That Griffin line is ancient

by Brian McKim & Traci Skene on January 2nd, 2009

We’ve notice chatter here and there on the internet regarding Kathy Griffin’s outburst on CNN the other night that suggests that some folks are dazzled by her quick wit and inventiveness in using the “I don’t go to where you work and (fill in second half of vulgar/non-vulgar analogy here)” heckler line.

The line is at least a quarter-century old. And it’s probably older than that. We recall comics from NYC and Long Island using it frequently in the early ’80s. We suspect it predates that. The version that Griffin used was the most popular. Clean versions (e.g.: “I don’t go to where you work and slap the mop out of your hands.”) abound.

It never occurred to us to point out just how old the line was. We figure, out of all the websites out there, ours would have a readership that had heard the line at least once and would know instantly that it was ancient. Then a reader named “a” commented on our post and called the retort “hack.” And, of course, we saw the many comments on various sites that applauded Griffin for her creativity.

“a”is quite right. The line is old. And one might think that Griffin would come up with something more creative. However, out of her element (and being harangued by drunken beasts while trying to do a live broadcast), perhaps she felt justified in bringing out the big guns.

We suspect also that Griffin is not accustomed to hecklers.

Excuses? No. Explanation? Maybe.

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