Meaning: The quote by John Podhoretz reflects the evolving nature of comedy and entertainment, specifically the convergence of comedians and impressionists within the showbiz industry. In the past, comedians and impressionists were distinct categories, each with its own unique skill set and style of performance. However, as the entertainment landscape has transformed, the line between these two categories has become increasingly blurred, leading to a new breed of comedians who incorporate impressions into their routines.

Traditionally, comedians were known for their ability to deliver humorous anecdotes, observations, and commentary on various aspects of life and society. Their performances relied on clever wordplay, timing, and delivery to elicit laughter from audiences. On the other hand, impressionists specialized in mimicking the voices, mannerisms, and personas of well-known individuals, such as celebrities, politicians, and public figures. Their acts often revolved around impersonating famous personalities and recreating iconic moments in a comedic manner.

However, as John Podhoretz suggests, the distinction between comedians and impressionists has become increasingly blurred in contemporary show business. Many comedians have incorporated impressions into their acts, adding a new dimension to their performances. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including changes in audience preferences, the influence of popular culture, and the rise of social media and digital platforms.

One key factor driving this convergence is the evolving tastes of audiences. In today's fast-paced and media-saturated world, audiences are constantly seeking fresh and engaging forms of entertainment. By integrating impressions into their routines, comedians are able to tap into the public's fascination with celebrity culture and current events, creating a more dynamic and relevant experience for their audience.

Furthermore, the impact of popular culture cannot be overlooked. With the proliferation of television shows, movies, and online content featuring celebrities and public figures, individuals from various walks of life have become familiar to a wide audience. As a result, impressions of these well-known personalities have gained widespread recognition and appeal, providing comedians with a rich source of material to incorporate into their performances.

The rise of social media and digital platforms has also played a significant role in the convergence of comedians and impressionists. With the advent of platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, comedians have found new avenues to showcase their talents and connect with audiences on a global scale. The viral nature of online content has propelled impression-based comedy to new heights, offering comedians the opportunity to reach diverse audiences and build their fan base.

In conclusion, John Podhoretz's quote underscores the changing dynamics of showbiz, where the traditional boundaries between comedians and impressionists have become increasingly fluid. As comedians continue to adapt to the evolving entertainment landscape, the incorporation of impressions into their acts has become a defining feature of contemporary comedy. This convergence reflects the interconnected nature of popular culture, technology, and audience preferences, shaping a new era of comedic performance that embraces the art of impressionism within the realm of stand-up comedy.

References:
- https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/28/arts/television/impressions-comedy.html
- https://www.vulture.com/2016/11/are-impressionists-the-new-standup-comics.html