My Favorite Norm MacDonald Joke

The late Norm MacDonald would have been 65 years old today. When he passed away in 2021, the world learned that he had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma back in 2013. He only told his family, agent, and producing partner, fearing that revealing his condition to the public would “affect the way he was perceived”.

Comedians, actors, talk show hosts all seemed to have a favorite story about Norm. Many were visibly shaken by his passing. Norm was highly respected and loved by many. Among those who praised him were David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Dave Chappelle, Chevy Chase, Adam Sandler, Jay Leno, David Spade, Artie Lange, Bob Saget and Jim Carrey.

Letterman said he was “[The best] in every important way, in the world of stand-up… an opinion shared by me and all peers.”

Conan said, “Norm had the most unique comedic voice I have ever encountered and he was so relentlessly and uncompromisingly funny. I will never laugh that hard again.”

My favorite Norm MacDonald joke was told on Conan’s show. It is a fantastic example of Norm’s amazing ability to tell a joke. I don’t care how many times I hear this, I always laugh.