PBS's Make 'em Laugh to do just that in January

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before. A priest, a rabbi, and a six-hour PBS documentary on the history of American comedy walk into a bar. Well, there’s no punchline, but it’s a damn good lead in to a news piece, right? Anyone? Be sure to tip your waitress…

Anywho, the good people at Rhino are preparing to release Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America, a three DVD set chronicling the storied history of comedians and comedy in the US of A. Set for release on Jan. 13 with a PBS premiere the following night, the documentary covers everything from vintage slapstick to Bart and Lisa of The Simpsons.

Hosted by Billy Crystal and narrated by Amy Sedaris, the comedy doc features interviews and performances from current stars (Jon Stewart, Jud Apatow), old favorites (Richard Pryor, Woody Allen) and comedy’s godfathers (Charlie Chaplin, Jack Bennie). We’re a little peeved that Sarah Midgely and Gertie Carlisle didn’t make the cut, but alas, no one shows any love for vaudeville ever since the high-falutin’ talkies with their movin’ pictures ran the show outta town. The DVD set also includes super nerdy DVD extras, including interviews with Carol Burnett, Cheech Marin, and James L. Brooks of Simpsons fame. And best of all, no Carlos Mencia. Everybody wins.