Over the years, many of America’s top comedians have traveled from afar to entertain Iowans at Stephens Auditorium, but Friday night the venue will play host to the biggest comedy show in its history.

Stand-up comedian Ron White’s sold-out “You Can’t Fix Stupid” tour has sold 2,735 seats and dethroned Bill Cosby as the biggest-selling comedian in the history of the venue.

Cosby’s 1998 performance held the record, selling 2,554 seats.

Other recent high-selling comedians include George Carlin in January 2004, selling 1,850 seats and Weird Al in February 2000, selling 2,361 seats, according to Angela Ossian, director of marketing for the Iowa State Center.

According to an Iowa State Center press release, White’s live show is not for the faint of heart – much of his act caters to mature audiences.

The comedian became famous when he toured with Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall and Larry The Cable Guy on “The Blue Collar Comedy Tour” from 2000 to 2003, grossing over $15 million.

According to the Comedy Central Web site, White’s 2004 comedy special, “They Call Me Tater Salad,” drew more than 3.3 million viewers, giving the station the highest-rated Sunday in its history.

In an interview with “Get Out!” White said he doesn’t think the material for “You Can’t Fix Stupid” is very funny, but critics seem to agree that it’s his best work yet.

“It’s not funny to me because I wrote it. It’s like saying ‘orange’ too many times. I look at my fat [butt] and weird eyebrows,” said White, “but everyone says it’s my best one.”

For those who weren’t fortunate enough to purchase a ticket to the Friday show before it sold out, “You Can’t Fix Stupid” will air on Comedy Central in March.