Funny and Beautiful, But Most Importantly Beautiful

so Michael Eisner was part of a panel and made the following comment:

During an onstage conversation with Goldie Hawn, he theorized on why she’d been so successful: “From my position, the hardest artist to find is a beautiful, funny woman. By far. They usually—boy am I going to get in trouble, I know this goes online—but usually, unbelievably beautiful women, you being an exception, are not funny.”

The first thing that stood out to me was Eisner knew he was going to get in trouble.  Now, someone pointed out to me that these incidences can lead to discussion and learning.  But I am, admittedly, unsure that Eisner is going to listen.  Often, when people tell you they know they will get in trouble for what they are about to say they see themselves as imparting some tough truth.  Maybe Eisner is open to realizing what a dumb statement he made.

And truthfully, my first instinct was to start listing funny very beautiful women in Hollywood.  Lots of people certainly presented evidence to refute Eisner.

But I am thinking my first instinct is part of the problem.  Why should beautiful be the primary criteria here?  Especially for comedy?  Comedy has a long history of overweight, less than handsome male leads.  They are often paired with gorgeous leading ladies.

Yet, when women are the lead, they have to be gorgeous above all.

And that is the real problem.  Talent, wit and timing are important comedic skills…and in the minds of far to many, hold second to…”Is she gorgeous?”  And that criteria needs to go.