
In an Instagram post from earlier this week, Laughing Skull Lounge’s founder, Marshall Chiles announced the news that Laughing Skull as we know it will be leaving The Vortex on June 9th, 2025.
He said on Instagram,
After 16 unforgettable years inside The Vortex, it’s time for a new chapter. At the request of The Vortex’s new ownership, my team and I will be moving on–and the new owners will be taking over comedy operations starting June 9th, 2025.
What does this mean for Laughing Skull Lounge?
Basically, Laughing Skull Lounge will still be open in The Vortex, but not as we know it today. The founder and team will be exploring other comedy avenues in the city.
Chiles says,
This isn’t goodbye–it’s just the beginning. We’re already working on opening new comedy clubs throughout the city. Big things are coming.
Taco Mac, which bought out The Vortex last year, after nearly 30 years in the city, will now be managing ‘Laughing Skull Lounge.’
Many people lamented the loss in the comments of the instagram post, saying things like “First stage for a lot of us. Love y’all.” and “Incredible memories!! Thank you for everything you’ve done for Atlanta comedy.”

Will there be any more shows at Laughing Skull Lounge with the same management before they close?
Yes! Comedy fans can be excited for a few more shows at Laughing Skull.
The final show at this iconic location will be on June 8th, 2025. The team will also replace all of their open mics with ‘Best of Atlanta’ stand up “so our comedians can enjoy that stage under out ownership one more time.”
If you wanna come down and see the end (and beginning!) of an era, head to Laughing Skull’s website to snag your tickets.