Where to catch Mike during the 2024 Columbus Comedy Festival:
Wednesday, August 14 – 7pm – Hosting for Rob Ward at CPAC
Friday, August 16 – 7pm – True Story: An Improv Comedy Show at Hashtag
Writer/ Producer / Comedian • Columbus
Mike Larsen is a comedian and writer who got his start in San Francisco in the 80’s comedy boom. His gift for jokewriting attracted the attention of top headliners, who brought him on the road as an opening act and writing partner. Mike rose through the ranks, working clubs in 43 states and overseas, and racking up television appearances including HBO, Showtime, and multiple appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Mike’s career got a boost when he segued into television writing, working on a dozen hit shows, including The Drew Carey Show, Grace Under Fire, and Ellen, and culminating in an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Comedy Writing for HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher.
He moved to Ohio in 2017 with his wife, actor Tina Gasbarra, and their son. His eclectic career is now anchored by writing speeches for national progressive leaders and influencers. He also teaches a popular jokewriting class at Columbus’ Hashtag Comedy Co, and mentors up-and-coming comics.