Steve Martin Returns To Stand-Up For First Time Since 1981

Iconic comedian-turned-actor Steve Martin gave audiences a very special surprise in New York yesterday, when he unexpectedly opened Jerry Seinfeld's show at Beacon Theatre with a short 10-minute set and a little banjo medley. It was Martin's first time performing stand-up in 35 years.

As Vulture reports, the 70-year-old took to the stage with a banjo and opened with, "Thank you. Jerry couldn't make it tonight ... Have a safe ride home! Actually, I'm here tonight because of that old showbiz saying: Never lose a bet to Jerry," in reference to his appearance on Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee.

"I'll be honest with you, right off the top, because I'm a little upset with the Beacon Theatre," was a joke Martin won crowds with. "I was backstage and I used the restroom. And there was a sign that read, 'Employees Must Wash hands. And I could not find one employee to wash my hands."

Another joke Vulture reports: "By the way, I apologise for the ticket prices. I know it seems expensive, because there is like one guy, two guys, and a couple of mics, but it's not that way. There are like four sound people, and two lighting people, and drivers, and wardrobe people, and catering, and someone to walk Jerry's Fitbit around. A celebrity look-alike, in case Steve doesn't feel like going on. Steve says hi, by the way."

Later in the night, Seinfeld reportedly said in his own performance, "That is really the thrill of my career."

As of late, the Jack-of-all-trades has been writing a Broadway show titled Bright Star, has also recorded an album with Edie Brickell called So Familiar and is touring with bluegrass band Steep Canyon Rangers. Let's hope stand-up is next on Martin's 2016 to-do list.