The Opry’s Comedy Tradition with Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer • 2026
Interviews
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1h 31m
In support of the Museum’s exhibition “Country’s Grandest Stage: The Opry at 100,” Henry Cho and Gary Mule Deer discuss the Grand Ole Opry’s tradition of comedy and their own paths to the world-famous country radio show. This program was recorded live on April 15, 2026, and moderated by the Museum’s Paul Kingsbury.
Throughout the program the comedians share how they began working with the Opry, their comedic influences, and their love for the Opry’s family-like work environment. They also speak about how they started in comedy, why they have chosen to only perform clean material, and the words of wisdom and encouragement they have received from other Opry performers. Additionally, the program includes video clips of routines from Cho and Mule Deer, and footage from an Opry comedy segment featuring Rod Brasfield and Minnie Pearl.
In January 2023, Cho and Mule Deer were invited to become members of the Grand Ole Opry. Hailing from Knoxville, Cho made his Opry debut in 2011 and performed at the Opry more than 100 times before being asked to join the cast. Mule Deer, who comes from South Dakota, performed on the show more than 160 times before his induction.
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