Matt LaBorde recently won the University of South Carolina’s student comedy competition as a junior. After telling the crowd early on that his “ex used to call him cheesecake because he went straight to her thighs,” our ears perked up to hear other enlightening quips and musings. We caught up with Matt after the show to learn a little bit more about this up and coming comedian from Knoxville, TN.
Have you been doing comedy since you got to USC? Along with Toast, what other things do you find yourself involved with?
Yes! My freshman year I met Joey Thompson, and he introduced me to video sketch comedy, and I worked with him in Dinobrite Productions for a few semesters. Thanks to Justin Thompson I’ve had the opportunity to perform stand-up at Bey’s in 5 points the 3rd Sunday of every month and he just recently moved our venue to New Brooklyn Tavern. That’s been a pleasure. I also enjoy acting in student films. It’s a totally different experience than what I’m used to which is nice.
Which comedians inspire you? Who would you most like to open for?
I look to Jim Gaffigan and Demitiri Martin as examples of comedy without vulgarity. They can make anything funny. But if I could open for anyone, it would be Robin Williams. He was the first real stand-up comedian I listened to and I was enthralled by the energy and bravery he brought to his performances (he’s not afraid to tear apart sensitive issues). He’s the reason I started doing comedy.
What was your favorite act at the Student Comedy competition?
Pete Lee, by far. His stage presence is casual but he never lost control of the audience. I loved how he summarized each of our acts with little quips. And his conversation with Lane Smith was hilarious!
What about the rumors that you slept with the Verizon network to ensure the texts would go your way?
I tried to get a hold of Verizon, but they wouldn’t return my calls.
Marry, Fuck, Kill: Cocky, Patricia Pastides, Nikki Haley
I’d kill Nikki Haley after making sweet love to her on our honeymoon.
Antique Roadshow or Pawn Stars?
American Pickers
Whats the best part about showering with 11 year old girls?
My attorney advised me against any responding to this question.
Where can we see you perform next?
There’s a Toast Improv Show May 6th if you’re still in town after finals are over. We’ll be performing improve AND sketch! So get excited.
Amuse us with a joke?
Dear reader: Stare at this page for 20 more seconds then begin laughing uncontrollably. Close and throw away your copy of the paper (if you’re reading online turn off the computer). Then cackle louder and leave with no explanation. You’re friends and/or bystanders will dig your paper out of the trash (or sift through your web history) to see why you were laughing You’re now more mysterious. Congratulations!