Start of his career.

Yes, and W.C. Fields started out as a juggler; and, due to pure talent, they both rose to the top.

By the way, most classic comics never started out as comedians. The were funny musicians, balloon artists, jugglers or waiters. I don’t think that’s how it is today. Standup has become such a potential fast track to show biz success that I don’t think modern comics have a chance to “break in” their schtick before their first open mine night. Hell, there never used to BE an “open mike night.”