Eight-time Grammy-nominated comedian and actor Jim Gaffigan returns to Louisville October 7–9 for a three-show run at the Bomhard Theater at The Kentucky Center—and this time, he’s bringing something extra neat: bourbon.
In a recent conversation with Audience Magazine, Gaffigan offered a spirited preview of what fans can expect from his upcoming Louisville performances, which he’s dubbed his “Bourbon Set.”
“My bourbon awakening—my bourbon birth, if you will—happened during the pandemic,” Gaffigan said. “Since then, I’ve developed material about bourbon, American whiskey, the culture, the history, and just my general obsession with it.”
Louisville audiences will be the first to see this specialized show, though still part of his “Everything is Wonderful” tour, the Louisville performances are designed as a celebration of Kentucky’s signature spirit and its cultural impact. In addition, he will also be appearing at the Bourbon & Beyond Music Festival on Sunday Sept. 14th for part of their Fork & Flask culinary and bourbon experiences.
Listen to the full interview below:
“What’s great about doing shows in Kentucky is that you can talk about bourbon as long as you want and no one minds,” Gaffigan joked. “In other parts of the country, people start to wonder if I’m secretly working for the American Whiskey Council.”
Though known for clean comedy and signature bits about Hot Pockets and dad life, Gaffigan’s latest material leans into his growing bourbon fandom, making Louisville an ideal city for this boozy blend of laughs.
A Love Letter to Bourbon Country
While Gaffigan admits he’s still developing his bourbon palate, his enthusiasm is unmistakable.
“I started out loving wheated bourbons, but now I really appreciate older, higher-proof bottles,” he said. “I’m not big on flavored whiskey or finished bourbons. Give me something bold, something with character.”
Among his favorites? “Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel,” “King of Kentucky,” and local boutique brands like Pursuit United—not just for the flavor, but for the people behind the product.
“I love meeting the folks from these distilleries,” he added. “They often come to the shows, and I get to nerd out with them backstage. And hey—sometimes I walk away with a free bottle. That doesn’t hurt.”
Writing for the Bourbon Buffs
Gaffigan’s writing process is constantly evolving, often shaped by his touring schedule and tested live on stage.
“I don’t really use a script,” he explained. “Every show is a little different. It depends on the city, the venue, and even my mood. Stand-up is a conversation, and the audience tells you what works.”
And while Gaffigan frequently writes with his wife, Jeannie, feedback from his five children is… mixed.
“My 16-year-old daughter? Zero interest. But my 21-year-old might find something funny—depending on the topic,” he said. “My shows are mostly for adults, especially the bourbon ones. That said, I like material that resonates with everyone—from teenagers to grandparents.”
A Midwestern Guy with Kentucky Ties
Though born in Indiana, Gaffigan has a soft spot for Kentucky.
“I’ve become a real fan of Louisville,” he said. “I love the bourbon, the horse racing, and the charm. And I love walking Whiskey Row—it’s like Disneyland for bourbon drinkers.”
He also fondly recalled performing at Bourbon & Beyond and exploring nearby towns like Bardstown and Lexington.
“You’re going to think I’m pandering,” he admitted with a laugh, “but Kentucky really is one of my favorite places to perform.”
And while he’s a touring powerhouse, don’t expect to spot him at too many live concerts.
“Honestly, I’d rather go out to dinner than stand in a crowded amphitheater,” he confessed. “At Bourbon & Beyond, I was definitely more excited about the bourbon than the music—though the lineup was fantastic.”
Last Call: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Show
So why should fans grab tickets to this bourbon-soaked comedy event?
“If you’re a bourbon nerd—or even just bourbon-curious—you’ll get it,” Gaffigan said. “These shows are a love letter to bourbon culture, and if you share the obsession, you’ll feel right at home.”
Tickets are nearly sold out for Jim Gaffigan’s Bourbon Set, October 7–9 at the Bomhard Theater. For tickets, visit kentuckyperformingarts.org.
By Doug Dreisbach, Audience Magazine
