Plot Synopsis

ROOTS OF COMEDY WITH JESUS TREJO is a half-hour documentary series that follows the host, Mexican-American comedian Jesus Trejo, as he embarks on an emotional odyssey and telling the "stories behind the laughs," revealing how the most memorable comedy traces back to the roots of a community with themes that are central to the series. Along his journey, Trejo visits six U.S. regions (Denver, Portland, Minneapolis, Austin, Los Angeles and Chinle, Arizona) where he meets with six rising comedians who explore the mosaic of our nation through the lens of stand-up comedy. Episodes include:

"Ali Sultan" (Friday, June 21, 2024 at 10pm on PBS): In Minneapolis, Jesus Trejo meets Yemeni comedian Ali Sultan. Ali opens up about his mental health struggles, weaving humor and vulnerability into a narrative of resilience and self-discovery, highlighting how comedy has helped his well-being.

"Vanessa Gonzalez" (Friday, June 21, 2024 at 10:30pm on PBS): Jesus Trejo follows Austin-based rising comedian Vanessa Gonzalez on a Texan adventure back to her hometown of Laredo. Vanessa shares the humor of her childhood as the daughter of first-generation, Mexican American border patrol agents.

"Eeland Stribling" (Friday, June 28, 2024 at 10pm on PBS): Jesus Trejo travels to Denver to meet a comic whose life on the river is as important as his life on stage. Eeland Stribling strives to find true life balance in the outdoors of Colorado where he often calls on his experience as a wildlife biologist.

"Tatanka Means" (Friday, June 28, 2024 at 10:30pm on PBS): Exploring Chinle, Arizona, Jesus Trejo connects with Native American comic and actor Tatanka Means. Tatanka delves into his upbringing on the reservation, using humor to illuminate the enduring challenges faced by Indigenous communities nationwide.

"Adam Pasi" (Friday, July 5, 2024 at 10pm on PBS): In Portland, Jesus Trejo meets Samoan comedian Adam Pasi. The only ever two-time winner of Portland's Funniest Person competition, Adam takes Jesus behind the scenes, showcasing the grind it takes to become a successful comic while performing for his parents for the first time.

"Sierra Katow" (Friday, July 5, 2024 at 10:30pm on PBS): In Los Angeles, Jesus Trejo embraces the hometown vibe, teaming up with actor/comedian Sierra Katow. A fourth-generation Chinese and Japanese American, Sierra and Jesus together weave culture, history and humor against the vibrant tapestry of L.A.