Drunk History Returns: A Comedy That Got Too Drunk to Remember Its Own History

How to Get Drunk on History: The Return of 'Drunk History'

Picture this: you're sitting in your living room, sipping a margarita, when you stumble upon a show that makes you laugh so hard you almost choke. That's the magic of Drunk History, and after a seven-year hiatus, it's back with a vengeance—well, actually, not really a vengeance, just more of the same delightful absurdity.

I'm always delighted when Comedy Central brings back shows that are both culturally significant and laugh-out-loud funny. And Drunk History, the brainchild of Derek Waters and Jeremy Konner, is one of those rare gems that doesn't just make you laugh but also makes you think about history in a completely different way.

"I'm so excited to be back making Drunk History again! We have a lot of catching up to do," said Waters.

The return is a welcome surprise, especially since it's not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but a fresh injection of creativity. The show's premise remains as charmingly absurd as ever: inebriated storytellers recounting historical events with complete disregard for the truth and plenty of theatrical flair.

Back from the Brink

It's been a long journey since Drunk History first took off on Comedy Central in 2013. The show ran for six seasons, eventually winding down in 2019. The pandemic threw a curveball when production was halted mid-season, leading to the show's temporary retirement.

Now, after seven years, we're seeing new episodes that are both nostalgic and refreshing. The latest three short-form episodes launch on September 15th on Comedy Central's YouTube channel, featuring a stellar cast including Meghan Trainor as Madonna, Steve Agee, Tim Baltz, Seth Green, Colin Hanks, Jack McBrayer, Chris Parnell, Johnny Pemberton, Daryl Sabara, Mae Whitman, and Weird 'Al' Yankovic.

The Drunk History Formula: A Perfect Blend of Chaos and Culture

What makes Drunk History so special is its ability to take the dry bones of history and bring them to life with comedic exaggeration. The show's format is simple but brilliant: historical figures are reenacted by actors, usually with a drink in hand, telling their story in a way that's both inaccurate and utterly entertaining.

The first new episode features Meghan Trainor as Madonna, focusing on the pop icon's legendary performance at the inaugural VMAs. The rest of the episodes will explore the life of Frances Perkins (the unsung architect of FDR's New Deal) and two men's lifelong battle to make the world's largest ball of twine.

These aren't just history lessons; they're a blend of historical facts, comedic license, and sheer theatricality. The show manages to be both educational and hilarious, making it a perfect way to learn about history while having a great time.

A Legacy of Laughter

Throughout its run, Drunk History has featured an impressive lineup of guest stars, including Jack Black, Will Ferrell, Bill Hader, Kristen Wiig, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Bob Odenkirk. The show's longevity is a testament to its unique ability to blend history with humor in a way that appeals to both educators and comedians.

The new episodes promise to carry forward the same spirit that made the show a hit in the first place. With a talented cast and a renewed commitment to comedic storytelling, Drunk History is ready to make history all over again.

A New Era for Comedy Central

The return of Drunk History is also a sign of how far Comedy Central has come since its early days as a channel focused on edgy, alternative comedy. The network has evolved into a powerhouse for both classic and contemporary comedy franchises.

"We are thrilled that 'Drunk History' is back," said Ari Pearce, head of Comedy Central original content. "These new episodes reflect our heritage as both the home of iconic comedy franchises and a premier launchpad for comedic talent. As we continue to expand our reach across platforms, 'Drunk History' is a great example of how we're delivering Comedy Central to fans in new ways."

This statement captures the essence of what makes Comedy Central so important today: it's not just about broadcasting shows; it's about preserving and reviving comedic legacies that have shaped popular culture.

The Future of History on Screen

As we continue to navigate an era where traditional media is constantly evolving, shows like Drunk History remind us of the importance of combining education with entertainment. The show's unique approach to storytelling has made it a cultural touchstone, proving that history doesn't have to be boring.

In a time when audiences are looking for content that is both informative and engaging, Drunk History serves as a perfect example of how comedy can be used to make the world more accessible. It's a refreshing reminder that humor and intellect can coexist beautifully in the same narrative.

The return of Drunk History is not just a celebration of its past; it's a hopeful sign for its future. As we continue to look back at history with new eyes, let's raise a glass to those who make it all so entertaining—and to the next generation of storytellers who will keep the tradition alive.