TBS special will challenge viewers to stay awake

by Brian McKim & Traci Skene on April 18th, 2005

The Washington Times is reporting that Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, Will Ferrell, Cameron Diaz, Ben Stiller and Ray Romano will headline what producers describe as “an evening of comedy, music and message to raise awareness of issues concerning the environment”

They’re calling it “Earth to America” and it’ll be taped Nov. 17 during The Comedy Festival at Caesars.

“Comedy can be a very powerful tool to entertain and to educate,” said (Producer Laurie) David, “and that is the goal for ‘Earth to America.’ “

Darn near anything can be a “powerful tool to entertain and educate.” But why pick on comedy? Can’t comedy just be to make people laugh? Did anyone really enjoy any of those Comic Relief specials? On a standup comedy level? Do they really hafta piggyback an issue (or a boatload of issues) on top of a comedy show?

We’re of the mind that the education factor drags the entertainment factor way down. Unless Penn & Teller are the ones doing the educating– their Bullshit series was quite entertaining and informative, especially the one on what a hoax recycling is. (Better not let those two near the building when they tape this show!)