ROSEANNE was one of many sitcoms I watched growing up, so the idea of roasting her seemed like a good one. She certainly has had a crazy/interesting life. Sadly, despite a mostly amazing dais, this roast didn't quite live up to what it could have been. Like the Donald Trump roast, they let her off easy. I mean, where's Lisa Lampanelli when you need her? Is she too big for these roasts now? Still, I was pleased with the talented people they picked. Anthony Jeselnik and Amy Schumer were my favorites out of the newer crop of comedians, while workhorse Jeff Ross was good as usual. Non-comedians Ellen Barkin and a hilariously self-deprecating Carrie Fisher also acquitted themselves nicely. Gilbert Gottfried? I didn't like that he was the last roaster to go before Roseanne herself took to the mic. I also only laughed at his material by sheer force of will? It was like Stockholm Syndrome, but with jokes. Yelling obscenities is more annoying than funny, in my opinion. Even though this is a comedy special, I won't spoil anything, but there was a touching moment where you could feel the love. And, as a comedian, Roseanne gave as good as she got, and better than Bob Saget, I might add. Still, despite not quite living up to its comedic potential, the roast of Roseanne Barr is certainly one of the better ones.
Review of Comedy Central Roast of Roseanne
