Average Joe

The Memoirs of a Blue-Collar Entertainer

By: Joe Piscopo

Narrated by: Joe Piscopo

The inside story of award-winning, popular entertainer and actor who discovered that the key to success in the entertainment industry is a strong work ethic and a willingness to reinvent, never quit, and keep learning to survive.

Joe Piscopo has made both live and living room audiences laugh for five decades, winning the acclaim and affection of millions of fans. Often recognized as one of the actors who replaced the original cast on Saturday Night Live, he helped rescue the show from cancellation.

In Average Joe, Piscopo shares behind-the-scenes stories from an impressive, multi-faceted career. As a new entertainer, he performed stand-up and hosted at the famous Improv in New York City, where he got to know comics who were just starting out, including Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, and Gilbert Gottfried. On SNL, he often paired with newcomer Eddie Murphy, writing and performing now classic skits. He saw himself as the utility guy, the one who could jump in, get something done, and get a laugh. His often uncanny impersonations ranged from President Ronald Reagan to Joan Rivers to his hero Frank Sinatra—all of whom he met in person. Beyond SNL, his career spans from car and beer commercials to roles in major movies.

A self-proclaimed Dork Dad, Joe found that celebrity can sidetrack a person from the pursuit of what’s really important in life. After focusing on fitness for his own health, he was featured on the cover of body-building magazines, which had a notable impact on his career. Today, Joe is still a hardworking entertainer, hosting his own radio show, The Joe Piscopo Show, and performing comedy, song, and dance live across the US and Canada. Joe sums it all up with: “I’m part of the blue-collar of show business, baby.”

©2025 Joe Piscopo (P)2025 Forefront Books

Joe Piscopo!

Joe narrates his story. Great memories from SNL. Lots of interactions with famous people. Frank Sinatra being his most famous impression.

This was an enjoyable listen.

Great listen!

Did awesome job great story .Great

Definitely listen to his story , mistakes and
His success in life

Joe and Eddie were the two top members of SNL, and were close personal friends.

Joe is a humble guy, who didn't let SNL stardom change that. As a fan of SNL since college in the mid-1970s, I enjoyed hearing Joe's behind the scenes experience. Excellent first hand narration by Joe himself.

Jersey Joe Hits It Outta The Park

Joe did a wonderful job of narrating his story. He made it sound as though he wasn’t reading his words, but just sitting at his table at home, telling you some interesting things that happened in his life. A humble tale by a humble guy from NJ. His imitations of some comedians and Hollywood stars were spot on. He also made me laugh out loud. Great job. By the way, I’m from exit 172 off the Parkway.

This Joe is above average

It’s a listen I couldn’t put down. What a patriot. Joe Piscopo shares incredible family stories and stories from SNL. This book is far from average, but you’ll be glad you listened.