Del Close would have been 78 years old today. Even though he passed away 13 years ago March 4, his influence on comedy and acting will last long after all of us are gone. more ›

You might know him as the "Hug Guy" or the "Hat Guy" or as Frank, everyone's favorite TGS writer on 30 Rock. But Judah Friedlander is first and foremost a stand-up comedian, often performing at clubs several nights of the week even when he's shooting 30 Rock. We're lucky enough to have him in town this weekend performing his World Champion stand-up tour at the Chicago Improv. World Champion of what? Hockey, soccer, martial arts, picking up chicks, being a role model for children... world championships. Chicagoist got to know a little bit more about the world champion of the world; from his influences to what he's excited to do in Chicago to the $25 can of SpaghettiO's he's selling. more ›