LA Weekly

Like many people before her, Kathleen Madigan went to Catholic school. Apparently that can really fuck people up — or turn them into brilliantly funny standup comedians.


Does Catholic school make you look at things differently?

Yes, because they spend so much time giving facts about invisible and improbable things and people, it tends to make a person’s brain hurt more than average.


When did you first know you were funny?

I’m still not 100 percent sure. I’m 98 percent sure, but that could change by the time I’m finished answering these questions.


Your sister’s name is Kate, a nickname for Kathleen. Are all your siblings named Kathleen?

My father will say, “It’s not a nickname.” They are, according to him, very different in Gaelic, which would be wonderful if we were Druids living in Ireland in the 1200s, but we’re now in charge of answering this question, which comes up often. No, the other five have different names. They are Kathy, Caitlin... no, I’m kidding...


What’s the comedy trend for 2007?

Hopefully in favor of 5-foot-1-inch redheaded women. That would mean me and Kathy Griffin would rule the comedy world. Although, she may be taller.


What kind of humor offends you?

Alternative comedy. The alternative to comedy is tragedy... and tragedy is never funny right away. Maybe 20 years later, but who has that kind of time? It’s BORRRRING and self-indulgent to the point of making my brain explode and my lazy eye focus.


Do you have groupies?

Yes, and I have 6,545 fake fun friends on MySpace.


They say comedy comes from pain — is this the case with you?

Um, no. Boredom. I’d always rather laugh than actually deal with something.


If you could never leave one particular block in L.A., where would it be?

The airport. Terminal 4. It’s lovely, and I could always leave.


Who did you take to the prom?

No one. I worked at a restaurant. Don’t be sad. I always preferred the money.


Where do you want to be in five years?

What, are you my manager, my accountant? I can’t ever answer this question. It’s much too serious. I didn’t think I’d be here. Maybe that’s why I don’t have my own show yet... as it said on my sixth-grade report card, “Kathleen has a tendency to not focus and delay work.”


You’ve written for US Weekly’s Fashion Police. What do you wear for that?

My pajamas. They e-mail the photos. It’s actually one of those jobs advertised where you can work in your pajamas.


Kathleen Madigan appears at the Comedy & Magic Store, 1018 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach; Thurs., Jan. 18, 8 p.m., $18; Fri., Jan. 19, 8 p.m., $20; Sat., Jan. 20, 7 & 9:15 p.m., $20. (310) 372-1193.