That’s Not Funny!

Long before WKRP in Cincinnati, Tim Reid and his partner, Tom Dreesen, were told they were funny enough to be in show business. They took that advice literally, and formed the nation’s first black-and-white standup comedy act. Their marketing tools appeared naturally in place: A black youngster named Tim and the white one named Tom—even the names alliterated perfectly—leaving them the luxury of calling their act TIM & TOM. As their business manager, I had a ringside seat—watching them make the unpredictable trek from their hometown of Harvey, Illinois to Hollywood, California. Their young wives and children were affected as each ‘Daddy’ faced myriad challenges in this courageous and innovative foray into show business.