Sophie Zucker
Published: Tuesday 25th July 2023
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week we welcome a US talent who'll soon be at the Edinburgh Fringe, with a show that is possibly not fun for the whole family, particularly hers.
"Sophie Sucks Face is a one-woman musical about love, death and incest," Zucker explains.
"It's R-rated and based on my family which, if my parents were unfamiliar with my work, might be uncomfortable to watch. But luckily I've worn them down by exposing them to raunchy Brooklyn comedy for the past seven years, so they didn't even bat an eye when I debuted my thong jumpsuit in the finale. And they're overbearing Jewish parents so ultimately they are proud of everything I do - shows about fucking my cousin, included."
When not on stage Zucker is a writer for one of the most prestigious shows on US television - or she would be, if the whole industry weren't at loggerheads. Is there any hope that will be sorted by the time she gets back?
"God, I hope the strike is over. I miss writing for The Daily Show! I miss my friends! I hope the writers (and now actors) get what they're fighting for, but the studios are kind of being dicks about the whole thing, so I'm not hopeful it will be sorted when I'm back from the Fringe. I'm prepared for it to last a while - more time for me to tour my show!"
Positive thinking. Sophie Zucker, your Random 8 await:
What was your career dream, as a kid?
The formative women in my life were Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan, so I wanted to be a popstar with a divisive reputation.
Your most memorable injury?
I had an anal fissure. They're common in babies, the elderly and gay men - none of which I am.
Which town/city should be abolished?
I'll say Ellsworth, Maine because I have to drive through it to get from the airport to my boyfriend's parents' house and it adds an hour. No shade to the people who live there, I'm sure they're very nice.
What's the most regrettable thing you've ever bought?
I paid for an $8 cartilage piercing when I was in high school and it got really infected. But it was cheap!
Ever met a particularly great or awful famous person?
Pitbull - he was friendly and smelled like mint. I've met some awful ones too, but you'll have to DM me about them.
Is there a book/movie/album that changed your life?
Waxahatchee's St. Cloud got me through the pandemic. A beautifully written album from start to finish.
What should be your nation's next national anthem?
Keke Palmer, Bottoms Up - it's all about moving your hips and doing your thang and putting your butt in the air which, in a way, is what you do for the national anthem (standing).
Which historical figure should get more attention?
Dick Tuck. He was a Democratic National Committee consultant and strategist and, of course, his name was Dick Tuck.
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