Insult comedy is an acquired taste often more enjoyable to other comedians than general audiences. It probably seems obvious on the face of it that you never sit in the front row if you don’t have a thick skin. However, it won’t help you with Triumph. He’ll find you. Whether you’re in a line at a movie premiere, shooting a music video, or attending a political convention. No-one is above being “pooped on” by this clever little hand puppet.

“I appreciate your input.” — Blood Hound Gang

A young Louis C.K. and Robert Smigel in 1993 on Late Night w/ Conan O’Brien. A sign of what was to come as Triumph The Insult Dog would debut on this same show 4 years later on February 13, 1997.

And who’s hand is it? Meet Robert Smigel. Oh, you recognize that face but you can’t remember where from… that’s because you’ve fallen for his rubberized slight of hand like everyone else. We’re just an audience, we see what the cameras show us. But what about behind the scenes?

Created by Smigel and Conan O’Brien, neither could possibly predict the longevity of such an absurd premise. 20 odd years later Triumph is still pooping on those who need to be pooped on. So let’s explore some highlights, the historical moments, the inspirations and the insults that were heard around the world. Expect fowl language, faux-racism, and dirty jokes. Viewer discretion is advised.

Eminem’s “Ass Like That”

“Yes, I have a question. As a dog I must know. What does Dr. Dre’s ass smell like?”

“You’re so cute and small. No wonder Elton John loves you… your head comes up to his waste. ”

“Do you kiss 50 Cent with that mouth?”

“Hey! I’m not your wife! I’m not your wife!”

“The way you shake it. I can’t believe it. I ain’t never seen an ass like that.” — Credits: 2005 Aftermath Entertainment/Interscope Records

Insult comedy is a comedy genre in which the act consists mainly of offensive insults directed at the performer’s audience or other performers.

Some of Triumph’s competition at the talent show for rubber dog puppets. Bet you didn’t know Triumph was only one puppet among many at first. Only one dog was Triumphant.

It all starts with a sketch on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. Triumph’s 1st Appearance in 1997 during a dog “talent” show while competing against a range of other rubber dog puppets playing banjos and performing magic.

Conan: Ladies and gentlemen. Right now we have the winner of the hound group. And this is very exciting. This dog is an insult comic. That’s right. He’s an insult comic. Very rare. here we go.