Steve Martin performed stand-up for the first time since 1981 on Feb. 18 at the Beacon Theater in New York, where he opened for Jerry Seinfeld's monthly show.
Martin reportedly eased right back into his old stand-up humor throughout his 10 minute routine. He also joked that he got roped into the appearance, saying, "I’m here tonight because of that old showbiz saying: Never lose a bet to Jerry," Entertainment Weekly reported. The entire stand-up performance was first outlined by Vulture's Jesse David Fox.
Martin's set ended seamlessly as he played a bluegrass song on his banjo until Seinfeld stepped out with its case, telling Martin, “OK, wrap it up," according to New York Daily News.
Martin was known as one of the most talented stand-up comedians until he stopped 35 years ago to focus on his film and writing careers. He later revealed in his book Born Standing Up that he felt that once stand-up caught on, it was over.
At the end of Seinfeld's show, he once again mentioned Martin, admitting that working with the Planes, Trains and Automobiles star was the thrill of his career. Martin did an episode of Seinfeld's Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee this year.