Paula Poundstone
An inventive and politically astute comedian, Paula Poundstone adhered to the same sort of observational techniques used by Mort Sahl, George Carlin or Ellen DeGeneres rather than relying on the quick quip or pre-fab jokes. She rose to prominence during the 1980s boom in comedy clubs. Poundstone's wry, improvisatory style and offbeat, off-the-cuff remarks delighted audiences and her popularity allowed her to make the transition from cult figure to TV star.