Lenny Bruce (1925 - 1966)
COMEDIAN, SOCIAL CRITIC

Jewish-American comic Lenny Bruce became a symbol of the first amendment as he fought for the right to free speech throughout his life. His groundbreaking free-form comedy style included critical observations on religion, racism & sex.

 

Denounced for his obscene language, Lenny said he used vulgar words in order to remove the poison from them. He was blacklisted for his ‘sick humor’ & was harassed & arrested often.

 

Ultimately convicted of obscenity, Lenny Bruce died of a drug overdose before his appeal. His trial & eventual pardon is seen as a landmark for freedom of speech in the U.S.