Laugh fest to return to Chicago

NEW YORK -- TBS and Montreal's Just for Laughs are bringing back their Chicago comedy festival for its second year this summer.

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Among performers on the early talent lineup unveiled Tuesday are Ellen DeGeneres, Cedric the Entertainer, Denis Leary, Russell Peters, Greg Giraldo, Jim Norton, Aziz Ansari and Bob Odenkirk.

The TBS Presents a "Very Funny" Festival: Just For Laughs event will take place at key Chicago venues June 15-19.

TBS plans three TV specials from the event, including "Ellen's Somewhat Special," her fourth variety show for TBS; "Cedric the Entertainer's Urban Circus" (working title); and a third show to be announced at a later date.

Odenkirk will be on "The Not Inappropriate Show," a sketch show for kids. Among the performers are Kate Micucci and members of The Groundlings and Upright Citizen's Brigade.

Leary brings "The Rescue Me Comedy Tour" to the festival, while Russell Peters will present "The Green Card Tour."

Giraldo will host "The Nasty Show" with special guest Norton. And Ansari will bring his "Dangerously Delicious" tour to Chicago.

Also part of the laugh festival will be Lucha VaVoom, a comedy/wrestling show with burlesque and variety acts from around the globe.