It was such an enormous hit that it inevitably led to a series. Its lightning-fast pace took full advantage of the technical capabilities of television and video tape. The regular cast was large and the turnover high, and of the 40 regulars who appeared in the series only four were in it from beginning to end, the two hosts, announcer Gary Owens, and Ruth Buzzi. The essence of Laugh-In was shtick, a comic routine or trademark repeated over and over until it was closely associated with a performer.
People love it, come to expect it, and talk about it the next morning after the show.
The pace never let up. It didn't even end at the closing credits, as jokes kept flying and, finally, one pair of hands was heard clapping until a station break forcibly took over. Inc. These links were last tested August 2001.