This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Comic Jim Norton is the co-host of the wildly popular satellite radio program "The Opie & Anthony Show."
He's not responsible for some of the most controversial bits on the show, such as when Opie and Anthony caused outrage in the Catholic community by airing a couple having sex in a vestibule at New York City's St. Patrick's Cathedral. Yet Norton revels in his "dirty" stand-up comedy and was honored to have once hosted the Adult Video Awards show.
Norton will headline Wiseguys West Valley City Friday and Saturday, Aug. 19 and 20, in one of the hottest-selling comedy shows in recent memory, according to Wiseguys owner Keith Stubbs.
The New York-based, 43-year-old comic answered questions about his perception of Utah, his signature close-cropped hair and, of course, porn stars.
Is preparing to perform in Utah anything like preparing to host the Adult Video Awards show?
Considering my favorite porn star, Belladonna, lived in Utah, this is exactly like preparing for the Adult Video Awards.
How did you end up in rehab at 17?
I ended up in rehab because I got really drunk and accidentally cut my wrists shaving. I was one of those irritating "woe is me" suburban nerds screaming for attention. I got sober at 18 and started stand-up at 21. I would write it was a "blessing in disguise" if I wouldn't hate myself so much for writing it.
What do you say to people who think you have a dirty sense of humor?
I do have a dirty sense of humor. It doesn't bother me at all if people think that. As a matter of fact, I can be pretty filthy — sometimes even I'm disgusted by the things that come out of my mouth. And I'd rather have people prepared for that when they walk into my show. Then again, I do like when people are caught off-guard and their night is ruined.
Do you believe that everything is fair game? And that it's never too soon to joke about tragedies?
Yes. It only seems to be humor and comedians people are offended or outraged by. Actors, authors and musicians can address any subject they want anytime they want, but when a comedian does it, people want us lynched. Was [Gilbert Gottfried's infamous joke about the Japan tsunami] tasteless considering the timing? Sure. But since when have comedians been expected to respect and adhere to all social boundaries and conventions?
How long have you worn your hair short?
Most of my adult life. I did it because I have awful cowlicks. My hair curls like an "M" in the front and my stupid, greasy forehead pokes out. The only options were crew cut or decapitation.
Do you feel pressure to keep joking on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter?
No pressure at all. I make fun of things because that's what I love to do. It's how I've always dealt with depressing or sad things, or good things for that matter. I never feel pressure when I tweet, nor do I feel guilty if someone is upset about it.
Any connections to Utah?
I've seen "The Book of Mormon" twice and love it. Aside from that, absolutely none, aside from hating the Jazz.
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Comedian Jim Norton
When • Tonight and Saturday at 7:30 and 10
Where • Wiseguys West Valley City, 2194 W. 3500 South
Tickets • $20 at wiseguyscomedy.com