The term “second banana” originated in the world of vaudeville, a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Vaudeville shows typically featured a variety of acts, including comedians, singers, dancers, and acrobats. In a comedy act, there would often be a trio of performers, with one taking on the role of the “straight man” or the main comedian, and the other two serving as the supporting players.
The expression “second banana” was coined in the 1920s by Harry Steppe, a vaudeville performer. It derives from a specific skit involving the sharing of two bananas among three comedians. The straight man would be given the first banana, while the other two comedians would struggle to divide the remaining banana between them. The second banana would be left with a smaller portion, symbolizing their subordinate role.
The concept of the second banana extends beyond just vaudeville and can be applied to various fields or situations. In comedy, the second banana is often the character who provides support and sets up jokes for the main comedian. They play the role of the “fall guy” or the person who gets the laughs by being the target of jokes or physical comedy. The second banana's purpose is to enhance the comedic effect of the main comedian and make them shine.
Outside of comedy, the term second banana can also be used to describe a supporting or subordinate role in different contexts. For example, in a business setting, the second banana may refer to a person who assists or serves as a right-hand to a more prominent leader or boss. They may take on tasks that support the main person's role and help them be more effective in their position.
Having worked as a sommelier and brewer, I can relate to the concept of being a second banana in the hospitality industry. As a sommelier, my role was to support the main chef or restaurant owner by recommending and pairing wines with their dishes. While the chef was the star of the show, I played a crucial role in enhancing the dining experience for the guests. Similarly, as a brewer, I worked alongside the head brewer, assisting in the brewing process, recipe development, and quality control. My role was vital in ensuring the smooth operation of the brewery, but I always understood that I was serving the main brewer's vision and goals.
The term “second banana” originated from vaudeville and refers to the supporting player or the person who serves the main comedian or leader. It symbolizes a subordinate role and is often associated with providing support, setting up jokes, or assisting the main person in various fields. Whether in comedy or other industries, the second banana plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance or success of the main person or organization.