JoAnne Worley has a knack for making people laugh, and it all started with a clever one-liner in a two-room schoolhouse in Indiana. “I remember this vividly,” the Indiana-born comedienne recalls with a chuckle. “One of my classmates was about to get in trouble, and the teacher said, ‘Don’t get smart with me.’ Without missing a beat, I raised my hand and said, ‘Isn’t that why we come to school? To get smart?’” The teacher couldn’t help but laugh—and even forgot to punish the boy. It was a moment that set JoAnne on the path to becoming one of the most beloved comedians in show business.
From that early spark of humor, JoAnne’s career has flourished into an impressive journey spanning television, Broadway, and film. Her breakout role on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In cemented her place as a comedy icon, and her raucous laugh became instantly recognizable. But JoAnne didn’t stop there. She went on to appear on game shows like Hollywood Squares, lent her voice to Disney’s animated classic Beauty and the Beast, and continues to entertain audiences with her one-woman show, Keep Laughin'. At 87 years young, JoAnne remains as vibrant and funny as ever, sharing her home with her beloved rescue dog, Cupid. “He’s the best companion,” she says with a smile. “Cupid truly is a good boy.”
Comedy Runs in the Family—or Does It?
Was comedy always in your blood, JoAnne?
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“You know, I didn’t grow up thinking, ‘I want to be a comedian.’ My family had a lot of reverends, and when you think about it, there’s a funny parallel between being a preacher and an entertainer. Both are about connecting with people, making them feel something. I learned early how to make people laugh, even if I didn’t fully understand what show business was all about back then.”
Supportive Roots
Did your family support your dreams, or did they have doubts?
“My family was supportive in their own way. I worked at a truck stop during high school weekends and saved up enough money to pursue my passion. When I saw an ad for an apprentice in summer stock theater in New York, I jumped at the chance. My dad was puzzled. He asked, ‘You mean you’re going to work for them and pay them?’ But I had a strong work ethic, thanks to my Virgo nature. I took the leap, earned a scholarship, and returned the next summer. It was the start of something incredible.”
Defining Her Comic Style
How would you describe your comic style?
“Loud! That’s the first word that comes to mind. Comedy is all about trusting the moment, especially in stand-up. You have to be prepared, but you also have to roll with the punches. When I started, there weren’t many female comics to look up to, so I began by singing funny songs in nightclubs. I’d put a comedic twist on classic tunes. Before moving to New York, I was lucky enough to attend a Jerry Lewis comedy workshop at Paramount Studios. It was an eye-opener and a game-changer.”
The Influence of Jerry Lewis
Was Jerry Lewis a significant mentor in your career?
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“Absolutely! Being chosen for Jerry’s comedy workshop was a huge honor. He taught me so much, not just about comedy but about confidence. One piece of advice he gave me has stuck with me: ‘If there’s an audience, go perform. The more you perform, the more material you’ll have, the more experience you’ll gain. The more people see you, the more opportunities will come your way.’ It’s advice I’ve lived by ever since.”
Laugh-In: The Early Days
What was it like working on Laugh-In back in the day?
“Oh, it was nonstop! We were always on the go—shooting scenes, changing costumes, doing hair and makeup, rehearsing dance moves. There wasn’t a dull moment. We worked late into the night, but it was all worth it. It was such a collaborative environment. We helped each other out, cheered each other on, and shared so many unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments.”
Do you have a favorite Laugh-In memory to share?
“One time, we had Colonel Sanders on the show, and we did a little skit together. As we walked off the set, he put his arm around me and, let’s just say, got a little too handsy. The live audience laughed, and because I’m loud, everyone could hear my response. I said, ‘Oh, Colonel Sanders, I thought you were a leg man!’ Classic JoAnne!”
Female Comedians Today
How do you think the industry has changed for women in comedy?
“There’s definitely more freedom for women now. Cable TV and stand-up clubs have opened up new avenues, allowing comedians to explore edgier material. Back in my day, we were more focused on clean comedy, knowing that anything we performed had to eventually translate to television. Nowadays, the rhythm of comedy is different, and the topics are bolder. But I still love watching shows like Saturday Night Live. Did you know Lorne Michaels was a writer on Laugh-In?”
Proudest Moments
What are you most proud of in your career?
“One of my proudest moments came when I sang with the United States Air Force Band at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. My brother, who served in the Navy, was there. We even visited the Vietnam War Memorial together, and it was deeply meaningful because he knew many of the names on that wall. It was a powerful experience.”
JoAnne also addressed the issue of impersonators on social media. “I don’t appreciate someone profiting off my name or likeness. If fans see a fake page with an unflattering picture, it’s probably not me! Please report it to help stop these scammers.”
Actors and Others for Animals
Tell us about your involvement with Actors and Others for Animals.
“Our mission is simple: spay and neuter. It’s the best way to combat pet overpopulation and ensure every animal finds a loving home. We also assist with medical bills for pets, which can be costly. It’s a cause close to my heart, and I’m proud to support it.”
