Brian Cotnoir

Brian Cotnoir serves as the producer and booker for The George Lucas Talk Show, an improvised comedy program. The show, initially conceived by Connor Ratliff portraying George Lucas, premiered in 2014. It began as a live, monthly stage show at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York City, featuring comedian Shaun Diston as Jar Jar Binks. Later, Griffin Newman joined as Watto. The show evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic, moving to an online format on Planet Scum Live. This transition included a notable 30-hour livestream event where Lucas, Watto, and Cotnoir (acting as an on-air co-host) watched all Star Wars movies chronologically to raise funds for out-of-work UCB Theatre employees. Following a hiatus, the show resumed both live performances and streaming, continuing its fundraising efforts for various charities.

Brian Cotnoir is primarily identified in relation to The George Lucas Talk Show as its producer and booker. He was initially involved with the show as an audience member and a last-minute fill-in warm-up comic during its early stages. Cotnoir's involvement grew, and he became a key figure in organizing and facilitating the show's operations. During the pandemic-induced shift to an online format, Cotnoir took on a more visible role, acting as an on-air co-host alongside Connor Ratliff (as George Lucas) and Griffin Newman (as Watto) during a significant 30-hour livestream marathon. This event involved watching all Star Wars films chronologically to raise money for UCB Theatre employees.

The George Lucas Talk Show began in 2014 as a live, monthly performance at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York City. Hosted by Connor Ratliff, who impersonates George Lucas, the show features interviews with real guests in a panel format, supported by sidekick characters. Initially, Shaun Diston played Jar Jar Binks, and later Griffin Newman took on the role of Watto. The show's format adapted significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning to an online presence on Planet Scum Live. This included a substantial 30-hour livestream event that raised funds for out-of-work theater staff. After a period of hiatus, the show returned to a monthly schedule, encompassing both live theatrical performances across the United States and continued streaming.