Comedy fans are being invited to gather in Howell tonight to cheer on John Heffron, who is one of three finalists competing on NBC's “Last Comic Standing.''

Heffron grew up in the South Lyon area in Oakland County. His family now lives in Fowlerville.

Heffron's father says his son has always been a comedian. He says John entertained customers with jokes over the PA system at the grocery store where he worked as a teenager.

“Last Comic Standing'' is like “American Idol,” without all the singing.

Heffron will match jokes with Alonzo Bodden and Gary Gulman, then viewers nationwide will vote by phone or Internet for their favorite.

The winner will be crowned Thursday night.