The State

The State, a goofy and original half-hour sketch-comedy television show, aired on MTV in the early 1990s. Eleven young comedians not only created and directed the show, they also stared and edited it as well. Known for its offbeat and sometimes absurd humor, The State spawned several memorable characters and catch-phrases: Louie (I Wanna Dip My Balls in it!), and the singers Barry and Levon ($240 Worth of Pudding) are two of the most fondly remembered. Perhaps inspired by Monty Python's Flying Circus, The State sometimes "linked" the sketches together - for example, a joke or image that ended one sketch would lead into the next one. Because it aired on MTV, it was common to hear alternative music in the background. Though short-lived, the cast has moved on and still frequently works together in films such as Reno 911!: Miami and Wet Hot American Summer.