Ben Stiller Donates Iconic Stiller & Meara Archive to the National Comedy Center
Ben Stiller is making a significant contribution to the preservation of comedy history by donating the beloved archive of his parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, to the National Comedy Center. This donation coincides with the upcoming release of his documentary film “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,” which will be available on Apple TV.
Legacy of Stiller & Meara
Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara enjoyed a successful career that spanned five decades, captivating audiences with their comedic talents. Their performances in various television shows and specials helped define American comedy. Their impact continued until their passing, with Jerry Stiller dying in 2020 and Anne Meara in 2015.
Contents of the Archive
The Stiller & Meara archive includes a wealth of materials, showcasing their creative journey. Key elements found in the collection are:
- Love letters exchanged during their relationship
- Handwritten drafts of sketches
- Memorabilia from early improv sessions at Chicago’s Compass Players
- Recordings from iconic shows like “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” and “The Carol Burnett Show”
Quotes from Ben Stiller
In reference to the donation, Ben Stiller expressed his sentiment about preserving his parents’ legacy. He stated that their work was not only a gift to his family but to anyone interested in understanding the art of comedy. He remarked, “Knowing my parents’ body of work is preserved at the National Comedy Center means a great deal.”
Expert Praise for the Archive
Dr. Laura LaPlaca, head of the National Comedy Center’s archive, emphasized the magnitude of the donation. She noted, “Stiller and Meara’s archive contains tens of thousands of pages… Their comedy was crafted to feel organic, but they were serial editors, often refining a single sketch over decades.”
Release of the Documentary
“Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost” chronicles the unique partnership of Ben Stiller’s parents, highlighting their influence on American comedy. The documentary premiered at the New York Film Festival on October 5 and is scheduled for release on Apple TV on October 26.
Exhibition at the National Comedy Center
In addition to the donation, select pieces of the Stiller & Meara archive will be exhibited at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York. This display aims to educate and inspire future generations about the craft of comedy.
