Perlman: The Multi-Talented Career of a Comedy Writer and Cartoonist
From the early days of reading comic strips to writing for some of the most influential voices in American late-night television, Perlman has carved out a unique niche in the world of comedy. By blending a background in political science and improv theater with a keen eye for the absurdities of modern life, he has transitioned seamlessly between the roles of staff writer, cartoonist, and podcaster.
Early Life and Creative Foundations
Born in Seattle, Perlman moved to Madison, Wisconsin, at the age of 11. Growing up in a creative environment—influenced largely by his father, an artist—he developed a lifelong passion for the arts and theater. His childhood was shaped by a love for comics, including iconic works such as The Far Side, Bloom County, Foxtrot, Calvin and Hobbes, and the dark humor of Charles Addams.
During his time at Madison West High School, Perlman began exploring performance, studying improv (the art of spontaneous comedic performance) at ComedySportz. This interest continued through his undergraduate years at Lawrence University, where he majored in political science while continuing to perform in theater and improv.
The Path to Professional Comedy
After graduating from Lawrence University, Perlman moved to Chicago to refine his comedic timing and writing. He studied at several prestigious institutions, including IO Theater, The Second City, and Annoyance Theatre. His professional experience in Chicago included performing with the Improvised Shakespeare Company and the touring company of The Second City.
In 2017, Perlman relocated to New York City to join The Opposition as a staff writer, working alongside Jordan Klepper. This move set the stage for his tenure at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. As a staff writer for the show, Perlman achieved significant critical acclaim, earning six Primetime Emmy Award nominations and winning a Writers Guild of America Award.
Cartooning and Literary Success
While established in television, Perlman maintained a parallel passion for visual storytelling. Although he had previously shared original cartoons on Instagram, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted him to turn cartooning into a daily practice. This discipline led him to submit work to The New Yorker, where his cartoons—which typically highlight the awkwardness and faux pas of modern existence—were eventually accepted.
His success as a cartoonist transitioned into the publishing world with the release of his debut book, Well, This Is Me, in June 2024 via Andrews McMeel. He followed this success with a second collection, Hi, It's Me Again, released in 2025.
Recent Ventures and Current Life
Perlman's tenure with The Late Show concluded with the program's finale in May 2026. Shortly thereafter, in June 2026, he partnered with former colleague Michael Cruz Kayne to launch the comedy podcast But Also.
Today, Perlman resides in Brooklyn with his wife and their two dogs, continuing to contribute to the landscape of contemporary American comedy.
Key Facts
- Education: Majored in political science at Lawrence University.
- TV Accolades: Six Primetime Emmy nominations and one Writers Guild of America Award.
- Publications: Author of Well, This Is Me (2024) and Hi, It's Me Again (2025).
- Cartooning: Regular contributor to The New Yorker.
- Podcast: Co-host of But Also with Michael Cruz Kayne.
| Period/Year | Role/Achievement | Organization/Project |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Graduation | Improv Student/Performer | IO Theater, Second City, Annoyance Theatre |
| 2017 | Staff Writer | The Opposition |
| Until May 2026 | Staff Writer | The Late Show with Stephen Colbert |
| June 2024 | Author (Debut Book) | Well, This Is Me |
| 2025 | Author (Second Book) | Hi, It's Me Again |
| June 2026 | Podcast Co-founder | But Also |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the themes of Perlman's cartoons?
Perlman's cartoons primarily focus on the awkwardness and social faux pas associated with modern life.
Which television shows has Perlman written for?
He has served as a staff writer for both The Opposition and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
What awards has Perlman won or been nominated for?
He has been nominated for six Primetime Emmy Awards and has won a Writers Guild of America Award.
When did Perlman start cartooning for The New Yorker?
He began a daily cartooning practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, which eventually led to his work being accepted by The New Yorker.
What is the name of Perlman's podcast?
Perlman co-launched the comedy podcast But Also in June 2026 with Michael Cruz Kayne.