Cary Odes launched his comedy career in Chicago, where he studied at Second City with improv legend Del Close. He moved to Los Angeles and made history as the first comedian to become a regular at the Comedy Store without first auditioning for Mitzi Shore. After his first showcase for Paramount, Mitzi approached him and said, “You’re funny. You can work here whenever you want.” For the next dozen years, Cary toured the country headlining clubs and colleges while maintaining his status as a regular at premier venues including the Comedy Store, Improv, Laugh Factory, Comedy and Magic Club, the Ice House, and the beloved Igby’s Café.
Cary has performed on over 20 television shows across all major networks, including MTV, VH1, and Comedy Central. As an actor, he has appeared on Melrose Place and Touched by an Angel, and served as a joke writer for the NBC game show Wordplay. He has headlined clubs and colleges in 25 states and warmed up audiences for hit television shows including Home Improvement and Mad About You.
Beyond entertainment, Cary dedicated two years to teaching stand-up comedy to incarcerated gang members, an experience that NBC developed into the pilot “On the Inside.” His creative talents extend to writing, as his short story “The Follower” was adapted into an award-winning short film that Steven Spielberg optioned. This diverse experience demonstrates Cary’s ability to connect with audiences across all backgrounds and circumstances.
