Fame
For 99.9% of all comics, fame isn't a remote possibility. It isn't even about luck of the draw as much as it is for an actor—there are plenty of starving actors who are pretty talented, and might be able to give Phillip Seymour Hoffman a run for his money if given the chance. Not the case with comics. The funniest comics tend to rise to the top of the heap—the problem is that there aren't very many who are truly hilarious, and it's an awfully big heap.
If you are one of the lucky—and talented—0.1%, then there is plenty opportunity for fame that awaits you. Movie deals, sitcoms, stand-up specials on HBO or Comedy Central…you might even be asked to host the Oscars one day. But only if Billy Crystal ever dies.