In fact, I don't watch a lot of contemporary comedy for fear of being influenced by it.

It seems like a contradiction, but the shy person who is a performer actually does make sense, because in a way, when you're young and shy, making people laugh is a good way to make friends. It's an instant connection.

I have never sold my story, done Hello! magazine, any of that stuff. I'm not guilty of exploiting my private life for cash and then saying, 'Oh, I don't want to talk about my private life.' I've never crossed that line.

I think having an outsider's viewpoint is interesting and good, especially for a comedian.

I've never been disappointed by politicians. I've never invested that much in them in the first place.

And like the old stereotype, I overcame my shyness by making my friends laugh.

Well, sanity, I suppose, is getting people to see the world your way.