Ingrained into popular American culture, the quirky and corny comedy "Rowan & Martin's Laugh In" still influences comedy show writing and production. This critical analysis includes information on lookalike shows that emerged after its success.

Rowan and Martins Laugh-In was one of the quirkiest and most unusual programs on television, defying definition as simply comedy, variety, or burlesque. The show had audiences laughing for six seasons and continues to make appearances in revivals, reunions, and salutes. Even with corny and now dated humor, the shows signature lines and gags are ingrained in popular American culture. This critical history of Laugh-In is arranged chronologically and includes background details on the shows creators and the events leading up to Laugh-Ins creation. In addition to an analysis of the original six seasons, the text includes information on lookalike shows that emerged after Laugh-Ins success, and on the various resurgences of the show that continued up into the nineties. An appendix contains a complete program history with principal production credits and episode guides.