Laugh Factory Legacy

Header Legacy

Founded in 1979, the Laugh Factory champions free expression, equality, and mental health, while supporting communities. Recognized by the ACLU, NAACP, and USO, the Laugh Factory combines a commitment to comedy with impactful social contributions.

Public Service

Jamie Masade was one of the dignitaries invited to the White House by First Laday Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden for a special Nowruz observation, March 23, and He took pictures with NASA pictures with Nasa
Jamie Masade was one of the dignitaries invited to the White House by First Laday Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden for a special Nowruz observation, March 23
2022 Bill Rosendahl Public Services Award, Jamie Masada

Comedians pay tribute to Laugh Factory founder Jamie Masada for his humanitarian work at the 64th Annual LA Press Club Journalism Awards – March 18, 2023, PR Newswire.

First Amendment

a framed certificate awarded to Jamie Masada by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California. The certificate honors Masada for "Freedom of Information"
Jamie Masada speaking at a podium at an event organized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California.

We pride ourselves on protecting our comedians’ right to free speech and expressing themselves creatively (and humorously). We believe that our stage is their sanctuary. Laugh Factory was recognized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) for their contributions in preserving individual rights and liberties over the past four decades, receiving the organization’s Freedom of Speech Award.

Laugh Factory founder Jamie Masada calls on comedians to support Dave Chappelle

Laugh Factory founder Jamie Masada calls on comedians to support Dave Chappelle – Oct. 20, 2021, Los Angeles Times.

Hollywood Laugh Factory changes sign in support of Chris Rock after Will Smith slap at the Oscars, Hollywood’s Laugh Factory changes marquee in support of Chris Rock following his slapping by Will Smith at the 94th Academy Awards. (KTLA)

Hollywood Laugh Factory changes sign in support of Chris Rock after Will Smith slap at the Oscars – Mar. 29, 2022, KTLA.

Laugh Factory comedy club owner says the stage is a 'sanctuary' and Chappelle's first amendment rights should be protected Jamie Masada told Fox News Digital he hopes the backlash from Dave Chappelle's incident didn't deter future comics from performing as it's "important" for comedians to "express themselves."

Laugh Factory comedy club owner says the stage is a 'sanctuary' and Chappelle's first amendment rights should be protected - July 21, 2022, Fox News.

Comedy Camp

Awards given to Jamie Masada highlight his community contributions, especially through the Laugh Factory Comedy Camp. Recognitions include multiple Comedy Camp awards from the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, a Rodney Respect Award from Los Angeles City College, and a unique comedy figurine trophy, honoring his dedication to supporting children and the community through comedy.

For decades, the Laugh Factory has hosted an annual Kids Comedy Camp that teaches and encourages kids from underprivileged families how to tell jokes and make us all laugh. This program provides children much needed joy, confidence, and inspiration as they learn from comedy legends and have the opportunity to take the world-famous stage at the Laugh Factory’s Hollywood location. In 2019, owner Jamie Masada was honored with an award from the LA City College Foundation for his continued service to youth via the Laugh Factory’s comedy camp.

Tiffany Haddish and Jamie Masada in front of the iconic Laugh Factory, Tiffany Haddish and the Man Behind the Free Comedy Camp that Saved Her Life

Tiffany Haddish and the Man Behind the Free Comedy Camp that Saved Her Life - Nov 23, 2020, Los Angeles Magazine.

Tiffany Haddish performing on stage at the Laugh Factory, Tiffany Haddish helps turn darkness into laughter at the Laugh Factory’s Comedy Camp

Tiffany Haddish helps turn darkness into laughter at the Laugh Factory’s Comedy Camp - Aug. 17, 2018, Los Angeles Times.

People lining up outside the Laugh Factory for a free Christmas dinner, The Laugh Factory Gives Back With Meals and Programs

The Laugh Factory Gives Back With Meals and Programs - Oct 23, 2019, Variety

Racial Equality

A collection of recognitions for Jamie Masada’s contributions to comedy and social justice. The Laffapalooza! URBEE Youth in Comedy Award (2000) honors his support for youth in comedy. A Freedom Weekend Award highlights his commitment to civil rights. A humorous Variety cover tribute from Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney celebrates Masada’s dedication to talent. A Hollywood mural created by Laugh Factory, dedicated to social justice figures, reflects Masada’s impact in promoting awareness on social issues.

The fight for racial equality extends throughout all corners of our society, and comedy is no exception. Since opening the Laugh Factory in 1979, owner and founder Jamie Masada has provided a stage to amplify the voices of comedians belonging to all races and backgrounds. This never ending commitment to equality was recognized by the NAACP, which awarded Masada with its Freedom Award.

Comedian Paul Mooney , Jamie Masada, owner and CEO of the Laugh Factory, along with African American comedians and community leaders announce a new Laugh Factory policy banning the N word. Michael Richards will only be allowed to perform at the comedy club after he apologizes to all of the individuals present that fateful night, and makes a $500

On November 27, 2006, the Laugh Factory, led by Jamie Masada and supported by Paul Mooney and community leaders, announced a ban on the N-word following the Michael Richards incident.

Laugh Factory in Hollywood unveils 148-foot-long Black Lives Matter mural, The mural in Hollywood that was unveiled is believed to be the largest in the country dedicated to Black Lives Matter.

Laugh Factory in Hollywood unveils 148-foot-long Black Lives Matter mural -  July 8, 2020, ABC7 Eyewitness News.

Comedy on the Hot Seat

Comedy on the Hot Seat -Dec. 3, 2006, The New York Times

Tiffany Haddish weighs in on George Floyd protests: ‘You shouldn’t be scared to be in America’, ctress Tiffany Haddish can’t even drive through Beverly Hills without getting stopped, she told CNN’s Suzanne Malveaux in an emotional interview Friday.

Tiffany Haddish weighs in on George Floyd protests: ‘You shouldn’t be scared to be in America’ - June 12, 2020, CNN

Asian-Americans in Hollywood Address Anti-Asian Racism, Comedian and activist stands outside the Laugh Factory in front of a marquee displaying the message “#StopAsianHate” to raise awareness against anti-Asian violence.

Asian-Americans in Hollywood Address Anti-Asian Racism - April 5, 2021, Golden Globes Awards.

To Hate One of Us is to Hate All of Us, We Mourn With Charleston

To Hate One of Us is to Hate All of Us, We Mourn With Charleston - Jun 24, 2015, Huffington Post

Outstanding Contributions to Our Nation

Jamie Masada’s achievements are honored with prestigious awards. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2006) celebrates his dedication to supporting underprivileged communities and promoting American values. A framed photo shows him wearing the medal at the ceremony. The Daily Point of Light Award (2015), signed by former President George H.W. Bush, recognizes Masada for his impactful community service across America. These awards reflect his commitment to fostering positive change through comedy and philanthropy.

Laugh Factory has a long history of philanthropy and catering to those who are underserved. From fundraising, to annual free holiday dinners, to COVID-19 vaccine incentives for the underprivileged. Laugh Factory is consistently working with those in the community who need it most by providing essential financial assistance and resources. Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada was awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions and selfless generosity.

Jamie Masada, founder of the Laugh Factory, is seated in front of the club’s iconic logo. Jamie Masada The Gold Standard: How the movies -- past and present -- changed our lives

Jamie Masada, The Gold Standard: How the movies -- past and present -- changed our lives - Jan 4, 2007 , Variety

Jamie Masada stands with comedian Dave Chappelle

How the Laugh Factory's Jamie Masada Became Comedy's King of Philanthropy - Nov 23, 2020, Los Angeles Magazine

City of Los Angeles

A diverse collection of awards recognizes Jamie Masada's contributions to the Hollywood community and public service. Honors include the Humanitarian of the Year (2006) from Blessed Sacrament Social Services, commendations from the Los Angeles City Council, and acknowledgments from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Los Angeles Police Department for his charitable work. Other awards from institutions like the Hollywood Arts Council and Midnight Mission further highlight his impact on supporting those in need and advancing comedic arts.

Laugh Factory has played an active part in the city of Los Angeles for over 40 years. Its focus extends beyond comedy towards uplifting the many communities that make up this great city. From giving our unsheltered community members a warm meal and a free comedy show on Thanksgiving as well as Christmas, Laugh Factory’s service to its city is year-round. The many organizations that have recognized Laugh Factory for its work include the Hollywood Arts Council, the City of Los Angeles, The Midnight Mission, and many more.

year-round

A large crowd lines up outside the Laugh Factory under a marquee offering free Christmas dinner and toys for those in need.

Los Angeles Journal; Food and Fellowship Unite Struggling Entertainers - Dec. 26, 1998, The New York Times

Comedian Tiffany Haddish serves holiday meals to guests

Tiffany Haddish serves needy and performs at free Christmas dinner at Laugh Factory in Hollywood - Dec. 25, 2019, Daily News

Comedian Tim Allen, center, is joined by his wife, actress Jane Hajduk, and other comedians serving Christmas dinner to guests at the at Hollywood’s Laugh Factory in 2019

L.A.’s Laugh Factory is taking its free Thanksgiving dinner outside amid COVID-19 - Nov. 25, 2020, Los Angeles Times

Comics Frazer Smitch, Tom Dressen and others serving up a free meal on Thanksgiving

Laugh Factory Offers Free Meals, Toys And Entertainment On Christmas - Dec. 23, 2015, LAist

Mental Health Services

Erasing the Stigma Leadership Award highlights Jamie Masada's contributions toward mental health awareness and reducing stigma.
Sad Clown Illustration: An illustration of a sad clown with teary eyes and a green hat, accompanied by a quote from Jamie Masada. The quote reads, "A guy walks into a psychiatrist’s office feeling suicidal. The psychiatrist tells him what he needs is a good belly laugh and that he should go across the street where a comedy show is playing and see a very funny clown who makes everybody hysterical laughing. 'He’ll take your mind off your troubles,' said the psychiatrist. The guy looks at the doctor and says 'I am the clown from the circus across the street.'" This illustration and quote poignantly reflect the mental health struggles often hidden behind a comedian’s laughter.

A first of its kind for comedy, the Laugh Factory has provided its comedians with free mental health counseling from a licensed psychiatrist for over ten years. In 2011, owner Jamie Masada received an award from Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services for being a Comedy Innovator and Humanitarian.

Laugh Factory to add therapy to stand-up comics’ routine, The iconic Laugh Factory stage with its colorful, arched backdrop and logo

Laugh Factory to add therapy to stand-up comics’ routine - Feb. 9, 2011, Los Angeles Times.

The logo for Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, showcasing Laugh Factory’s partnership in mental health initiatives.

Didi Hirsch “Erasing the Stigma” Honors Mental Health Awareness - April 25, 2011, Culver City Crossroads.

Hirsch kudos honor helmers, Masada Org lauds media portrayals of people with mental illness.

Hirsch kudos honor helmers, Masada - Apr 29, 2011, Variety

Ildiko Tabori and her dog Johnny Carson at her home in Culver City. Tabori, the Laugh Factory’s in-house therapist, has added dog walking therapy sessions to her menu of services for comics during the pandemic.

Why Ildiko Tabori’s dog walking therapy is a comic’s best friend - Nov. 9, 2021, Los Angeles Times

USO: Wounded Soldiers

This collection showcases awards honoring Jamie Masada and the Laugh Factory for their contributions to comedy and support for military and veterans’ communities. Notable items include a VFW Certificate of Appreciation, a crystal microphone Legend Award from the USO, and a statue representing excellence in comedy.

Laugh Factory has worked with the United Service Organizations (USO) to serve active-duty members and their families by providing live comedy shows and an annual telethon to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada was recognized by the USO.

Jon Stites founded and hosts Operation Comedy shows, which now has a residency at the Laugh Factory in Long Beach

Operation Comedy: Long Beach Laugh Factory to host free monthly performances for veterans - Aug. 28, 2017, Los Angeles Daily News

Freedom of Religious Belief

Awards honoring Jamie Masada and the Laugh Factory for global philanthropy, including clean water projects in India and Ghana and support for Jewish community initiatives.

Laugh Factory offers an open stage for all thoughts and beliefs. Laughter has the power to heal the world by bringing us together, and Laugh Factory extends its helping hand to different religious groups throughout the country.

Laugh Factory Holding Free High Holiday Days Services

Laugh Factory Holding Live Stream High Holy Days Services - Sept. 16, 2020, Jewish Journal

Animal Advocate

Awarded to the Laugh Factory by the Los Angeles SPCA in 1996 for supporting animal welfare.

Animals have the unique ability to heal us. Laugh Factory has a long history of providing resources to help nonprofit organizations find homes for rescue animals, like Encino-based nonprofit Pryor’s Planet. Laugh Factory comedians are vocal advocates for the proper treatment of man’s best friend.

To learn more about the Laugh Factory Legacy, please click here to visit our press release section.

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