Chapter 48
GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS
If there’s an upside to being fired from my own sitcom, it’s that I have all the time in the world to go to that library lunch sponsored by the Books of Hope charity.
Of course, there’s also a downside: I have to explain to Uncle Frankie why I’m totally free for the day.
“They did the impossible,” I tell him when we’re in his van the next day, on our way to the library gig. “They replaced me. Jamie Funnie is being done without Jamie Grimm.”
“No way.”
“Way.”
“We should go straight to the BNC headquarters building in Manhattan,” says Uncle Frankie. “Threaten them with all sorts of bad publicity!”
“Can we just go entertain the kids at the library instead?”
Uncle Frankie glances over at me and smiles. “Sure thing, kiddo.”
Suddenly, my phone starts chirping.
It’s Mr. Wetmore, the technical director on the Jamie Funnie show.
“Hey, Jamie. Hope I didn’t catch you at a bad time.”
“No, sir. We’re on our way to the Long Beach Public Library to entertain some really cool kids.”
“Sounds like fun, but you need to come back to Silvercup Studios today. Three o’clock sharp.”
“Why? Does Ms. Wilder still want my sweater-vest? Because I told her yesterday, it’s not a costume, it’s just what I wear, even though nobody else has worn a puffy vest since, like, 1986.”
Mr. Wetmore laughs. “No, Jamie. This has nothing to do with your wardrobe. It’s an audition.”
“For what?”
“For you. Jacky Hart and I made a few calls. Mr. Amodio is willing to give you another chance.”
“Seriously?”
“I told him my own daughter wouldn’t watch the show if you weren’t in it. Jacky told him you’re made for live TV. You’re on at three, Jamie.”
“We’ll be there!”
“What’s up?” asks Uncle Frankie when I thumb off my phone.
“Do you believe in miracles?” I say.
“Hey, I’m looking at you, aren’t I?” Then he reaches over and tousles my hair.
I love when he does that.
“Mr. Wetmore arranged an audition for me. For Jamie Funnie!”
“Excellent,” says Uncle Frankie. “For what part?”
“I’m not sure. Maybe Jillda Jewel.”
Uncle Frankie is cracking up. “Come on. Let’s go warm up your funny bones!”
We pull into the library parking lot and roll up the handicapped ramp.
It’s showtime.
