Joe Piscopo
American Comedian, Actor, Musician, Writer, Radio Talk Show Host and Former SNL Cast Member
Biography
Television, film, theater, nightclubs -- they're all fields in which Joe Piscopo has won the acclaim and affection of millions. For almost 20 years, Joe has proven to be one of show business' brightest lights. After stints as a disc jockey and dinner-theater performer, Joe turned to comedy. In 1980, he was chosen to join a newly formed ensemble charged with one of the most difficult tasks in TV history-replacing the original cast of Saturday Night Live. By the time he left the show in 1985, Joe had left his mark on the program, and the nation, thanks to his wide range of hilarious original characters and celebrity impersonations, from The Sports Guy and Doug Whiner to David Letterman and, of course, Frank Sinatra, who had repeatedly endorsed Joe's portrayal of him. In addition, Piscopo starred in three HBO specials; his work in the first of these, The Joe Piscopo Special, won him a Cable ACE Award for Outstanding Performance. He also starred in the critically acclaimed New Jersey Special on ABC-TV. His work on SNL quite naturally led to Hollywood, and starring roles in such smash hits as “Wise Guys” (with Danny DeVito) and “Johnny Dangerously” (with Michael Keaton). Other film credits include “Dead Heat”, “Sidekicks” and the independent feature films “Two Bits & Pepper”, Roger Corman’s, “Demolition Day”, “The Last Request” (with Danny Aiello) and a dramatic, critically-acclaimed performance in Jonathan Parker’s “Bartleby”. In January 1996, Joe conquered yet another realm when he starred on Broadway as disc jockey Vince Fontaine in Grease! (Ever the trouper, Joe insisted on performing opening night despite conditions created by one of the worst blizzards in history). The show's producers were so impressed with his Broadway turn that they built a touring company around him for the summer of 1996. And when Grease! reopened on Broadway in April, 1997 after a three-month hiatus, it was Joe who was asked to headline the production in order to get it back on its feet. Joe has also recently won acclaim for his dramatic guest-starring roles on the NBC drama, “Law and Order”. You might have also seen Joe on the HBO series “Arli$$”, or as a guest on The FOX News Channel and the nationally syndicated television show, “Extra”. His voice was heard on the Nickelodeon comedy series, “The 1000 Deeds of Eddie McDowd”, and yes, that was Joe as Santa Claus in the ABC-TV Special, “Dear Santa”. Two years ago, Joe Piscopo established Avellino Productions. The New Jersey-based production company has signed a television development deal with HBO for a limited series, “Bloomfield Avenue”. Other projects include, a half-hour sitcom, “Jersey Girls “, and “Joey Benefit”, an independent feature film. Advertisers have long appreciated Joe's unique relationship with his public. He has been featured in two long-running and memorable ad campaigns, for Miller Lite Beer and Bally's health spas. He has also appeared as spokesman for Station Casinos in Las Vegas and GNC Nutrition Centers. Joe most recently appeared in a nationally aired Ragu commercial with Joe Theisman, Joe Fraiser, and Evan Marriott (a.k.a. Joe Millionaire from the popular Fox reality show). Live performances have always been an important part of Joe's career. He has long been one of America's most popular comedy concert attractions, filling arenas and casino showrooms from coast-to-coast and in Canada. Joe tours with his own original Big Band tribute to Frank Sinatra, as well as his multi-media comedy show. Although his unique talents are in constant demand from show business quarters, Joe devotes an extraordinary amount of time to non-profit and charitable activities. His willingness to perform at benefit functions knows no limits. Piscopo received the Volunteer of the Year Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer County, NJ and was the keynote speaker at the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Conference in Chicago. In addition, Piscopo has received Community Service Awards from Boys and Girls Clubs in New Jersey and Broward Co., Fla. and is especially proud to have been recognized from Boy’s Town of Italy in Rome. He was also honored by the Police Activities League in Houston, TX and in a ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, Joe was presented The Leadership in the Performing Arts Award by the Coalition of Italian-American Associations. In 1999, New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman appointed Joe as a Commissioner on The New Jersey Commission to Deter Criminal Activity. Joe is also proud to have represented General Colin Powell on behalf of “America’s Promise”. In January 2002, Joe was inducted into the “Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame”. Most recently Joe was honored by The Cooley’s Anemia Foundation and in April 2004, was selected by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations to receive the internationally prestigious, “Ellis Island Medal of Honor.” Perhaps nearest and dearest to Joe's heart, however, is Jersey Joe's Gyms, a Newark program involving the city's police department and Boys and Girls Club. The concept is twofold: To give inner-city kids a safe and fun place to develop their minds and bodies, and to bring together police and children for mentoring and the promotion of drug-and-violence-free behavior. As a result of this work, Piscopo started his own foundation called “The Positive Impact Foundation”, creating positive media for at risk youth including the syndicated television show for teens, “Positive Impact TV”. This groundbreaking series mixes education and entertainment to reinforce positive behavior and lifestyles among at-risk youth from both urban and suburban backgrounds. The Positive Impact Foundation is proudly working with The Enterasys Networks, supplying a $1 million dollar in-kind grant to inner-city schools for Internet and computer access. Now Joe is tackling the world of sports, where he has become the Ambassador for his hometown Newark Bears Professional Baseball Club. In his role as Ambassador for the Bears Joe will serve in a variety of capacities, including sales, marketing and promotion. Although Joe’s impressive career and public service includes several major accomplishments, he insists his proudest achievement of all is twice being named Father of the Year in 1983 by the National Father's Day Council, and in 1989 by the New Jersey Council of Children's Rights. No matter how busy he may be, Joe always makes sure he has enough time to spend at his Central New Jersey home with his children Joey, Michael, Alexandra and newborn Olivia.
Speech Topics
An Afternoon/Evening with Joe Piscopo
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Joe Piscopo's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Joe Piscopo's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Joe Piscopo's speaking fee?
The typical range for Joe Piscopo's speaking fee is $30,000–$40,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Joe Piscopo to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Joe Piscopo for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Joe Piscopo's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Joe Piscopo through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
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