Sam Kinison

Acting

Sam Kinison

Born December 8, 1953 · Yakima, Washington, U.S.

Died April 10, 1992 · aged 38

Samuel Burl "Sam" Kinison (December 8, 1953 – April 10, 1992) was an American stand-up comedian and actor. He was known for his intense, harsh and politically incorrect humor. A former Pentecostal preacher, he performed stand-up routines that were most often characterized by an intense style, similar to charismatic preachers, and punctuated by his trademark scream.

Known For

Back to SchoolBack to School · 1986
Back to School
6.31986
MovieComedy
Self-made millionaire Thornton Melon decides to get a better education and enrolls at his son Jason's college. While Jason tries to fit in with his fellow students, Thornton struggles to gain his son's respect, giving way to hilarious antics.
Savage DawnSavage Dawn · 1985
Savage Dawn
4.41985
MovieActionThriller
A vicious biker gang takes over a small town in Arizona. A Vietnam War vet passing through town and a few locals with nothing to lose go to war with the gang's ruthless leader.
Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh?Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh? · 1999
Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh?
6.81999
MovieDocumentaryComedy
For fans of comedy, Sam Kinison needs no introduction. His scathing comedy tackled tough topics no other comedian dared to touch. Fed up and disenfranchised with his career as a Pentacostal preacher, Sam left the ministry to try his hand at comedy. Almost immediately, and thanks in part to the foresight of Rodney Dangerfield who showcased Sam on an HBO special, his piercing scream, extreme humor and irreverent take on life attracted attention. Containing rare, early footage of Sam preaching and performing stand up at the world famous Comedy Store, the Award Winning "Why Did We Laugh" tells the story of a comedic genius who touched a deeper chord in people than most entertainers. Sadly, Sam was taken from us far too early, yet leaving us with a lasting and unique legacy.
Sam Kinison: Family Entertainment HourSam Kinison: Family Entertainment Hour · 1991
Sam Kinison: Family Entertainment Hour
5.81991
MovieComedy
Get ready to scream with laughter! Sam Kinison's primal scream will echo down through the comedy hall of fame summing up so much of modernity's horror and stupidity. This concert was taped at the Wiltern Theatre where Sam was joined with the Randy Hansen Band and a salacious slew of sinuous sirens, including his wife Malika. Join Sam Kinison and guests for a concert guaranteed to make you laugh 'til you cry for more - there's something for every member of the family - Sam Kinison style!
Sam Kinison: BannedSam Kinison: Banned · 1990
Sam Kinison: Banned
7.01990
MovieComedyDocumentary
Sam Kinison live at the Felt Forum, 2/14/89. Also has opening act Carl Labove plus Sam's 3 MTV videos.
Rodney Dangerfield: It's Not Easy Bein' MeRodney Dangerfield: It's Not Easy Bein' Me · 1986
Rodney Dangerfield: It's Not Easy Bein' Me
7.91986
MovieComedy
Rodney Dangerfield hosted this HBO special which includes fantastic performances by some of the best new talent of 1986. Comedians include Jeff Altman, Roseanne Barr, Sam Kinison, Bob Nelson, Jerry Seinfeld, Robert Townsend, and, of course, Rodney Dangerfield.
Sam Kinison: Breaking the RulesSam Kinison: Breaking the Rules · 1987
Sam Kinison: Breaking the Rules
7.21987
MovieComedy
This is a great performance. Through yelling and energetic story-telling, he talks about marriage, drugs, being arrested (thanks to his ex-wife), pleasing women, religion, and much, much more.
Sacred Cow Halloween SpecialSacred Cow Halloween Special · 1993
Sacred Cow Halloween Special
9.01993
MovieComedy
Bill Hicks and Kevin Booth take phone calls while visiting HELL for one night. Celebrating ten years of low budget indy productions by Sacred Cow productions for Austin Public Access TV.

Filmography

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Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh?Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh? · 1999
Sam Kinison: Why Did We Laugh?
6.81999
MovieDocumentaryComedy
For fans of comedy, Sam Kinison needs no introduction. His scathing comedy tackled tough topics no other comedian dared to touch. Fed up and disenfranchised with his career as a Pentacostal preacher, Sam left the ministry to try his hand at comedy. Almost immediately, and thanks in part to the foresight of Rodney Dangerfield who showcased Sam on an HBO special, his piercing scream, extreme humor and irreverent take on life attracted attention. Containing rare, early footage of Sam preaching and performing stand up at the world famous Comedy Store, the Award Winning "Why Did We Laugh" tells the story of a comedic genius who touched a deeper chord in people than most entertainers. Sadly, Sam was taken from us far too early, yet leaving us with a lasting and unique legacy.

Writer