[neverending]

Since there have been comedians they have been "borrowing" material from each other. The classic comedians used to joke about it. When one of them went to see the other they'd say "You'll hear that in MY act next week." Jokes and stories would pass through several comedians, each one of them adding their own style or outlook to it.

Leary & hicks had similar styles, and dealt with some of the same topics. I think it's only natural one would hear something in the other's act he want to try out and see what he could do with it. I don't think it makes Leary any less original. He has plenty of cred to his name.

In the 60's every comedian who did impressions did Ed Sullivan.Would you hear similarities in their acts? Sure. Did they watch and borrow from each other? Sure. If you watch comedy showcases today often enough you'll start to hear some of the same material. Who makes it work the best? Not always the one who may have originated the bit.

It's not something I'd lose any sleep over.