> At a Glance
> – Caroline’s comedy club closed in 2022 after 41 years
> – Jay Leno, Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Robin Williams performed early
> – Caroline Hirsch founded club in 1981 after fashion career
> Why it matters: The venue shaped stand-up comedy and celebrity careers
Caroline Hirsch never planned to build a comedy empire. She opened Caroline’s in 1981 after watching Johnny Carson and George Carlin, creating a space that became essential for comedians.
The Club That Made Careers
Before they were famous, Jerry Seinfeld, Adam Sandler, Colin Quinn, Sandra Bernhard, Garry Shandling, Billy Crystal performed at Caroline’s. Fans lined up around the block.
Robin Williams was a regular:
> “Robin was a real friend of the club. Whenever he was in town and needed to do an interview, he’d call and ask if he could do it at the club, or he’d just drop by.”
Jay Leno got his Tonight Show audition while performing at Caroline’s. Billy Crystal was spotted by NBC’s Dick Ebersol at Caroline’s, leading to Saturday Night Live.
Behind the Scenes
Idris Elba worked as a doorman before The Wire. Michael Patrick King started as stand-up, became writer/producer for Caroline’s Comedy Hour, then Sex and the City.
Wild nights:
- Sam Kinison headlining in 1986
- Andy Warhol arriving with entourage for Pee-wee Herman
- Robert Plant stopping by after Meadowlands
Caroline Hirsch recalls:
> “I think it was around 1986, Sam Kinison was headlining the club, and he was good friends with Robin Williams.”
The End of an Era
After 40 years, Hirsch closed Caroline’s in 2022. Her lease was ending, Times Square changing, comedy festival growing. She continues producing shows, working with emerging talent and legends.
Key Takeaways
- Caroline’s comedy club operated 1981-2022
- Jay Leno, Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld performed early
- Robin Williams was regular, Jay Leno got Tonight Show audition
- Caroline Hirsch continues comedy festival, philanthropy
- Venue shaped careers of countless comedians
