Now, you might be thinking, "You might be a redneck if you’re a fan of Jeff Foxworthy’s," but here's the thing—being a fan doesn't mean you have to be one. Jeff Foxworthy, with his trademark humor, has sold more than 13 million albums, officially becoming the biggest-selling comedy artist of all time. "My wife said, 'You’re probably always going to have that record, because nobody buys albums anymore,'" Jeff, now 61, exclusively told Closer, laughing it off.
But here's the kicker: Jeff Foxworthy is not just a stand-up comedian. He's also an author, a television host, and a family man. He's headlining sold-out tours, writing best-selling books, and hosting hit TV shows like Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? and his latest A&E venture, What’s It Worth? Through it all, he’s managed to stay grounded as a husband to Pamela Gregg, his partner of nearly 35 years, and father to their daughters, Jules and Jordan.
What keeps him grounded? Well, Jeff credits NASCAR legend Richard Petty with a piece of wisdom: "Don’t outgrow your raisins," which is a Southern way of saying, "Remember where you come from." Jeff shares, "I’m still that kid from that little Georgia town. My best friend from fifth grade is my manager. I’ve worked hard, but I don’t need much. Coming from a dirt-yard childhood, I look back and think, 'Wow, this life has been incredible!'"
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Scroll down to check out Closer’s exclusive Q&A with Jeff Foxworthy.
Hey Jeff, How’s Life Treating You?
Well, life’s been treating me great. We’ve got a farm about an hour south of Atlanta, and during the first big wave of the pandemic, we spent nine glorious weeks there. You know, I don’t think in my adult life I’ve ever gone 14 days without hopping on a plane! It was probably the best two months of my life, just being still and taking a breather.
Jim Gaffigan Feels the Same Way.
Absolutely! There are certain people—Jim, Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Brian Regan—who, no matter what else we do, will always be stand-up comedians at heart. My ultimate goal wasn’t to be on a sitcom or a TV show, so all the other opportunities have been pure bonus.
It’s Been a Wild Ride Lately, Right?
You’re telling me. Comics are supposed to be the last bastion of truth, holding up a mirror and saying, "Isn’t this weird?" So, in a time when we’re needed the most, we’re unable to do what we do best. I was supposed to do a Netflix special, but unless a vaccine comes along… you see, when you laugh, you’re expelling things out of your mouth, so we might be the last ones allowed back on stage.
