David Steinberg, a quietly cerebral performer known for his slow, methodical cadence and Groucho Marx-inspired penchant for iconoclasm and whimsy, became a prominent comedic voice thanks to his clever blend of wit and irreverence. Born in Winnipeg, Canada, Steinberg's journey into comedy was as much shaped by his early life as by the times he lived in. His father, once a rabbi, earned a living as a grocer, instilling in Steinberg a rich understanding of Jewish culture and tradition. Initially, Steinberg pursued theology in Israel before shifting his academic focus at the University of Chicago, where he earned a master's degree in English literature. His move into the world of entertainment began with The Second City in 1964, where his talents flourished in improvisational comedy. He was also part of "The Mad Show" off-Broadway and appeared in several Broadway productions, carving a niche for himself in the realm of acting before venturing into stand-up comedy. In the summer of 1968, Steinberg developed his now-famous mock sermons at The Bitter End. These performances showcased his unique style, combining enunciated lectures on Biblical figures with whimsical, Marxian asides. A notable part of his act was a Groucho Marx-inspired routine where he acted as a madcap psychiatrist, delivering the mystifying cry "Booga Booga" to the bewildered audience. Steinberg's "subversive" humor often drew controversy, as evidenced by his appearances on "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour." CBS shut down the show after one of his monologues on April 6, 1969, which humorously examined the story of Jonah from a different perspective. Reflecting the societal tensions of that era, this incident underscored his role as a fearless provocateur in comedy. His television debut marked the start of a successful career in comedy, where his quiet monologist style won him a loyal following. Steinberg's distinctive physical presence, characterized by his slight build, mop of black hair, and a notable scar on his chin from childhood, added to his persona. His comedy often blended personal anecdotes with sharp observations on Jewish identity and secular life. His musings ranged from humorous takes on self-image, such as his struggle with guilt over being "bad" at masturbation, to sharp satirical jabs, like comparing President Nixon’s face to a foot. Steinberg's humor captivated audiences, much like contemporaries Woody Allen and Dick Cavett, resonating with those who appreciated his thoughtful, measured delivery and nuanced wordplay. Despite his soft-spoken manner, his performances were punctuated by moments of vivid imagery and clever insights. One classic routine humorously narrated a sexual encounter with an air-headed girl, illustrating his knack for painting detailed and humorous scenes. By the 1980s, Steinberg had become a mainstay on talk shows and had ventured behind the scenes, directing TV commercials and films such as "Paternity" and "Going Berserk." While his onstage presence waned over the years, his influence persisted, and his work continued to resonate with audiences who appreciated comedy that challenged, entertained, and, most importantly, made them think.