lenny bruce (october 13, 1925 – august 3, 1966), was an american comedian. his real name was leonard alfred schneider. he is considered an innovator of modern stand-up comedy and changed the way many people see comedians. his jokes and routines were very improper and off limits for the time and he got in a lot of trouble for them. he is considered a hero for the defense of the first amendment rights in the united states, especially for free speech.