LOS ANGELES, March 3 (UPI) -- Ventriloquist Jeff Dunham says embracing the Internet rather than fighting it has proven to be a big boost for his career.
Dunham told USA Today in Los Angeles that even if his jokes are readily available on the Internet free of charge, it hasn't cut into his drawing power at clubs across the United States.
Online "is not live entertainment," said Dunham. "People will still pay dollars to come see live."
Dunham can back up his contention with his ranking as the No. 1 touring comedian in the nation, Pollstar magazine said. Dunham is grossing more -- $12.5 million last year -- and selling more tickets than any other comic on the circuit.
He is also a hit online, USA Today said. His routines with characters such as grouchy Walter and Peanut are widely available and a particular bit with Achmed the Dead Terrorist has nearly 150 million views.
Dunham said the online presence seems to have actually helped his live performances, particularly overseas where he sold out an Easter show in Finland.
"Stand-up comedy is tough right now," he said. "Anybody can come to a concert, tape you, and put you up on the Internet. You either fight it or embrace it."
