Oral History of the Prolific The State Comedy Troupe to Be Published in May

The oral history of The State, the legendary comedy troupe that included Ken Marino, David Wain, Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black, Joe Lo Truglio, Thomas Lennon, Robert Ben Garant, Kerri Kenney-Silver, Kevin Allison, Michael Patrick Jann and Todd Holoubek, is slated for release this May.

Titled The Union of the State, the book follows The State and its members from their comedic roots at New York University to their rapid rise to fame on MTV, and on through such post-MTV projects as Wet Hot American Summer, Reno 911 and Stella. The book, which is slated for release in print, Kindle and ebook, will be officially available for purchase on Tuesday, May 3.

The Union of the State is an uncensored exploration of the comedy sketch troupe’s history and legacy, from it’s ‘90s heyday to its members’ enduring influence upon comedy, television and film. And it comes right from those who were there for the acclaimed troupe’s creation, dissolution, reinvention and reunion.

Readers will get an inside look at how 11 twenty-somethings landed an MTV show that combined outlandish characters and scenarios to appeal to the network’s core teen audience. You’ll also learn how former cast members went on to create Wet Hot American Summer, Comedy Central’s cop comedy hit Reno 911!, the cult-favorite comedy series Stella and much more.

In addition, the book will also feature rare photos and illustrations that span the troupe’s 25-year history as well as commentary from stars like Paul Rudd, Chris Meloni, Janeane Garofalo, the head writer for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon A.D. Miles, and Doug Herzog, President of Viacom.