A Night of Laughter and Recognition as Poppy Champlin Secures Her Place Among RI’s Comedy Greats

Rhode Island’s comedy scene celebrated an unforgettable evening on Saturday, May 20, 2023, as RI comedian Poppy Champlin was officially inducted into the Rhode Island Comedy Hall of Fame. With her impeccable wit, fearless stage presence, and remarkable contributions to the world of comedy, Champlin was honored for her outstanding achievements during a joyous and laughter-filled evening.

Poppy Champlin-RI Comedy Hall of Fame. — Poppy Champlin: Inducted into the RI Comedy Hall of Fame on May 20, 2023.

Held at the historic Park Theatre and Events Center, the induction ceremony showcased the tremendous impact Champlin has had on the comedy industry throughout her 42-year career. Champlin, a native of Narragansett, was warmly received by a packed house consisting of fellow comedians, friends, family, and dedicated fans who have supported her journey from the beginning.

Poppy and Mama Champlin — Poppy poses with her 90-year-old mother at her Hall of Fame induction.

Champlin’s comedic prowess has earned her recognition and admiration far beyond Rhode Island’s borders. Over the years, she has graced the stages of prestigious venues across the country. Her infectious stage presence and magnetic personality have garnered her a dedicated fan base that spans generations.

During the induction ceremony, Champlin graciously accepted the honor, expressing her gratitude to the Rhode Island Comedy Hall of Fame for recognizing her contributions to the craft. In her acceptance speech, she paid tribute to her comedy influences, acknowledged her fellow comedians who have supported and inspired her, and thanked her family and friends for their unwavering support.

Host, Charlie Hall created a comedy atmosphere as only he can do.

The event was filled with heartfelt speeches, uproarious laughter, and fond memories shared by fellow comedians who took the stage to honor Champlin, such as Comedy Hall of Fame members, Charlie Hall, Doreen Collins, and John Perrotta. The induction was performed by comedian and Hall of Fame Founder, Joe Hebert, who recalled seeing Champlin perform in 1981, 4 years before starting his own comedy career.

Champlin’s induction into the Rhode Island Comedy Hall of Fame serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and remarkable achievements within the field. Her presence continues to inspire new comedians, particularly women, to embrace their authentic selves, challenge societal norms, and fearlessly pursue their comedic dreams.

At the end of the evening, Poppy did what she does best. She performed nearly an hour of kickass comedy. “Her performance was outstanding,” Hebert said. “I didn’t expect anything less.”

Poppy clowns around in front of her RI Comedy Hall of Fame caricature.

As the evening concluded, Champlin stood among the greats of Rhode Island comedy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those in attendance. Her legacy as a gifted comedian, advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and an influential figure in the world of comedy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of comedians to find their voice and make a difference through laughter.

Champlin performs before a packed house at her RI Comedy Hall of Fame Induction

Poppy Champlin’s induction into the Rhode Island Comedy Hall of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional talent, significant contributions to comedy, and the immeasurable joy she has brought to audiences throughout her extraordinary career. As the laughter from this historic evening echoes through time, it will serve as a reminder of the lasting impact Champlin has made on the comedy world, forever solidifying her place among the comedic legends of Rhode Island.