Weird: The Al Yankovic Story

A quick-witted, relentlessly inventive musician who turns popular songs into playful parodies. He battles early career rejection and his father's disapproval, channeling humor into a bold artistic rebellion. Guided by Dr. Demento, he embraces a larger-than-life persona that fuels a meteoric rise and creates a new template for comedy music.

A loving, supportive mother who secretly buys Al his first accordion, nurturing his talent behind a veil of family caution. Her warmth contrasts with the stern, skeptical father, providing emotional grounding during Al's tumultuous ascent.

A stern, cautious father who disapproves of Al's unconventional path. He later reveals a secret past connected to accordion-playing, offering a quieter, sometimes humorous explanation for his wariness and a bridge to Al's eventual reconciliation with his family.

An eccentric radio DJ and manager who spots Al's talent and pushes him toward the Weird Al persona. He orchestrates unusual opportunities and odd detours, including a memorable (and hallucinogenic) guacamole moment that catalyzes a key parody. His mentorship helps shape Al's career and public image.

The iconic pop star who becomes entangled in Al's rising fame, flirting with a parody of her hits to drive the ‘Yankovic bump.’ Their romance destabilizes boundaries and fuels the pressure to deliver original material, while masking a larger conspiracy around his influence.

A self-aware performer who embodies the on-stage persona while steering the creative output behind the scenes. He balances comedic risk with audience expectations, ensuring parodies land with impact.

The pre-fame version of Al, discovering the talent for transforming songs into parodies. His early curiosity and comedic instincts set the stage for the later, bigger career arc.

A minor but memorable figure in the biker-bar scene, representing the rough-edged environment where Al tests his parodies and improvises onstage.

A host who helps set the tempo of the performance scene, amplifying the chaotic energy that accompanies Al's rising fame.

A media figure who amplifies Al's fame through coverage and public discourse, reflecting the era's sensational press culture.

One of Al's early performance collaborators who helps flesh out the parody act and contributes to the live show energy.

Another early collaborator providing musical support and comic timing, part of the live-act dynamic that drives the early success.