He plays the straight man to his funny partner.
straight man
idiomA member (of any gender) of a team of comic performers who plays a supporting role by helping to set up jokes and punch lines through engaging in dialog with another comedian playing a more eccentric or otherwise more interesting character; a foil who plays such a role in theatrical comedy.
The comedian told wild stories while his partner acted as the straight man to keep the act grounded.
By serving as the straight man, the actor allowed the lead performer to shine while maintaining the necessary structure for their comedic dialogue.
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be a man
To put up with something or take responsibility for it; to deal with something, such as pain or misfortune, without complaining.
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be one's own man
To behave independently without the influence of others.
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be the bigger man
To walk away from a conflict to prevent it from escalating.
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boldly go where no man has gone before
To break new ground.
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broken man
A man who has suffered significant and enduring emotional pain as a result of a highly unpleasant or traumatic event.
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damn straight
Without doubt, certainly, for sure.
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draw a straight furrow
To live correctly or ethically, without deviating from the right line of duty.
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every man has a price
Everyone can be bribed or corrupted for a certain price.
Last updated April 17, 2026