Lenny Bruce: The Last Convicted Comedian

On the 20th anniversary of his pardon for "word crimes," Lenny Bruce remains an important free speech icon and a hero to comedians everywhere.

FIRE's Chief Counsel Bob Corn-Revere reflects on the legacy of the legendary comedian, as well as his and Ronald K.L. Collins' efforts to secure a posthumous pardon for Bruce — who died penniless of a drug overdose after being convicted for violating New York obscenity and indecency laws.

While the pardon came too late to help Bruce, it is a recognition by the state that criminalizing someone for their speech is a violation of individual rights and free expression.

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