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Second City Works company history timeline

1986

After graduating with a theatre degree (1986) from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, Colbert joined the Second City comedy improv troupe in Chicago.

1987

Andrew Alexander and his recently deceased partner Len Stuart acquired The Second City in 1987.

1989

Gilda Radner passes away of ovarian cancer on May 20th, 1989 at age 42.

In Steve Carell…he joined the improvisational troupe Second City in 1989.

1996

Other film and television work followed, including various roles on the television sitcom The Dana Carvey Show (1996), for which he also wrote.

1997

Colbert worked on several other television projects before joining in 1997 Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, which was hosted by Jon Stewart.

1999

Del Close passes away on March 14th, 1999, after holding a “living wake.”

2003

Helmed by Second City manager Heather Whinna, 2003’s event featured performances by Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan and Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy.

2005

Cancer support organization Gilda’s Club opens in 2005 with the mission of ensuring that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community.

2008

Inspired by the initial fundraising efforts of his 'SCTV' peers, Andrew Alexander officially establishes The Second City Alumni Fund in 2008.

2012

Colbert used the donations received by his Super PAC to purchase mock television advertisements during the 2012 presidential campaign.

2014

As of 2014, Second City has been awarded 37 Jeff Awards in total, including recognition for the work of Bernie Sahlins, Mick Napier, Rachel Dratch, Shelley Long, Jackie Hoffman, David Pasquesi, Nia Vardalos, and Keegan-Michael Key.

2017

However, in 2017 Colbert seemed to hit his stride, and the show’s viewership dramatically grew.

2018

Starting in fall 2018, DePaul’s School of Cinematic Arts offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in comedy filmmaking, the most comprehensive programs of their kind.

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Founded
1986
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Headquarters
Chicago, IL
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