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James L. Brooks Reflects on Discovering Andy Kaufman

12/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

James L. Brooks recalled discovering comedian Andy Kaufman after seeing him perform at a comedy club, where Kaufman alternated between his "Foreign Man" and "Vince" personas and was booed off stage.
Brooks then cast Kaufman as Latka Gravas in Taxi, which aired from 1978 to 1983.
Kaufman remained a significant figure in comedy until his untimely death in 1984.
Brooks' latest film, Ella McKay, premiered on December 12, 2025.

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Story summary

James L. Brooks recalled discovering comedian Andy Kaufman after seeing him perform at a comedy club, where Kaufman alternated between his "Foreign Man" and "Vince" personas and was booed off stage.
Brooks then cast Kaufman as Latka Gravas in Taxi, which aired from 1978 to 1983.
Kaufman remained a significant figure in comedy until his untimely death in 1984.
Brooks' latest film, Ella McKay, premiered on December 12, 2025.