‘860’ Broadway Review: Billy Crystal Remembers The Stuff Of Life And Loss
Billy Crystal’s career, from his catch-a-rising-star stand-up days of the 1970s, his groundbreaking role as TV’s first regular-cast gay character on the sitcom Soap and through his years as both a top Hollywood director and what many consider the greatest host in Oscar history, gets a fine, funny and emotional telling in 860, Crystal’s new […]
In the Broadway production "860," Billy Crystal's one-man show, the comedian skillfully weaves his personal history with the devastating 2025 Los Angeles wildfires that destroyed his home at 860 Chautauqua Boulevard. Rather than delivering a standard comedy, Crystal begins "860" by recounting the harrowing escape of him and his wife Janice during the inferno, bringing an emotional intensity to the stage designed by Scott Pask.
Directed by Tony Awards nominee Scott Ellis, "860" features a mix of video designs, explosions, and images that vividly depict the aftermath of the fire. With nine Tony nominations for direction, Ellis adds a grandeur to the show, reminiscent of big ensemble dramas. The production maintains high energy, with the stage exploding numerous times, keeping the audience engaged.
The narrative shifts from a tragedy to a comedy as Crystal reflects on his upbringing in the 1930s house and the journey that led him from a TV comedy series to becoming a successful comedian. In particular, Crystal highlights his friendship with notable figures in sports and entertainment, including Muhammad Ali, Robin Williams, Rob Reiner, and Jack Nicholson.
However, Crystal's own nostalgia for Mickey Mantle occasionally veers into a tear-jerking sentimentality. The show pays tribute to Crystal's nine Oscar hosting gigs with a Life magazine cover from 1990 proclaiming his "genius," while also mocking Donald Trump for his 2023 Kennedy Center Honor. A standout moment comes when Crystal uses Robin Williams to deliver a scathing joke about Ronald Reagan in Hell, a joke that not only shocks but also elicits laughter.
Overall, "860" is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of Crystal's life, enriched by his distinctive comedic style and the powerful support of the Imperial Theatre stage.
Written by urgent.news from TheWrap's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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