For Kathleen Madigan, the middle is just fine

Midwest comedian’s irreverent humor is showcased in new Prime Video special.

- By ALI LERMAN

IN HER special "The Family Thread," Kathleen Madigan takes on relative chaos.

Comedian Kathleen Madigan hardly needs an introduction to anyone who’s paid attention to stand-up over the last several decades.

A master of timing with a Midwestern sensibility, Madigan has built a career by keeping it simple: write, tour, record, repeat. She's not looking to headline on Mars, she’s perfectly content in her own lane.

That lane of hers has been a busy one over the years though, hitting late-night stage after stage, selling out theaters nationwide, and snagging a die-hard fan base that is all ears any time she grabs a mic. Or a barstool. Her hit podcast “Madigan’s Pubcast” only adds to the proof.

On Nov. 21, Madigan returned with “The Family Thread” on Prime Video, a fresh and all-too-relatable hour that’s unmistakably Madigan. Laid-back, smart, unfiltered and brutally funny as she takes on everything from chaotic family texts and Midwest quirks to aging parents, savage cats and the fine art of having zero pride.

Never needing to chase trends or reinvent herself for an algorithm, Madigan built her career the old-fashioned way — one stage at a time. But she’s got some questions for those who chase instant success, along with a convincing case for why staying in the middle might just be the real sweet spot.

“The Family Thread” is so great because it really makes you think of yourself and our own families in so many ways, all while you’re pretty much roasting yours.