Rob Potylo

About

American musical comedian, performance artist, actor, producer, radio personality, and activist best known for delivering an eccentric stage persona named Robby Roadstearmer. The original character is said to be inspired by various rock music and wrestling stars. His performance combines elements of satire and absurdism with musical comedy. He has released numerous studio albums including "Okay Computer" and "The Heart of a Rhino" and he has toured with a live band. Some of his many television appearances include The Gong Show and Ellen. He has earned recognition for performing at public rallies for social and political causes in playful costumes and made headlines in 2025 when he was detained by U.S. immigration enforcement during protests. He is also the producer and star of a scripted mockumentary-style comedy web and cable series revolving around the underground art and music scene called Quiet Desperation.

Before fame

She initially rose to fame by acting out his persona, Robby Roadsteamer on the WBCN 104.1 FM radio station. He subsequently went on to produce several indie projects before venturing into street performance and online comedy.

Trivia

He won 2nd place at the 2009 Andy Kaufman Awards at Caroline's Comedy Club in New York City, which was judged by several of Kaufman's closest relatives as well as Kristen Schaal. In 2012, he starred as the protégé of anarchist presidential candidate and fellow performance artist Vermin Supreme in the 2014 documentary "Who is Vermin Supreme? An Outsider Odyssey."

Family life

He was born to parents Louis and Patricia Potylo.

Associated with

In 2011, he joined actress and frequent Quiet Desperation guest Jennifer Coolidge at the Wilbur Theatre in Boston, MA to sing "Happy Birthday" to her father.