Sarah Squirm: Guts, Gore, and HBO's New Comedy Star

Sarah Squirm, a familiar face from "Saturday Night Live," is unveiling her debut comedy special, "Live + In The Flesh," on HBO this December 12. This special showcases the absurd, intentionally grating, and often gross stage persona she has cultivated over years of performance. Squirm describes the show as an "assault on the senses," aiming to bring the raw energy of her live shows into viewers' homes.

The special features extensive practical effects, video work, and staging, all created with a DIY, arts-and-crafts aesthetic. Squirm collaborated with director Cody Critcheloe and talented set designers to bring her unique vision to life. Many of the video pieces featured are older works, some created years ago in her garage with minimal budget, now enhanced with professional prosthetics sourced thanks to her SNL experience and resources.

Despite the extreme and often visceral content, Squirm clarifies that no real genitals are displayed in the special, assuring both HBO and potential viewers of this fact. Her journey to this point includes touring extensively and honing her craft, even incorporating advice from comedians like David Spade, demonstrating a blend of raw artistic expression and professional polish.