Why on earth would you want to be a comedian?

I have a friend who did it for 10 years. He credited his narcissistic personality disorder. No kidding. At parties, he would assume that everybody was waiting to hear the next funny thing he had to say, and it took him a while to learn that this was boorish behavior. He left because the job required rubbing shoulders with similarly self absorbed personalities, because of the drinking, and because comedy can mostly only be done in a comedy club, while music can be performed in a variety of venues.

I think comics that stay with it are mostly compelled.

I’m not just a comedian I’m a freedom fighter… just ask years of teachers who will never forget me.

Im sure it has something to do with the smile you put on peoples faces!

Because when it’s good, it’s amazing. A-maze-ing. The ability to finesse and ride an audience—like a wave, to have them hanging on your next word, to hear them explode with laughter—you can’t beat that. And ‘hours’ are really subjective—I think doing a gig at night, having some drinks, and sleeping in the next day sounds wonderful.

I dated a comedian for a long time, and have been paid for doing comedy, both on stage and on TV.

I highly suggest watching Louis CK’s amazing series on FX, Louie. It gives you great insight into the comedian’s world.

Despite the problems you mention, I’d rather be a comedian than a politician, for example.

I’m such a good comedian that I have to take pictures for a living.

I’ve never tried, because I’m not witty enough, but I knew someone that was very good at it. He said that he didn’t even really try to be comical; it just came naturally to him, and he liked making people laugh.

The attention and the validation when it comes off well. A million “boos” are worth each and every “you’re really funny” that comes your way.

plus the whole drinks and day sleeping thing that @andrew mentioned

I’m with @Blondesjon.
And you gotta have a thick skin.

I would never want the pressure of being on stage, but I do enjoy making people laugh.

I’ve always wanted to be a comic. Ya know how little kids want to be doctors or firemen? I wanted to be a comic. I’ve watched countless hours of stand up in my life. Why do I want to do it? I’m not sure. Its always looked fun. Comedian friends would be awesome. The scene is cool. Making a living off of working for like 4 hours a week would be… crazy.

But alas, I’m not funny.

I’ve always wanted to be a comedian, yes, but I’m too cowardly to go out there and try it.