanagan, Erica Ash, and Jordan Peele, among others. As the cast members reminisced and performed sketches, they frequently acknowledged their former castmates and reminisced about good times and camaraderie. The event featured a mix of original sketches, reunions, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the show's 14-season run. The special honored MADtv's diverse range of comedy styles, which spanned everything from absurd parodies to biting satire and physical comedy. One particular highlight was the reunion of the long-running "Bald Eagle" segment, a series of sketches that saw Frank Caliendo, Bobby Moynihan, and Will Sasso playing a trio of bumbling bald eagles. Throughout the program, various guest stars made appearances to pay tribute to MADtv. Among those who participated were comedian and actor, Wanda Sykes, who also made a few appearances during the program, along with fellow cast member Bobby Moynihan of Saturday Night Live, where he also became one of the original cast members. Other cast members from Saturday Night Live also participated and made their appearances throughout the program. MADtv Reunion ended with a heartfelt tribute to the show's late founders, Keenen Ivory Wayans and Debra McFarland, whose innovative approach to sketch comedy paved the way for MADtv's unique brand of humor. The 90-minute special wrapped up with a final sketch that incorporated many of the original cast members and a montage of iconic MADtv moments. By embracing its rich history, the show's talented past cast members, and its enduring influence on the world of comedy, MADtv Reunion became an affectionate tribute to one of the most beloved and iconic sketch comedies of all time. As the event came to a close, fans and viewers alike celebrated the long-running and storied history of MADtv. Its influence can still be seen in various forms of media today, cementing its place as a true pioneer of comedy in the television landscape.