Meaning: Andy Kaufman was a comedian, actor, and performance artist known for his eccentric and avant-garde approach to comedy. Throughout his career, Kaufman challenged traditional notions of reality, often blurring the lines between performance and genuine behavior. The quote, "What's real? What's not? That's what I do in my act, test how other people deal with reality," encapsulates Kaufman's unique comedic style and his fascination with exploring the boundaries of reality in his performances.

Kaufman's act was characterized by his commitment to blurring the lines between truth and fiction, often leaving audiences unsure of what was genuine and what was part of the act. He was known for incorporating elements of absurdity, confusion, and unpredictability into his routines, challenging conventional expectations of comedy and entertainment. By testing how other people deal with reality, Kaufman sought to provoke genuine reactions from his audience, often pushing them out of their comfort zones and forcing them to confront the unpredictability of life.

One of Kaufman's most famous performances was his portrayal of the character "Foreign Man," a naive and bumbling immigrant with a thick accent. This character would go on to evolve into the beloved Latka Gravas on the television show "Taxi." Through this and other characters, Kaufman played with the concept of reality, blurring the boundaries between his on-stage persona and his actual identity. His commitment to these characters was so convincing that many audience members were often left questioning whether his performances were genuine expressions of his personality or elaborate acts of comedic invention.

In addition to his character work, Kaufman was also known for his use of performance art and unconventional comedy tactics. One of his most infamous stunts was the "Inter-Gender Wrestling Championship," in which he would challenge women to wrestling matches, often leading to chaotic and unpredictable outcomes. These performances were designed to provoke reactions from the audience and challenge societal norms, questioning the expectations and assumptions placed on men and women in competitive settings.

Kaufman's approach to comedy was polarizing, as some audiences struggled to understand or appreciate his unconventional style. However, his willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations earned him a dedicated following among those who appreciated his unique perspective on reality and performance. By testing how other people deal with reality, Kaufman forced his audience to confront their own preconceptions and assumptions, often leaving them questioning the nature of truth and authenticity in the world of entertainment.

Ultimately, Andy Kaufman's impact on the comedy world extended far beyond his own performances. His willingness to challenge traditional notions of reality and authenticity paved the way for future comedians and performers to explore new and unconventional approaches to their craft. His legacy continues to inspire artists to push the boundaries of what is considered "real" in performance, encouraging audiences to question their own perceptions and assumptions about the world around them.

In conclusion, Andy Kaufman's quote, "What's real? What's not? That's what I do in my act, test how other people deal with reality," reflects his commitment to challenging conventional notions of reality through his performances. Through his unconventional comedy style, character work, and performance art, Kaufman pushed the boundaries of what was considered "real" in entertainment, leaving a lasting impact on the world of comedy and performance art.