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From redhead to comedian
`Carrot Top' to perform this year at county fair

By Aldrich Tan Staff writer

September 13, 2005

Scott "Carrot Top" Thompson loves performing at county fairs - even if they do sell cholesterol-filled, deep-fried Twinkies.

"A Twinkie is bad enough in itself," said the wild-maned comedian, who'll appear this week at the Tulare County Fair. "But it doesn't kill you fast enough. So they deep-fry it!"

Thompson said he genuinely likes performing at county fairs, however. Smaller towns have their own special appeal, he said.

"People are so excited in smaller towns to see you," he said. "And they are so grateful for the performance."

Thompson said he comes from a small town, Cocoa Beach, Fla. There he endured bullying for being a redhead, Thompson said.

"I told my mom that I would bleach my hair blond so I could fit in," he said. "I never did it, but I always threatened to. When you're a little kid, you just want to be normal."

Thompson said he survived his childhood tauntings by becoming the class clown.

"People are going to make fun of me anyway, so I decided to take control and make fun of myself first," he said.

As a professional comedian, Thompson tours nationwide. He's also made dozens of television appearances, including those once-ubiquitous AT&T commercials.

Jane Quebe, marketing representative for the Tulare County Fair, said she's looking forward to Carrot Top's live performance.

"We're excited about bringing comedy to the fair this year," she said. "Comedy has broad audience appeal."

Thompson said he uses a lot of props in his act. He works out at the local gym every day to prepare for shows.

"The more in shape you are, the less likely you get

See Carrot/3D

How to attend

What: Carrot Top at Tulare County Fair

When: 8 p.m. Thursday

Where: Budweiser Stage (close to the K Street entrance)

Tickets: Free with paid admission

Information: 686-4707 or www.tularefair.org.
Section: Living
Page: 1D