You may know Billy Eichner as the hilarious host of Billy on the Street, the Emmy-nominated comedy game show that features celebrities and random pedestrians. You may also know John Larroquette as the veteran actor who won four Emmys for his role as Dan Fielding on Night Court, and who recently reprised his role in the reboot of the sitcom. But did you know that these two funny men are actually related?
That’s right, Billy Eichner and John Larroquette are cousins. Well, sort of. According to Eichner, they are not blood relatives, but rather connected by marriage. In an interview with Conan O’Brien in 2014, Eichner revealed that his uncle married Larroquette’s sister, making them cousins-in-law
Eichner said that he grew up watching Larroquette on TV and was a big fan of his work. He also said that he met him once at a family reunion when he was a kid, but they didn’t really talk much. He joked that Larroquette probably didn’t even remember him
However, that changed when Eichner became famous himself. He said that Larroquette reached out to him via email and congratulated him on his success. He also said that they exchanged some friendly messages and that Larroquette was very supportive and kind
Eichner also revealed that he invited Larroquette to appear on Billy on the Street, but he declined. He said that Larroquette was too busy with his Broadway career and that he respected his decision. He added that he hoped to work with him someday in the future
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How Billy Eichner and John Larroquette Are Similar
Despite their different backgrounds and generations, Billy Eichner and John Larroquette have some things in common besides their family ties. Here are some of the similarities between them:
- They are both from New York City. Eichner was born and raised in Queens, while Larroquette was born in New Orleans but moved to New York when he was 18
- They are both alumni of Northwestern University. Eichner graduated with a degree in theater in 2000, while Larroquette attended the school briefly in the late 1960s before dropping out to pursue acting
- They are both known for their comedic roles on TV. Eichner is famous for his loud and outrageous persona on Billy on the Street, while Larroquette is best known for his sarcastic and sleazy character on Night Court.
- They are both versatile actors who have also done drama, animation, and voice work. Eichner has appeared on shows like Parks and Recreation, American Horror Story, and The Simpsons, and voiced Timon in the live-action remake of The Lion King. Larroquette has starred on shows like The Practice, Boston Legal, and The Librarians, and voiced Maltz in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.
- They are both award-winning performers who have received critical acclaim for their work. Eichner has been nominated for six Emmys, two Critics’ Choice Awards, and a Daytime Emmy Award for his work on Billy on the Street and other projects. Larroquette has won five Emmys, a Tony Award, a Drama Desk Award, and a Golden Globe Award for his work on Night Court and other projects.
Why Billy Eichner and John Larroquette Are Inspiring
Billy Eichner and John Larroquette are not only talented and funny actors, but also inspiring examples of perseverance and passion in the entertainment industry. Here are some of the reasons why they are admirable:
- They both overcame personal challenges and struggles in their lives. Eichner has been open about his experiences as a gay man in Hollywood and how he faced discrimination and rejection early in his career. He has also spoken about his struggles with anxiety and depression and how he used comedy as a coping mechanism Larroquette has been candid about his battle with alcoholism and how he quit drinking in 1982 after realizing it was affecting his health and career. He has also shared how he survived a near-fatal car accident in 1975 that left him with scars on his face and body
- They both pursued their dreams despite the odds and obstacles. Eichner started his career as a struggling comedian in New York, performing at small venues and creating his own web series. He eventually caught the attention of Funny or Die, which helped him launch Billy on the Street in 2011. He has since become one of the most popular and influential comedians of his generation Larroquette dropped out of college to pursue acting and moved to Los Angeles in 1973. He worked as a DJ and did voiceover work before landing his first major role on Baa Baa Black Sheep in 1976. He has since become one of the most respected and versatile actors of his generation
- They both use their platforms to raise awareness and support causes they care about. Eichner is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation, and has partnered with organizations like GLAAD, The Trevor Project, and Swing Left to promote social justice and political engagement. He has also used his comedy to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and to celebrate diversity and inclusion. Larroquette is a passionate supporter of environmental and humanitarian causes, and has donated to organizations like The Nature Conservancy, Doctors Without Borders, and The Innocence Project. He has also used his fame to educate people about the dangers of alcoholism and addiction, and to encourage sobriety and recovery.
Conclusion
Billy Eichner and John Larroquette are not only related by marriage, but also by their shared talent, humor, and charisma. They are both successful and acclaimed actors who have entertained millions of fans with their performances. They are also inspiring and admirable people who have overcome challenges and used their platforms to make a positive difference in the world. They are truly a dynamic duo of comedy and drama.
