Comedian-Actor-TV Show Host Frank Nicotero: Patch Spotlight

Frank Nicotero is a stand-up comedian, television writer, and host of the former syndicated game show "Street Smarts." The North Hills native got his start in Pittsburgh at the Funny Bone comedy club, then toured with comedians such as Drew Carey, Adam Sandler and Rob Schneider. He'll be coming back to town again next month to perform. Can he handle Patch's hard-hitting questions? We're about to find out.

You've been based on the West Coast for decades, but keep coming back to Pittsburgh. You'll be performing at the Oaks Theater in Oakmont on July 29. As much as Patch loves Michael Keaton and Dennis Miller, neither of those Pittsburgh natives seem to stop back here frequently. Why do you?

Yeah, Dennis doesn’t visit the 'Burg much, but I know he’s still extremely proud of his hometown. I was on his radio show a while back and all he wanted to talk about was Pittsburgh!

Keaton, my hero, my idol….loves the 'Burg as much as me!!! He just prefers his ranch in Montana more than having to deal with the Parkway East or I-279! Taking about “wanna get nuts…let’s get nuts” trying to drive on McKnightRoad. Anyway, I love him and he is a huge sports fan and posts about all our teams frequently.

Your late father, Sam Nicotero, was a popular Pittsburgh radio personality. How much influence did he have in inspiring your career?

My Dad, Sam, was a massive influence. He taught me how to be funny and instill my love of movies, music and comedy. He had old comedy albums I listened to secretly: Robert Klein, George Carlin,Cheech and Chong. Both of my parents were incredibly supportive of my decision to pursue standup!

Favorite thing in Pittsburgh that no longer exists?

I’d have to say the Funny Bone at Station Square when it was down right by the Smithfield Street Bridge side. Every Tuesday night was open mic and me and my friends like Auggie Cook, Shaun Blackham, Billy Elmer, Jim Krenn, David Michael, Keith Leslie, David Kaye and the list goes on - we would have 200 people on a Tuesday night then walk down to the piano bar Jellyrolls and have a blast until closing time. We’d karaoke, which was new. That’s where I met Coach Cowher!

Most recent book read?

Recently reading a book about the making of "Caddyshack." Great summer reading about one of my all-time favorites. It’s called "Caddyshack: The Making of a Hollywood Cinderella Story."

Movie you could watch any time?

"Night Shift" with Michael Keaton. "Caddyshack." "Goodfellas. The first two "Godfathers." "Casino." "Rocky."

Favorite pizza topping?

Extra Sauce!!! Easy answer…then sausage.

Early bird or late-nighter?

Used to be a late-nighter, but after you turn 40 you become and early bird, LOL.

Favorite Pittsburgh restaurant?

Monticello’s on Babcock for Italian. . Been going there for years! North Park Lounge - The original one for wings. Hyde Park for steaks.

Favorite adult beverage?br>

Beer. Light beer…not an IPA or microbrew guy. .I.C. Light when I’m home, of course.

Favorite Pittsburgh national celebrity, living or dead?

Again…Keaton.

Favorite local sports mascot: Steely McBeam, Pirate Parrot or Iceburgh?

The Parrot by a mile. I even remember the skinny Parrot!

What would people be surprised to know about you?

Oh boy…I’ve waited for this day. I’m embarrassed to say I don’t know how to do a normal dive into a swimming pool. I know, I know. I just cannonball. It’s so stupid. LOL. Also, maybe I watch "Family Guy" to help me fall asleep, LOL.