While he may be best known for his role on The Howard Stern Show, Artie Lange got his start in stand-up and sketch comedy. His career really took off when became an original cast member on MADtv in 1995. When his work caught the eye of comedian Norm MacDonald, he was offered a role in the 1998 movie Dirty Work. He subsequently joined the cast of The Norm Show during its second season and stayed until its cancellation the following year. In 1996, Lange also wrote, produced and starred in the film Beer League.

Lange joined The Howard Stern Show in 2001, replacing Jackie Martling. Barring several hiatuses, Lange continues to work on the show today. He also co-wrote a book with Anthony Bozza, titled Too Fat to Fish, which was released in November, 2008.