JOHN FRANKLIN

Born and raised in New Jersey, John Franklin is a comedian who effortlessly combines humor and storytelling to captivate audiences. From a young age, John found his passion for theater and sports, fueled by the unwavering support of his parents. With a background in journalism, he has honed his skills as a content-creating comedian, delighting crowds on stage, in front of the camera, and through his scriptwriting.

John's debut comedy special, "The Specialist," showcases his talent as a masterful storyteller. Drawing from his own life experiences, he weaves engaging narratives that leave audiences in stitches. His upcoming one-man show, "My Dad's Advice," set to debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, promises to be an unforgettable experience centered around his unique relationship with his father. With a blend of endearing and unorthodox moments, John takes his audience on a journey through the intricacies of their bond.

With inspiration drawn from the storytelling prowess of Bruce Springsteen and his own father's gift for spinning tales, John's comedy is relatable and resonant. Read more and discover the challenges and the highs of John’s career journey so far.

Hi John, Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a born and raised New Jersey comedian! I grew up in a huge family. I have enough first cousins on both sides of my family to play a full game of baseball with reserves, so it was a bit of a hassle to stand out. That’s when I started doing theater and playing sports. My parents were always so supportive of anything I wanted to do. It could be anything, and they’d support it. I went to college to study journalism so, seeing as I’m a content-creating comedian, you can tell that went well! In all seriousness, I loved Quinnipiac University and the people that shaped me to who I am today. I love to be on stage, in front of the camera, and writing scripts. I’m a huge Devils, Yankees, Giants, and Red Bulls fan, so when I’m not performing you can catch me at any of those stadiums.

Tell us more about your debut comedy special, The Specialist via TUBI along with your stand-up stint at Edinburgh Festival Fringe this August.

The Specialist is the first special of my career! It is composed of the material that I’ve been writing and performing over the last three years. It has stories from my life, including the reason my nickname is The Specialist, which is how it got its title!

Fringe is going to be awesome! I’m debuting my next special/one man show on a nine-show run. It’s nine performances in nine days at the biggest performing arts festival in the world! I titled it “My Dad’s Advice,” and it is centered around my relationship with my father. We have a great relationship, but some of the ways he’s handled dad life have been… unorthodox. He’s the best dad I can ask for, but he is so unapologetically himself. From learning about the birds and the bees, to my first time being drunk, the show talks about every in-and-out of our relationship.

What inspires your comedy storytelling narratives?

I’m a New Jersey guy, so first and foremost it’s Bruce Springsteen. New Jersey has a deep history of storytelling musicians that always inspired me. Bruce is the best storyteller in the world in my opinion. He can paint the most vivid picture in just three lines of lyrics. Along with Bruce is my dad. He can tell a mean story. That’s why I wanted to pay some respect to him with this next special of all stories.

What’s the most challenging part about what you do?

Honestly, it’s continuing to write and create things. Musicians can play their greatest hits when they get to that point in their career. Comedians always need new material. So, it’s just writing and honing the craft to get better.

How did you rise above these challenges?

Trying to find new ways to observe life and what’s funny about it! It’s hard sometimes when you’re not in the right headspace to create, but you work through it and on the other end is usually your best joke.

What’s the proudest moment of your career so far?

Without a doubt, it’s performing my special in front of a sold-out crowd in my home state. It’s crazy to think that I was at that venue just a year prior to watch a comedian, and now I can sell it out!

What inspires you?

Being different and trying new things. I want to create something that people remember me for. Kobe Bryant once said, “You are responsible for how people remember you.” That sticks with me. I’m 26 and I want more. I want to make an impact on the world of entertainment.

What scares you?

Heights, first and foremost. I’m very afraid of not pushing myself enough. Not using the time and energy I have to become great. I don’t want to run out of time in this awesome life and think I should have done more.

Guilty pleasure?

Percy Pigs and binge watching The Sopranos. If you haven’t had a Percy Pig, they’re a British candy. I promise if you have one, it’ll change your life.

Name your top 5 favorite comedians of all time

Norm Macdonald, John Mulaney, Will Ferrell, John Candy, Bill Murray, Not all standups, but all legends in their own right.

Tell us about a life lesson that you always carry with you.

My grandpa used to say to me, “At the end of the game, the King and the pawn end up in the same box.” Meaning, we all get to the end someday, but make sure you live your life the way you want to live it.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t give up. If you believe you can do it, you will. No one’s success is your failure.

What’s your ultimate goal?

I want to do it all! I want to start doing more improv, I’m writing scripts, and I’m doing standup. I want to produce my first short film this year. I want to become a voice in every aspect of comedy and entertainment.

What are your dream projects?

This question rocks. I want to create a feature film one day, and I’ve even written a pilot script for a television series. I would love to produce both of those that I’ve written. I also want to hone the craft of improv and start growing in that space.

Is there a skill / talent that a lot of people don’t know about you?

I can sing and play guitar! I write my own music and stuff. I’m also a great cook. I can chef up anything, and I love to make homemade bread.