but seriously, folks

but seriously, folks

A statement meant to draw an audience's attention to a point one wishes to make (which may or may not be serious in nature), often used as a segue after a joke, aside, or something that is non-relevant. I just flew in from Miami, and boy are my arms tired! But seriously, folks, how is everyone tonight? I like a good cheeseburger as much as the next guy, but seriously, folks, does anyone really need one that weighs three pounds?
See also: but, folk
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • folk
  • seriously
  • that brings me to the point
  • crack a joke
  • rivet (one's) attention (on someone or something)
  • rivet attention
  • riveting
  • I mean
  • meanwhile, back at the ranch
  • in on the joke