Longboat Resident Cliff Hornsby is in Florida's Funniest Comedian Contest

By Petra Rivera
| 2:15 p.m. September 3, 2024

Longboat Key
Neighbors

Gerry Atric is revving up his walker and tightening up his jokes.

Longboat's resident comedian Cliff Hornsby, more commonly known as "Gerry Atric," is taking on Florida's Funniest Comedian Contest.

Cliff Hornsby at his "Gerry Atric" show.

Originally from Atlanta, Hornsby went to McCurdy’s Humor Institute in his 80s to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a comedian. Through his courses and mentors, he developed a relatable stand-up routine about his experiences and life in his old age. Now, he travels all over Florida and neighboring states for his award-winning "Gerry Atric" show.

After sending a video with his favorite jokes to the judges, Hornsby was selected to compete in the 10th annual Florida's Funniest Comedian Contest for the section hosted at McCurdy's Comedy Theatre.

The judges host the contest in 14 cities across Florida. The winner from each city will compete in the finals in Southeast Florida to win the title of Florida's Funniest Comedian.

"I was excited to make it to McCurdy's round and am honored to be representing Sarasota in the contest," said Hornsby.

Watch our very own Longboater Hornsby in action at the contest at 7 p.m. on Sept. 25 at McCurdy's Comedy Theatre. Tickets are $25. For more information, call 925-3869 or visit McCurdysComedy.com.

author

Petra Rivera

Petra Rivera is the Longboat community reporter. She holds a bachelor’s degree of journalism with an emphasis on reporting and writing from the University of Missouri. Previously, she was a food and drink writer for Vox magazine as well as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian.