Second City: First Family of Comedy (Season 1)

The series traces the evolution of one of the world's most successful comedy troupes from its humble beginnings as a stage production in Chicago to the hit late-night TV show.

  • Poster for Part One

    Part One (Episode 1)

    Air date: 2006-08-25

    Runtime: 43 min

    Overview: Dave Thomas traces how a little theatre stage in Chicago launched several generations of famous comedians and revolutionized the world of comedy. We find out what was behind the name "Second City" and who was behind the drive to create comedy that was smart, political, edgy and -- most of all -- improvised.

  • Poster for Part Two

    Part Two (Episode 2)

    Air date: 2006-09-01

    Runtime: 43 min

    Overview: Scott Thompson charts the inner workings of SCTV, the television incarnation of Second City known for insane movie parodies and wacky characters that became a hit across North America.

  • Poster for Part Three

    Part Three (Episode 3)

    Air date: 2006-09-08

    Runtime: 43 min

    Overview: Joe Flaherty explores how Second City revolutionized the world of comedy by pioneering improvisation. Featuring a cast of comedy greats who got their start with Second City, honing their comedic skills by learning to improvise - including Tina Fey, Alan Arkin, Mike Myers, Martin Short, Patrick McKenna, and Colin Mochrie.

Second City: First Family of Comedy - Movie poster from The Movie Database (TMDB)