Bringing down the house, comics react to demolition of old Goodnights location in Raleigh

Years after bringing down the house themselves, some of biggest names in comedy took to social media upon learning of the demolition of Goodnights’ Comedy Club in Raleigh.

Originally opened in 1983, Goodnights has been home to legendary comics like Jerry Seinfeld, Patton Oswalt, Jay Leno and Ellen DeGeneres.

But with plans proceeding to build 865 Morgan, a residential mid-rise building on the site, Goodnights announced the closure of the iconic location in May. Shows continued through July 31 as construction progressed at the new location near the former Village Underground.

As demolition began on the building on West Morgan Street this week, comics who performed there voiced their sadness about the loss of a beloved venue. The club has been at the location since 1983, but the building itself dates back to 1928. It once housed White’s dairy products company and ice cream shop, The News & Observer reported.

Marc Maron, a comedian, actor and podcaster, tweeted “RIP Charlie Goodnights. Raleigh, NC,” Thursday along with an image of the building being torn down.

Oswalt also shared his heartache at the loss of a well-played stage.

Drew Carey joined by tweeting, “Wow. Fond memories.”

Several other comics from across the country have been sharing stories of laughter and on-stage experiences as the last remnants of the original location are torn down.

The current location is in the process of being transformed into a 401-unit apartment complex.

In the interim between the closure of the old venue and the opening of the new space, Goodnights has temporarily set up shop at the former K&W cafeteria in the Village District, where they continue to host live comedy shows.