Trevor McFedries

Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Da'Vine Joy Randolph has some copper cookware she wants to recommend. Amy hangs with the Oscar-winning actress and talks about what kitchenware is currently on her wish list, how Miss Piggy shaped her, and being up on a ladder with Al Pacino. Host: Amy Poehler Guests: David Freyne and Da'Vine Joy Randolph Executive producers: Bill Simmons, Amy Poehler, and Jenna Weiss-Berman For Paper Kite Productions: Executive producer Jenna Weiss-Berman, coordinator Sam Green, and supervising producer Joel Lovell For The Ringer: Supervising producers Juliet Litman, Sean Fennessey, and Mallory Rubin; video producers Jack Wilson and Aleya Zenieris; audio producer Kaya McMullen; social producer Bridget Geerlings; video editor Drew van Steenbergen; and booker Kat Spillane Original music: Amy Miles Hilton. For the Stay. https://www.hilton.com/ This episode is brought to you by Subaru. Love goes the extra mile in a long-range Subaru Hybrid…with up to 597 miles per tank in the Crosstrek Hybrid and up to 581 in the Forester Hybrid. Visit subaru.com/hybrid to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Published May 12, 2026
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0:00-1:28

[00:00] This episode is brought to you by Allstate. Checking Allstate first could save you hundreds on car insurance. Not checking your pockets before putting clothes in the washer? [00:09] Oof. Enjoy your freshly cleaned and completely destroyed earbuds. Yeah, checking first is a good plan. So check Allstate first for an auto quote. It could save you hundreds. You're in good hands with Allstate. Potential savings vary subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate North American Insurance Company and affiliates, Northbrook, Illinois. [00:29] . [00:34] Hello, everyone. Welcome to another episode of Good Hang. We are going to talk today to Dave Vine Joy Randolph, and I am really, really excited. I'm such a fan of her work, and we are going to get into it today. We're going to talk about opera. We're going to talk about musical theater. We're going to talk about how to do a good Boston accent, and we're going to hear... [00:53] Al Pacino made her cry in a good way. So it's a great convo and I can't wait to get started. But before we do, we always talk to somebody who knows our guest and has a question to ask our guest. And joining me today is the director of the film Eternity, a film that Dave Mine is in. And I believe he is calling from... [01:19] Another country. He's zooming from another country, another time zone. So let's see. It's David Frayn joining us. David. [01:27] Can you hear us?

1:35-3:27

[01:35] This episode is presented by Hilton. Guys, you know what vacation perfectionism is? It's the pressure to get your family's summer vacation booked and make it perfect and memorable. Stressful, right? Don't worry, because the team at Hilton takes care of what matters so you can exhale and disconnect. They've got over 9,000 hotels around the world, including amazing resorts and all-inclusive options. So you'll definitely find the stay that you're looking for. When you want your summer vacation to feel like a vacation, it matters where you stay. [02:05] Book now at Hilton.com. Hilton for this day. [02:23] So good to meet you. [02:25] We're talking to Dave Vine today and, um, [02:28] You know, it's fun because Devon, I have to say, is one of – I really don't know very much about her. We've never met. And we have – [02:38] friends in common and people in common in, but I've only kind of watched her as a fan and watched her stuff. Um, [02:45] So I'm interested to get to know her today and to talk about her today. But before we do that, I just wanted to say congratulations on your film. And it's, you know, I'm always looking for comedy in theaters and in film. [03:01] It's been not, to be very honest, like not always the easiest genre the last decade to get good things out in the world. And comedy is like music. It's so subjective. It's people have big, strong opinions about it. How where did you where were your comedic influences? Like when you started writing and directing, who were you looking to at the time? I grew up loving like Billy Wilder was my idol. So in.

3:27-5:00

[03:27] And then like, I mean, 30 Rock and Parks and Rec and those great iconic kind of TV comedies were where you get such a high joke rate per minute, which I think we don't get very often. So I always look to that. I think with Eternity, we wanted to make sure it was like laid down with jokes, just like joke after joke after joke. Because I kind of I miss really hard comedy. [03:57] wants, but that's the delivery. That's the actors. And, and, you know, some, some of the best dramatic actors in the world cannot land a joke. And I think that holy grail. Well, they better not. I mean, God is fair. [04:09] You can't do it all. Before we get to Dave, I have one last question and feel we can always, if it's too personal, of course we can lose it. But, um, you shared a really, um, personal and intense story about your [04:27] and tied to the bigger idea that you're writing about. Yeah. So in the summer, like about six months ago, I had really bad headaches, which I had during the production as well. Like I would work really hard and then collapse on the weekends, but I got tired. [04:41] They found an apple-sized... [04:44] tumour in my head that I've kind of [04:47] kind of broken through my brain and surrounded my optic nerves and carotid arteries. And like, it was, it was a really surreal, devastating thing to go through. And, um,

5:00-6:55

[05:00] At the start, they didn't know if it was going to be kind of operable or malignant. And my immediate thoughts were like, I'm not going to get to see Eternity released, which is such a vague thing to say, but, you know, after so many years. But, you know, I had incredible care and doctors and incredible family and my partner. And it's, you know, slowly it's gotten better. And I've had a great, great outcome from the surgery. And. [05:27] I will say having gone through that in the last few months, I, [05:32] After making a film set in the afterlife, I felt quite contented. Like I felt... [05:39] I felt I was looking at that with a lot more curiosity than fear. I think had, you know, I think I would have been much more afraid had it happened before the film. And I think just the experience of making the film was so fun and joyous. And I think the the the things we spoke about with with Divine and the cast and my passion just like as well, like even just not just the work you want to do, but the people you want to spend your time with and the people you want to work with. [06:09] people that share your kind of passions. I think that that becomes much more important because you don't really have time for arseholes. No, I also don't have time for assholes either. Yeah. Yeah. Assholes are arseholes. They're the worst. So tell me about working with Dayvine. [06:26] How does she like to work? Because we're talking to her today and she's quite studied. I mean, she has done a ton of she's like like a student in voice and acting. She really knows her stuff. Yeah, she's she's she's extraordinary. I think I think what really struck me, firstly, I was we were desperate to work with her and I really wanted her for the role. And then she won her Oscar. And I was really bummed because I thought now I won't get to work with her. But thankfully, she still wants to do the film.

6:56-8:36

[06:56] But yeah, she's had the most... [06:59] incredibly varied career from opera to theater to, to then finding acting. And, and it, it does feel like she can do anything. I mean, [07:10] You know, we knew, even though The Holdover is such a dramatic role, we knew she'd be really funny. But, like, she might be the most naturally gifted comedian I've ever worked with. She's extraordinary. And it does feel effortless to her. Like, it doesn't feel like she has, like, annoyingly, she seems to not have any of the... [07:30] anguish and anxiety that most comedians I know have. She just is brilliant, and I think she maybe kind of slightly knows she's brilliant. Yes. Yeah, she's extraordinary. She comes to set... [07:45] I'd cut us to everything with such... [07:48] a weird level of calm. She's completely unflappable, which I, like she could come, like the set could be on fire and she'll just be like, okay, hey Dave, what's going on? Are we going to evacuate or are we going to shoot? Like she's just extraordinary. Like, oh, I want to talk to her about that. That's really interesting. Like nothing seems to either, either she hides it very well or nothing fazes her. [08:10] Or, which I find fascinating because I'm phased by most things. Yeah, she's... [08:17] She is like she can kind of she's one of those people that I would put no limits on. I think she can do I think she can do anything as as a performer, as an actor, as a comedian. Yeah, it's kind of almost infuriating how good she is. To be that good of an actor and to also be funny is amazing.

8:37-10:07

[08:37] It's not nice. It's not nice for the rest of everybody, you know, like. It's not fair. So I would love to ask you, as I have Dave Vine here today, is there a question about [08:49] You think I should ask her big or small, specific or small? [08:54] you know, existential, something that a story that you think she might want to tell or something that you have yet to know about her that you'd like to have answered? I mean, I really want to know two things is one is where did the calm she has come from? Because it's so it's so admirable to me. And I don't I don't think you can be born with that. It's something else. And the other thing is, because she's had such a varied career is when did she [09:24] Like, when did she discover she was a comedian? Because it's not like she didn't do sketch comedy, really, or stand up. Like, when did she know she had that gift? Was that later in life that she was like, oh, I'm really funny. Maybe I'll try that. So they're the two things I'd love to know because I haven't got that out of her. Great questions, both. I love to ask this to people when I'm on Zoom with them and they have books behind them. [09:54] I don't know what the title is. [09:56] What the title is. Yeah. Oh, I'm going to pick this one because my sister-in-law wrote it, The Boldness of Betty. Oh, The Boldness of Betty?

10:07-11:47

[10:07] It's an amazing series of kind of YA books. They're beautiful. Always looking for a new book. Thank you for that, Rick. Yeah. And also, I just got to check to make sure those books are real. [10:20] No, I actually can't read. [10:24] Yeah, just covers. It's just the covers and the inside. There's VHS inside. [10:30] Yeah, perfect, perfect. Thank you so much, David. Such a pleasure talking to you. Thanks for your time. Thank you so much. Have a lovely day. Yeah, you too. Bye-bye. [10:40] This episode is brought to you by Subaru. For me, going the extra mile means taking the long way home. [10:50] journey, suddenly you're on a new street, then your ice cream is melted in the back and, you know, we've solved the meaning of life. But luckily... [10:57] In my Subaru Hybrid, that's right, I have one and I love it. That extra mile is built right in with longer range and better fuel efficiency than ever before. The Subaru Forester Hybrid and the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Great cars. I have them both. Love goes the extra mile. Visit Subaru.com slash hybrid to learn more. [11:22] Davine, we're talking about sparkling water. We're talking about water, and you love sparkling water. I love sparkling water. Me too, and why can't we drink it anymore? You said we can't drink it anymore. My doctor said I'm on the verge of having a hernia. Because of so much of the, like, bubbles and the alkaline, it's salt and stuff in it. But you said something that you said, that's my coffee. That is my coffee in the morning. That's my cocktail. That's my cocktail.

11:50-13:25

[11:50] and it's like psst [11:52] I know. Yeah. It does squeeze a little lime in there. And you know, it's fascinating how in Europe they have percentages. Mm hmm. [12:02] A fist? Don't even get me started. Also, how do you feel about your sparkling water? Because I get the big bottles, but then I only drink like half of it, and then it's done. It's dead. [12:13] Mm-hmm. A dead spark of water is my- [12:22] Twist it up. Yeah, really. Cover it up. Broke. Like I was about to cut my fingers. Super tight. Put that bad boy back in the fridge. I put my seltzer waters in a wine cooler chest. I have a wine cooler chest. This is how much I revere. Me too. I completely, completely to me in the same way one would be like, oh, no, I got to make sure that there's wine in my fridge. I panic if there's not a sparkling water situation in my fridge. [12:52] to get [12:53] the boxes of. Right. I have fought many clerks in Bristol Farms because they're like, no, no, ma'am, you can't take that whole box. And I'm like, then you shouldn't have had it out here. Also, have you ever been real bougie and ordered it from... [13:10] Oh, I don't know, like a delivery service. And then all of a sudden you get the heaviest box that you got to carry in your house and it's filled with sparkling water. That's success. Is if you're on Postmates and you tell them to get the water for you and you want the 33.5 fluid ounces.

13:26-15:12

[13:26] And they'll show up with a 22 or a 16. And I'm like, you should have called me. Yeah. Because then I would have said, yeah, don't get them. Or how many of the 33 did you have for? OK, just get those and then go to the next Bristol farms and get the other ones. I found out recently you can't get light bulbs delivered anymore. Why? They won't take the risk. Like, they're like, they're like, it's going to show. They're like, it's going to break. And it's like, what? What? [13:54] What do you mean? People are getting soft down here. I don't like that. Light bulbs? It's not even on. I mean, I have to say, I do love ordering things and then, like, [14:05] putting it out of my mind. And then when a package comes, I'm like, what is this? [14:10] And I think I'm like, what is it? What is it? What could it be? And then I open it up and it's like the best Christmas ever. No, it's the best. It's the spatula that I wanted. Yes. That I ordered. [14:20] Two days ago. Yeah. And it shows up and you're like, oh my gosh, I was literally in Costco yesterday and I was going past the, the mixers, but right. Like the, the mixers, what is that? [14:35] Kitchenware, tableware. I went past and I was like, gosh, it's on sale. I want one. [14:41] And I literally remembered... [14:44] Because life is lifing. No, no, no, babes. You ordered one for Black Friday already. And I literally almost cried with excitement. I couldn't believe it. I was like, I got one already. It was crazy. That's how weird life is right now. I love kitchen gear so much. So much. It's like a treat. Sometimes I'll go past the wall of gadgets. I'm like, okay, I have a garlic press. I have a wooden mallet. Okay, I have a zester.

15:14-16:49

[15:14] my collection and then i'm big on aesthetics so the mixer i got have you seen it it's like the limited collection from william and sonoma not a sponsor okay talk me through this what you got hunter green with a dark mahogany wood mixing bowl holy shit a wooden oh wow so we're talking [15:44] a red one in Costco. Like, Oh geez, I wish I had one. Oh, this is very, a very good one. I remember that I have that bad boy on this way. I can't believe you forgot that you ordered this. And do you see why I almost cried in Costco? Cause I was like, you're going to get better than that. [16:00] Before we get into, we haven't started yet, but before I also, so then I'm about to really knock your socks off. I've been wanting these pots and pans. Standby. For generations. And this is about to be good. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. [16:14] and Sonoma. Now, they... You're crushing it at William and Sonoma. Just put in... [16:18] heritage copper oh you got me right there hands i don't know you got me right there it's this italian company i think it's with an r copper cookware [16:30] fuck I love cookware I could talk about cookware all day long um let's see what do we got here roofoni yes baby okay for those who don't know these are we're looking at a copper pan with a silver stainless steel inside yep historical hammered copper 11 piece set

16:50-18:28

[16:50] Guess what? Originally $2,000. Our price, $1549. Why would you not buy that? And the price is in red, so I got to get it. I have to get it because it's supposed to be sold out and no more. Trust and believe I got that 11 piece. Absolutely. I'm going to get it. I'm going to pass that down to my children. Like, it's so beautiful. It's made in Italy. Like, what? [17:20] it okay no problem dave i enjoy randolph is here oh my god we just got right into it we already have all our cookware for i'm getting every please and i trust your taste please text it to me [17:31] And I want to see like your first meal. [17:34] I want to see your first meal made. And I'm literally tearing up. Do you love to cook? I love to cook. And I talked about this on the podcast a little bit. I came late to cooking. I did not grow up cooking. And my mom always is like, I cooked. But my mom was a working mom who, um, your parents, teachers. Yeah. So are mine. Yeah. So like she cooked. But yeah, but it was like, she didn't cook like holidays, maybe. Yeah. She showed out. Yeah. And she was [18:04] I'm just not going to be able to cook. Yeah. And I learned and now I love it. Well, I actually, this is going to dovetail into the theme that I wanted to talk to you about today because I'm, I'm really impressed. I, [18:15] I think you're so talented. Thank you. And so naturally talented and so such a good actress and so funny. And those and and such a good singer. Like you do so many things so well. Thanks. And.

18:28-20:00

[18:28] Your career is a lot of like... [18:31] I'm going to try that. A lot of, maybe I should try that. No, hold on. What's over here? Maybe I should try that. Still. Still. Cooking. [18:42] Yeah. Why not? Right. Yeah. So... [18:46] A lot of people... [18:47] know you as an actress, but I don't think as many people know that you first kind of entered the world of arts as a singer. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And that was where that was kind of like the door you walked through. Yep. I liked it. I like to ask this to people who have beautiful voices. When did you [19:04] When did you know you had a good voice? When did you hear it for the first time or someone say you have a good voice? When was the first time I heard it? Yeah, I didn't know. I thought that's what people sounded like. Right. And it wasn't until like I started getting training that I was like, oh, there's people out here who can't sing. When you say started getting trained, what does that mean? Taking voice lessons? Yeah, taking voice lessons. So when I was younger, it was like, right, like family and friends. And I thought they're just being nice or whatever, because I I'm a Gemini, like I'm a Taurus Gemini. So like I'm a very focused. [19:34] Gemini that wants all the options. So like, even as a kid, it wasn't like, and you are a singer. Like I was the poster child for afterschool programs. I did it all. And I liked, I, I so appreciate that, that my parents instilled that and was never like stage parents or like, they were like, whatever you want, lock in, have fun. But even now, I think that's why acting is fun to me.

20:04-21:50

[20:04] one for too, too long. But that's also my life. It's people telling me like, no, no. [20:11] For real, though, you really could. Like, I thought, I've always felt like, I'm decent. And it's taking people... [20:18] who I've really admired to be like, no, there's something there. Um, and keep going or keep pushing in that direction. I hear what you mean. Like it takes sometimes like a mentor or someone to say you, what you have isn't the same as what everyone else has. Keep working on it, keep doing it like that. Encouragement can really, like, can I ask you a question to me, [20:48] And what you do. Would you say that that's true? Thank you for saying that. I think I would hope that it, it feels some version of like, [20:59] that I'm not trying or striving too hard, but it did take, [21:04] Definitely, definitely. [21:06] Like, [21:07] directors and teachers and stuff to be like, no, you're funny. Keep going. Like just the keep going part. The keep going part. Yeah. And as you know, too, a lot of it is like we know I know people way funnier than me. I know people way better actor than me, better singers. But half of the battle is just. [21:26] not giving up yep and being ready when it presents itself not getting a regular job not having health insurance not like just for a long time being like i'm just gonna try to make it yeah it's not easy no no no no no it's not easy at all so you start you you're in philly where are you from i'm from boston i felt the northeast 100 and i gotta talk to you about your boston accent

21:50-23:16

[21:50] Okay, we'll get there. It was so good. Oh, that means so much. Thank you. It's a hard one. And we're tough. So is Philly. And that was what was hard for me. I know because they're close. They're touching too close. But Philly has that like... [22:03] Like the O's are real. Yeah. Miles Teller does that. He has a Philly accent. Yeah. Hoagie. And I'm like, what? Hoagie. Yeah. Uh-huh. Yeah. And yuz and that. Yuz guys. I can't even do it. Yeah. So Philly, you go to, you start studying music. Your parents are teachers. Mm-hmm. [22:21] And you decide to go to school for opera. So I'm very competitive. So are you? I love competitive people. Man, we are literally the same. Women. I love competitive women. Yeah, respect all the way. Yeah, yeah, yeah. So my dad was like, it's interesting. I always think of this, and this is so random. My parents did not, for both of their children, want to know the gender in advance. Cool. I feel like that was so cutting edge. Yeah. [22:51] really was manifesting and wishing for the first one to be a boy. So it didn't happen, but he had a heavy hand in like sports and competitive and like not backing down. And so literally I was just a competitive. And so there was this girl and like a new girl at my high school that was like, I went to this performing arts school called Interlochen. And my brain went do, do, do, do,

23:21-24:59

[23:21] win it. That's literally what I said to my mom. She was like, okay. I had no idea what this thing was. And I applied. Explain what it was like, that camp. Oh my God. Interlochen is one of the most [23:32] magical places. I'm not even kidding. I would recommend any parent who has a child that has remote interest in any form of the arts. They do theater, music, they have a writing department. It is just like a safe haven for young grade school artists. It taught me to respect and revere. [23:56] You know what I mean? In everyday life, it's not, I don't know, maybe now with these generations, [24:02] Like me growing up, it was kind of like, oh, yeah, you do that other stuff, too. Yeah. Do you know what I mean? It was kind of like have fun and then find your real job. Yes. And so that was a place that I think is so integral for high school age kids, particularly. I mean, you can literally go at four years old. But for high school kids to go to to like really start to dip their toe into finding themselves as an artist. And it's just so such a beautiful place in my life. [24:32] a very strong moment because it was classical. And I was like, oh no, where's the R&B? That's for me. And so it was all classical. Whoa. So you were singing classical and did you, can you read music? No, I can't. At the time, I just had like a really good ear. You're a classically trained opera singer. And it was because of that. That's what started it. And it was teachers being like, no, you actually

25:02-26:37

[25:02] Had you seen any opera before that? I know. I feel like opera is this thing that you only see like, what is like a, it's just a field trip. It's a field trip. It's so funny. I love how we, when we grew up, like you're younger than me, but when I was growing up, like the genres kind of crossed at times and it's where you learned about people. And I remember I was thinking when I was doing, preparing for today, I was like, when did I first know about opera? And I think it was from the Muppets. [25:30] because Beverly Sills, who was a famous opera singer, sang opera on the Muppets. [25:36] And... [25:37] I'm also obsessed with the Muppets. So that's why my whole face just dropped when you said that. You love the Muppets? Babes, I wanted to pee on that show so bad. And they were like, we're not doing humans this year. I said. No humans. What do you mean? They're like, they're going to be like three humans, but it's really them. I was upset. Who's your favorite Muppet? Piggy. Are you kidding? Yeah, I know. She's the best. That lady literally is a lady. That lady. That lady owes me a lot of money. [26:07] Because of her. Oh, yes. As a child. To imagine, at a young age, that being like instilled in you, like you don't take shit from men. Yeah. You do your thing. Be fabulous. You don't change who you. I was like, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I literally made my parents buy me a tricycle. So, you know, she has that skit where she's like, what the motorcycle pack? And she's like, get around. I used to do it all the time. And I used to make my mom give me a leather jacket. Girl, it was a thing. That's my girl. When they told me the thing was coming back, I just said, please. And they said, mm-mm.

26:37-28:14

[26:37] Thank you. [26:37] The other place that I saw opera was Queen in Bohemian Rhapsody. Sure. I was like, oh, I actually think that's a bridge, like a gateway for a lot of people. Yeah, I think a lot of people were like, what is he singing? How is he singing that way? I was like, oh, no, that's what opera sounds like. So when did you see your first opera? [26:57] Like, once I went to the performing arts school, it was like they completely like slapped me with the culture. And I was like, whoa. And what was your first feeling about it? Like, what did you like about it? Having like what made you want to keep pursuing it? The power in my voice that I was like, oh, there's. And also, I'm going to be really honest. They really sold me on the idea that it was a really good life. Like, you're going to live in Europe and men are going to drool over you. [27:27] Wear beautiful gowns. Throw roses at your feet. And eat pasta all day. And you work hard, but not that hard. Like, because opera singers, they don't, how many, like, even if you're at the top of your game, yeah, if you have concerts, but they don't, like, we can do 17 million shows in a year. [27:44] They may do like two, three operas. So I was like, this is a nice lifestyle. It is not a Broadway schedule. No, ma'am. Are you, does opera is, do you have to kind of like pick like a, like an athlete? Do you have to pick your role? Like, uh. The voice part kind of dictates it. So what is your voice? What are you? I'm considered a baby dramatic soprano, which means like, I don't know. That's what they say. A baby. And I'm always like, well, I always have the baby part, even as I get older. I don't know. Maybe.

28:14-30:06

[28:14] But it's like, basically, it's like, so Leontine Price, I don't think they would consider her a baby, but dramatic soprano basically means you have the low notes, but you can also get up to the high notes. But instead of like, traditionally, soprano, the high notes are very like soft and airy, like more like Ariana Grande, like, right, like really breathy and soft and just like. [28:37] heavenly and like a dramatic soprano is like you can get up there but like with some heft baby dramatic soprano and did you ever do an opera on stage i went to temple university for the teacher quinta went there uh we were there at the same time quinta bronson and you guys were you friends did you know each other then we were in passing because she was like so theater and i was still music and they were still felt separate yeah they were very at that time now it's like a conservatory [29:07] So anyways, I went to Temple and we were doing AIDA. [29:11] Wow. And, you know, my middle class parents, teachers, like they're not dumb, but it's like if you were to watch Shakespeare for the first time, like they all know what's going on. And so I remember my brain was just like, I want to be able. It wasn't even acted. I want to be able to portray this character and know this character very well so that it can translate. Mm hmm. [29:37] For like my family and friends that come see this. I remember that very clearly. I don't even know where that came from. And so I remember to go across the street to the theater department, what was like communications to copy sheet music. And I literally was copying sheet music and it sounded like people were dying in the room next door. And it was a theater class. And so I went up to this teacher afterwards and I was like, hey, I'm working on an opera across the street. Like, could you help me? I want to like bring this to life and it'd be good. Wow.

30:07-31:26

[30:07] Very long story short, the music department got ultra pissed. [30:11] and they were like, no, no, you can't do that. You can't cross over there. And I was like, I don't want to cross over. I don't want to be an actor. But I guess because it had happened so many times, they were very territorial over it, and they flunked me out. [30:24] Excuse me. Yep. And it was my mom that I'm like bawling on the phone. This is like my junior spring. I'm out of here. I'm about to go be in Italy, like living my best life. And my mom was like, go across the street. I never could. She talked so, you know how moms are when their child is like devastated. Yeah. And she was like, step one. [30:46] go across the street, go speak to the administration. You're going to apply to the theater program. [30:52] Because most of your credits can transfer. Mm-hmm. And I actually think you might be good at it. That's literally how she said it. It was like, but she knew I needed logic first. Yeah. Yeah. [31:01] Because I kept thinking, oh, my God, like I'm about to graduate. I have to now completely find a new. Right. You're pot committed to this thing. And then. And I was like, OK. [31:12] I remember they tell me this to this day that I went to the administration office and I was like, I have to be an actor. And they were like, what? And I was like, no, I'm crying. They're like, you are, you are.

31:30-33:07

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33:08-34:40

[33:08] Switch today at visible.com. Plans start at $25 a month or get our premium visible plus pro plan and save $10 on your first month when you use promo code hang an exclusive offer for podcast listeners. Terms apply. See visible.com for plan features and network management details. [33:27] This episode is brought to you by Burlington. Here's a question for you. When was the last time you stopped by a Burlington? Oh, they just do coats? That's what you're going with? Well, they got way more going on. Sure, you can pick up a coat, but you're probably going to leave with a dress, sneakers, brand name beauty, something for your dog, and a candle you didn't know you needed. At Burlington's prices, you can just get it all. You don't need to sacrifice style for savings. [33:57] You should pop by. It's better than you remember. Find a store near you at Burlington.com. [34:05] And then you got really into Shakespeare, right? You did a lot of Shakespeare. Later, yeah, later. So when I got into Yale... [34:12] I faked it. I did Shakespeare, but I think I did, like, to Tanya when she sees Bottom and she's, like, in love. So I didn't have to really, like, you know? I don't. I didn't have to really, meaning, like... Is that more comedic? It is kind of more comedic. That's really interesting that what you're saying is, like, there's, like, there's Shakespeare and then there's... Yeah, like, it wasn't me reciting, like, Hamlet, where it was, like, okay, you're just standing there and delivering this speech. It was, like, this strong... Tanya's, like...

34:40-36:31

[34:40] kind of like a Michelle Obama, like a tough girl that's like, got it all together, who now you see gets to be like, she's drunk the Kool-Aid and she's like whimsically like this ingenue in love and just being silly and in love with this, like, you know, having like a kind of like teenage middle school moment of like, oh my God, this guy is so cute. So it was that, but like, I'm saying in the sense of like, I wasn't doing Hamlet. Do you want to do more Shakespeare? Absolutely. So I went [35:10] I was like, I don't know this because I was doing another classical art. I don't know this one. And so I went to the British Academy of Dramatic Arts at Oxford, which I couldn't believe it. We literally ate lunch. [35:23] where Harry Potter ate lunch. Like, I remember walking in there being like, oh my God, I made it. Yeah, and so I was, it was just so cool because I learned Shakespeare, like, [35:33] Wow. By the people who do it. Wow. But I love that sense of command that they have over language. I love how much you have trained. Thank you. Like you are, you really know your stuff. Thank you. I really appreciate that. It's fun. I bet. And it gives to, to your point, like it's supposed to be a journey, like fun. And when you get to try and fail over and over again, and then you get stronger and better. It is the best feeling to me. It's kind of like freedom within form. [36:03] Like, as long as I know the guardrails are up, I'm going to bang up against those guardrails. But like, right. In order for me to really be loose and give all of myself, even with comedy, like I just need to know the parameters. Yeah. And then I'm just going to go off. And it allows me to. So I guess in a way, the training is like the guardrails. Yeah. Then when I work, I'm like, whatever. Like, have you ever watched something back of your. I don't like to. I don't love to. Don't like.

36:33-38:27

[36:33] oh yeah also also adr is uh for people don't know it's like that moment in the film when you have to kind of go back sometimes and re-record stuff which for me is my first time of seeing it ever yes it's often your first time seeing it and it hasn't been like color correct or anything and so you're just like orange you're just like why do i look like that i guess i'm 100 years old like it just it's seeing your face for the first time yeah in a thing that isn't finished yeah and you have to record new stuff and it's brutal and it's brutal i always i used to call my mom crying [37:03] Mama looks ugly. She was like, go across the street. Yep. To the theater. Take a breath. You are okay. You are not the character. You serve the character. Your mom is really good at calming. Yeah, she's the one. When you were at Yale, was there anyone else there that we would know at the time? But who else was there? When I was there, when I was a second year, Lupita was a first year. Then after Lupita was Winston Duke. [37:33] now gone, but was then Yaya. [37:37] Then after that was Mama Do. Like it just was. [37:41] Wow. Yeah. Wow. That's intense. That's intense. And then you go and you go from that to talk about. [37:48] training being put to the test. You have to open Ghost in the West End with about a week of rehearsal. Yeah. Which made no... So I was... [38:01] When I graduated, I got an agent and like, you know, I got to have a survival job. Yeah. So I applied everywhere in New York City. And that little Yale degree, even though it's in theater, people were like, you're overqualified. No. And I was like, you know more than the director. And that upsets him. Yeah. And so I couldn't get any job. And so I was like, OK, I'm going to nanny. So I nannied for this amazing family.

38:31-40:05

[38:31] broke and I said listen as a curator of arts your children need to go to five-star hotels and experience what that is like desserts and really nice places and we need to teach them how to eat at a five literally and they were like okay and literally can you imagine two little white [39:01] watching i gotta make this look credible that's so smart it was so much fun so smart and then you love that job so how do you get the job so they were like oh this is an audition for the like understudy understudy it's swing and so they were like you'll if you get this you'll rarely go on no big deal i go in there because i'm young and i had never auditioned for anything before those people told me so you're going to do the entire thing and [39:30] They made me audition for 75% of that musical. Wow. In the room. Like I had my sides and then they were like, here's more. Cold read. Wow. 75% of the musical. And you nailed it. It was just adrenaline. Yes. But one thing that was a blessing and a curse, I was on a high. Like my body was just. [39:51] I said, speaking of belting high, baby, I belted high that day. Uh-oh. And then they wrote it. [40:00] So they were like, oh, she wants to belt an ass. Never be good at something you don't want to do.

40:07-41:37

[40:07] Because eight shows a night and they were basically up there. I was like, no, we don't have to bring it down. So I did that audition in like August. [40:18] I didn't hear anything for two days. I'm not thinking about it. It's the understudies, understudy, understudy. My team then hits me up and is like, you booked it. I'm like, oh, okay, cool. And I was bummed because I was like, I gotta tell these kids. I gotta leave them. And my team was like, are you Chris? It was the lifestyle. I was saying goodbye to the lifestyle. So they literally, they were like days later, they're like, why are you not more excited? My team. And I was like, cause you, it's just whatever. Like if everyone gets sick, then maybe I'll go on. [40:48] Slide. [40:49] Um... [40:50] you are playing Whoopi Goldberg's part. And I was like, come on, what? Why would you do this? So then I'm terrified. And it was literally the, like the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. And so I had never done a job of that magnitude, but I had never done a like seasonal job. Yeah. And I really love the holidays. So I started crying and I was like, but do I get to spend this game with my [41:20] people and you talk about them a lot and you talk about Robin Williams. [41:25] and I can't believe that was my first movie. That's amazing. I cannot believe that. Sadly, that was my first movie and that was his last movie. I cannot believe it. What was it like to be with him? So,

41:38-43:19

[41:38] grateful. [41:39] There's something that I notice in legendary comedians specifically. Robin had it. [41:47] Eddie had, I had that experience. It's different, but they have a similar trait. Eddie shows up in Steve Martin for sure, Martin Short. And there's this thing when we talk about when people... [42:00] Tap me on my shoulder and be like, hey. [42:04] And I never would think it would be those people. In my mind growing up, I thought, you know, like they either really stay to themselves or they're distant or like their egos won't ever give you the satisfaction. And Robin was the complete opposite. And he actually talked to me more than anybody else. We just talked for we. I literally just sat there and listened to everything that that man said to me. And I will... [42:32] In the moment, while he was talking to me, I was like, hmm. [42:36] This is crazy. No one's going to believe you. So don't even tell anyone like maybe later you can share a great anecdote, but I'm [42:45] It was unbelievable. And he just poured into me and it would just be like in between the takes. He was just like, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. And then, you know, immediately just go into this thing. But yeah, he, if I would say career wise, he was the first person. [43:04] That was like... [43:06] You've got what an anointing from someone like that. And then you were to the Eddie and Dolomite and what and and same thing. Eddie really took you under his wing. He really did. He really did. And something that was interesting. So like differences.

43:20-44:52

[43:20] And Robin was so explosive. It felt like when people ask, the only thing I can think of is like, you know how in Penn Station, the ticker thing? Yeah, it's like you can't his thoughts are so loud when he's not talking that even when you stand next to him, it's like, and I'm just like, I feel like almost like having coffee, like you just feel this buzz being next to him and just was like. [43:50] work with him at that stage of his life and that point of his career, there is a stillness and a quietness when he's not working or in between scenes. And then there's the action and this whole thing comes to life. And it was something that in the first, again, supporting actor being like, oh, okay, this is your rhythm. And this is how you work that I then like adjusted. And then I was like, okay, so I'm not. Well, that feels like your musical training comes in there because you're picking exactly [44:20] You said rhythm and breath and energy, like the dynamics. Yes, 100%. Of the day. The rhythm is the biggest thing, I think, especially with comedy and especially with legends at that. You want to learn quickly, not ask any questions and observe and like... [44:36] It was like jump rub of like, I'm jumping in and I'm jumping out. You know what I mean? Learning that kind of pacing. But it was after... [44:46] that he really kind of prepared me for the industry in that when we,

44:52-46:31

[44:52] did like we had a full-blown press tour and he was like she's come whatever I'm going to she's coming to all of it and so like 100% it prepared me for holdovers I think if I didn't have that I'll be like what is this crazy machine yes of things and so in a more chill way I got to experience that I got to see what insane fame was [45:17] looks like. Yeah. Which is scary to me. Yeah. That's really intense. I'll get ready for it. Sorry. But you mentioned the holdovers. It I just have to say to you that film. [45:30] Thanks. [45:31] It is now forever in rotation as a Christmas film because not only is it beautifully acted and beautifully directed by Alexander Payne and Paul Giamatti and Dominic, they're amazing. The three of you together are just – Thank you. But it also captures this melancholy. Like you say you love the holidays and it's this holiday salty, sweet, sour sadness that happens to all of us. All of us. [46:01] consider like a traditional happy Christmas. Because like the loneliness finds its way in. Every time. I know even with a full house, the way you... [46:12] depicted in [46:14] That mother and that movie, that, [46:17] It's one of my favorite cinematic performances. I love you in that movie. Thank you so much. Congratulations on winning the Academy Award. Thanks, babes. And so deserved. Thank you. And just so...

46:32-48:01

[46:32] First of all, Paul Giamatti. Love him. Always loved him. Always loved him. And like similarly, he's so good at so many things. Yeah, he is. He's really good at playing like that underdog that can't quite figure it out and just like keeps hitting their head against the wall. Oh, he's so good. I had a fun moment when he hosted SNL when I was there. And, you know, you're like down under the bleachers, like changing clothes really fast. And at one point I turned to him and I was like, are you having fun? And he was like, this is a nightmare. [47:02] painful and he's dying inside funny yeah yeah even while we're filming and i'm like wow we're really doing it he's like i hate it not he hates like acting no but do you know what i mean like that's why he's so funny that's why he's so good because he doesn't put himself in like risky like inside his anxiety is through the roof yes and and he's like we feel it we feel it with him and the the trio of you three like unexpected friends yeah like you know like a random family yeah [47:32] Yeah. So good. What kind of prep did you do for that role? So it was interesting when because I love cooking. [47:40] I was like, so listen, contractually, I have to cook for real. And for many reasons and due to that time period, I wanted it to be clear that this was actually her job and that she was good at it versus like I first asked Alexander, I said, is she the help or is she a learned chef?

48:02-49:50

[48:02] And he was like, I actually want her to be a learned. He said, cook. And I said, we're not going to say that word. We're going to say chef. If you're saying she has an education in it, she's a chef. Right. And so... [48:13] Once I knew that's where he was going with it, I was like, OK, so then you're going to have to establish scenes and moments where I'm dealing with the food and facilitating the kitchen to show my prowls over this area. Yeah. Right. And so and I remember there was like there was. [48:32] And he was so down, which was so cool for someone that acclaimed and lauded to have that much flexibility and collaboration, which I think is another huge reason why that movie just did so well, because he trusted us and we really got to work together. And so, like, there was a moment where I was like, you know... [48:51] To be honest, he had a lineup of extras for people that were going to be in my kitchen. And they were all women of color. And I was like, you're going to have to put some white ladies in there, too. And he was like, really? Why? And I said, because the other ones look like it's my friends that I just brought in. And then this other version makes it again look like, oh, no, I'm in charge. Yeah. And these are the cooks. So I ad lib this line in the movie where I'm like to the white lady, too much paprika. [49:21] In my mind, I was like, no, no, no. She can taste it and be like... [49:25] too much paprika because I wanted to show a lot of it to do with the time period that I was like I want if you're saying she's a chef I don't want those lines to be blurred but in regards to prep the first the thing that Alexander was thank you for sharing that with me I know yeah yeah totally just to take a minute I love knowing that because you're because I couldn't capture the what you're exactly what you're saying which is a

49:50-51:30

[49:50] There's a regalness to her. Yes. There's a pride. Yes. And even if that lady has two cents in her pocket, which is another thing, because he understandably, he wanted her to be in hot pink rollers and that cozy, warm, purple muumuu the entire most of the movie. Yeah. Because he was like, it's the holidays. And I was like, no, she has so much pride. She's working. Yes. She may be, you know, they might be in like living, shared living quarters, but she's working. [50:20] up. This is her job. And so it was something that we had to negotiate for him to realize. No, this isn't just auntie with Uncle Buck and whatever. It gives such incredible... [50:34] tension because that is her space and in the scene when she's serving and when uh when she when everyone is eating her food that she's good at cooking yes and um paul's character standing up for her and like it's beautiful that's one of my favorite moments yeah and it's just a look she just looks at the kid yes but she but you know the volume in which paul yelled she heard it [51:00] Yes. You know, I mean, like she wasn't there for it, but she heard that he had his back. And so the main prep was Alexander was very keen on smoking. It was almost like an audition question. Do you smoke? And I was like, no, I don't. And he was like, and I was like, you can send a pack on over and we can figure it out. Part of the prep was learning how to smoke, making it look realistic. It was great that I was in Boston. There's so many smokers in Boston, but I would just watch like there is a

51:30-53:10

[51:30] science you can tell the level of addiction or how many years i'm not gonna say addiction it is an addiction yeah let's say it how long you've been in the game oh tell me what you noticed about how people the loose the more that it feels like it is literally another finger they've been doing it for a while right right or this is like that person is usually like older men that like it's hanging how i don't even know it's like that one beat of saliva because a person [52:00] has their like one cigarette a week it's tighter it's tight and they're like enjoying every minute i'm thinking about like the girls outside the club sure like bumming it from someone else yes and but someone who's like oh there's a hundred more where that came from it'll fall out they like pick it up whatever yeah i'm gonna light another one right away yeah and so part of my process was like so interesting what's her level of addiction and in certain [52:26] times and what she's going through i wanted the the smoking to signify what like psychologically was going on for her so and then the big the biggest most difficult the two difficult things most difficult things about filming and smoking timing of knowing when to like how to pace of the between the talking and when to pull right um yeah and blowing that smoke so it's not in [52:56] There's some moments where you wanted to get in or not like directing that smoke was tricky. Ooh, I can't. I'm going to be rewatching this movie again. That was the hardest part. And I'm going to watch all of your smoking choices. We could have a beautifully acted scene.

53:10-54:54

[53:10] And I was going to be like, that smoke went in Paul's face, Paul's face, do it again. And then the last thing was the dialect, which he was like, let's talk about it. He said it was fine. He was like, you're from Philadelphia. It's cool. And I was like, Alexander, respectfully, respectfully, how dare you? No, sir. And he was adamant about it. And you worked. I can tell because it was so good. Yeah. I went with Nicole Kidman's dialect coach, who's the best and so down to earth. But yeah, I said, no, no, no, no, no. [53:40] Yeah. [53:42] Like we said, I'm from Philadelphia. It's so close, but yet it's not the same thing. And also it was technically it's a period piece. And so the biggest reason why I wanted to do the dialect, not only because that is what is the world. [53:56] I needed something to differentiate and to separate from me. [54:00] Yeah. And so I needed that dialect. The smoking. Yeah. Clothes helps. The hair helped a lot. But the dialect was the thing that really allowed me to lock in. Were there words that helped you lock in? Like Mr. What was his name? Have a Miss Hunnam. Mr. Hunnam. I heard you. It's that first scene. Mr. Hunnam. When they meet. And she's like, Mr. Hunnam. I'm paraphrasing. She's like, Mr. Hunnam. I heard you had babysitting duty. [54:30] How'd you manage that? And that was like my key phrase. Yes. That I would babysitting. Yeah. Babysitting. How'd you manage that? What was helpful was the crew was all Boston. Oh, yeah. So I would literally like, yeah, no shame. I was like, did I say that? You didn't get it. Because Boston and me, you know, is our ears are attuned. It's to me. It's like the Australian

55:00-56:48

[55:00] basically said to myself is I worked on it and prepped it a lot. And I told myself, you're going to have the first day of filming. If you get a lot of feedback on this dialect, either being distracting or too much or not right. [55:15] We're going to leave it alone. Yeah. Smart. And, and, and. Smart. Yeah, it worked. And I was like, okay. But in between still, I literally, in between takes, the gaffer, I'm like, is it? [55:27] smart smart smart smart yeah and they like smart and i'm like okay smart smart speaking of films we're talking about eternity the rom-com that you're in with the hilarious john early who we love i think he was one of the last people that they cast and i knew from the script that i would have quite a bit of stuff with this character and i kept saying who i kind of didn't want to sign on the dotted line until i knew yeah who that person was and it just didn't work out that way [55:57] testing. We were camera testing and I was... [56:00] ear hustling and I heard them say, and I go, ah, yes. And they were like, what is wrong? And I'm like, oh, my job just got way better. So funny. Easy. Really easy. You guys are great together. Easy. [56:15] Has it? [56:17] The stuff that's up there in that brain. [56:21] And it's so much. [56:25] Do you know, you obviously know what I mean. And you know what I was a little worried about? Because he's so, so good that I was like, oh, he's going to be doing the button thing. You know the button thing when you're around funny ha-has? And it's like the scene is done. And now every funny person in that room is like, da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da. And then that person goes back and I'm like, wow. Oh my God, I've never heard it said like that. That's, I'm really...

56:48-58:40

[56:48] I'm really sweating because I, I so it's infectious. You're so right though. There's an instinct for comedy people to be like, and one more thing. Button, button, button. Now person A has got to do second button. I feel seen. And then it goes and it just go. And my always, I'm like very present, but. [57:11] And that's usually when the camera cuts to me. [57:14] Oh, that's so real. Yeah, you're right. And then once someone does a button, someone's like, I got to button that button and it never ends. I just sit there. [57:24] But yeah, he didn't have any of that. Yeah. But so I don't think he ever repeated a joke. I'm just so, so impressed by him. What is your relationship to romcoms? What romcoms? Are you a romcom person? Do you like romcoms? I was when I was in high school. What did you like? I was like, let me tell you something. [57:42] I'll lose a guy in 10 days. Oh, yeah. It's perfect. And if you tell me different, I'll fight you. That. I like how you whispered that. My best. [57:56] It's so emotional. Baby, that scene when they're out in Staten Island, Long Island, playing that card game. I'm bawling. [58:05] You're really making me want to watch that again. It's been a minute. Okay. And I like it too because it's like, it's a relatable story. [58:12] New York couple, you know, some of those New York rom-coms, you're like, well, I'm never going to be in that penthouse. So I love how it was like they were regular New Yorkers. And that like Staten Island, I forget what it is, that Long Island family was a really good touch. My best friend's wedding. Yes, it's so good. I think it's the ones that are really relatable. I know. And they just dig in and some like they're like rainy day, delicious treats.

58:42-1:00:03

[58:42] We talk to people who know our guests. We talk well behind their back. [58:46] We get a question for them. So we talked to the director of fraternity, David Frayn, and we got to talk about how [58:53] incredible it was working with you. And he, and he was explaining, which I'm, I'm now getting to see in real time, the feeling of there was like a, there's a calmness to you when you work and a confidence that is, [59:07] he says like it just as a director just makes you feel like everything is going to work out like everything you know oh that's and he had two questions for you one was where do you think you find the calm or as he said the cam yeah the car he had a great tax and where did you find the cam yeah but um the um so that was his first question is like is that true are you feeling like when you step and work there's a calmness to you is do people project that on you is that real what do [59:37] Um, uh, how do I say it's a little projected it's all of it. Right. So number one, yes. It's part of that, like preparing to then like have so much fun, like, right. Like within the boundaries, like I know I did the work, but then I'm very open to what is the direction? What are you giving me? What, you know what I mean? What is it going to be in this? I know her. Um, and you could tell me we're going to go on Mars. Great. We're going on Mars. What's that going to

1:00:07-1:01:49

[1:00:07] like it's interesting how leads speak of like their role of leadership and I am aware that part of my role is to be, [1:00:18] not say anything out loud, but to reassure and to like, um, nurture a little, but like create a foundation. [1:00:28] That's really interesting. Not to name drop, but I will. I've been name dropping a lot today. Gwyneth Paltrow was in the seat and she said something that I thought was really interesting, which is, you know, we were talking in terms of a codependency and trying to figure out. And when you're in a supporting role in any aspect of life, you have to balance what you talked about, [1:00:52] Thank you. [1:00:53] Knowing what is needed for the room. And she used the term thermometer. Like, is the room too hot? Same with every scene. That's a giving, supportive, collaborative person. And then also taking care of yourself. That's right. It's a hard balance. And I think I've gotten really good at that. And I think that's also why I've been able to work with the type of people I've gotten to work with. [1:01:23] yeah right and so then I'll have like it's so cute and I can't believe I'm even saying this Steve Martin will literally be like because I normally when I film for only murders they're so kind and with my schedule they allow me to like shoot out so I'm doing like in two weeks like five episodes and so we get like this kind of like intense two weeks with one another and and then I'll be like gone for a year and then we'll catch up for like press and then do

1:01:52-1:03:45

[1:01:52] I forgot about this feels good. I'm feeling good. And that to me is the greatest, greatest compliment that I can think of. And so I think it is a bit of that. And then I think also... [1:02:06] There is like... [1:02:08] I do still suffer with imposter syndrome in this format. Like when we have to talk about it. [1:02:17] But I don't when we're doing it, if that makes sense. That does. But it's a quiet, maybe that's what we mean about that calmness, reassuredness. It's a quiet confidence. Yeah. But also at the same time, there's a lot of adrenaline and excitement buzzing through me. And do you ever find sometimes when you perform this kind of like, sometimes I'll have this moment of like zoom in, zoom out. Yeah. Where I'm like kind of up overhead. Oh yeah, disassociating. Yeah. It's great. I highly recommend it. I love it. [1:02:47] the ceiling babe nothing can touch me nope i'm not here and we're doing it even there yeah yeah and i have that sometimes me too and it's and it's um what you're saying is like a technique to get past exactly what you said the fear and adrenaline and i don't know if you're like this but i can get nervous after i do something like i get through it and then like an hour later i'm like yeah did we do it and it all starts to shake out because yeah i wasn't really there yeah i want to finish [1:03:17] speed round if you can give me a sentence or two about this about some of these people or things sure sure sure and number one is zoe kravitz the best and i knew she was extremely talented when i first met her she was an executive producer i think that was her first executive producer role and she went above and beyond and so when she began starting to direct i was like duh we saw that i remember one time she literally and it was so cool because we were the same age

1:03:47-1:05:27

[1:03:47] and she was literally like, it was a coffee cup. We were doing a scene in a bodega and it was a coffee cup. And she was like, that's not... [1:03:55] what real coffee cups look like. [1:03:59] in New York. Like, why is it? I think it was like red, you know, supposed to be blue with the blue and the white. And they were like, oh, because we're young and she's a woman. So they're like, no, no, Zoe, it's fine. And she's like, no, no. [1:04:11] get it right. And we'll wait in a very polite, but professional and stern way. And I was like, she's got it. Okay. Speed round. Yeah. Monologue. Al Pacino. [1:04:22] Yeah, so Al Pacino, I was like, you're getting good ones. And you're like, speed around. Al Pacino on Broadway, stressed out, voice tired, eating soup in like this little French bistro. He randomly is there. [1:04:38] Uh, he goes to check out and he backs back and like comes and sits down at my table and we have this like beautiful heartfelt thing. And I share with a stranger, like, it's really hard. I can't talk. Like, you know what I mean? I have no life, the amount that is required for this. Um, and he gave me the most beautiful advice ever. And he uses metaphor of a ladder and said, like, as you continue to go up a ladder, you [1:05:08] have to let go of more and more weight and kind of was like, it's not what you're feeling is natural. Another moment of someone being like, you've got it. Keep going. And it was like, I'll see you at the top of the ladder. Cut to we do Dolomite. Netflix decides they're now going to start doing magazines like their own magazines.

1:05:27-1:06:51

[1:05:27] We get to the shoot and there's a ladder there. And I'm like, oh my God, oh my God. Cause I knew he was going to be in this shoot. Cause it was like the Irishman. And I was like, yo, if they put me on this ladder, I'm going to lose it. And they're like placing everyone. So they placed Al. Yeah. [1:05:47] He's next to the ladder. And I said, please, please, please. Because he's still got to put like Laura Dern and Scarlett Johansson. So I was like, yo, I want that ladder. And they put me on the ladder. I'm bawling the entire photo shoot. [1:05:57] And I'm like looking down at him and I'm like, how do you remember the letter? Did you ask him? And did he? No. No, no, no. Oh, I can't remember the letter. But I'm like, it's the letter. And he's like, all right, honey, like whatever. But in my mind, I was like, full circle. I'm on the letter. I'm looking at you. And you said it was going to happen. Oh, my God. Perfect story. And then Stephen Sondheim. I miss him. I know that sounds so crazy. It doesn't. But it's like he was like the modern. [1:06:26] he okay sometimes that musical theater stuff is a lot for me like I was never a kid that I was like but because I came into a late and I just like well I'm a vocalist and this is theater and I had to like find my way into musicals which is funny that my first gig was a musical but I just vibed with him so much because it felt like strong story really good acting and we just so happened

1:06:56-1:08:30

[1:06:56] taste one of the purest ways of expressing musical theater and in college we did into the woods and i played the witch oh and i was like okay i think i like this stuff can you sing a little bit of it girl i sound so crazy you don't you sound so crazy this is wait but what's the song when she's like a little steve anything from steven sometime what is the one the one that the witch want me to get it on my laptop but what i'm gonna look up the lyrics this is crazy i sing for no one i'm gonna [1:07:26] Please do it. Please do it. Please order it immediately. I'm not kidding you. I've thought about it the entire time. You guys, you didn't see it, but it has a wooden bowl. With a hunter green hair. And the copper. Okay. What are we looking up? Where are the clowns? [1:07:44] Send in the clones. [1:07:48] Tinkspin. [1:07:51] Only for you. Literally. Thank you. Thank you. For years. [1:07:56] Oh, no, you hear years. Okay. I appreciate you. I appreciate you. And, um, [1:08:02] The world needs to hear your voice. I know. I got to work through this stuff. And so that's why I'm going to figure out. I think honestly, I talk about this a little bit, but I think honestly, because the classical thing, like I feel like there's a lot of people that can sing like pop and R&B. But I do feel like that's like one of my special little tricks. Like you said, how singing is a trick, but like classical. I think I want to do a biopic on Leontine Price and just like, OK, we're doing it.

1:08:30-1:10:25

[1:08:30] Oh yeah. The bandaid off. Everybody listening to singing. Yeah. Everybody listening. Let's make that happen. Yeah. God, that would be amazing. I think that'd be fun. And then our, my last question is because you're so funny times and times are stressful. We ask a lot of our guests, um, [1:08:46] what they listen to, read, go to, to laugh. Is there anything right now that you're watching, consuming, like a dumb video, a TV show? You know who really makes me... I did a podcast... [1:09:04] with royal court oh britney i to the point where i had to tell my publicist like go back and take some things because i just felt so comfortable and we were just i saw you on that and you guys were hilarious we were cracking up and i was like oh she's god so i think what her podcast is giving people right now is really really nice i watch a lot of old stuff i don't [1:09:34] or like... I don't watch a lot of comedies. In fact, I mean, one of the reasons why the kind of intention behind this podcast is to me the way... [1:09:43] for my own mental health was like feeling like chatting and laughing with people. Yeah. Connection was getting me up out of things. Yeah. But the actual like watching comedy at home and like sometimes it feels like, if it's good, I'm like, damn. [1:09:58] I can't watch because I'm judging it. I can't watch contemporary stuff because I'm like, my friend's in that. Her hair looks crazy. You know what I mean? Like, why did they do? So I like to watch older things. And so, I mean, you can't beat a 90s comedy, which I feel like is a lot of stuff that you've done. But like a 90s comedy is just so good. Like what? What would you put on like to like run as you were like, are you talking friends? Are you talking? I love Rush Hour. Yes.

1:10:28-1:11:58

[1:10:28] buddy duos that you would never think of and it is oh so good let's watch a rush hour scene for you what scene um they don't give a damn about you they don't like you i don't like you the girl like you nobody likes you you came all well here for nothing you ain't gonna be on [1:10:58] touch the radio. [1:10:59] This is not even your car. Don't touch the radio. I mean, also, I love when people give it to somebody straight, and they're like, I don't like you. It really makes me laugh. I just don't enjoy you. Nobody ever gets to say that in real life. No. You never get to say. Comedy lets you say stuff you could never say. Yeah. Just deadpan. And walk away. She doesn't like you. [1:11:20] Just not into you. Sorry. Well, Davine, I love you. I adore you. And I think we should be friends. Yes. Please. [1:11:29] various things together. I'm going to give you my number. I want you to text me when you get the mixer. Great. I think you should get a pot. Just get one of the pots. I got to get all the pots. Okay, good. That's what I was hoping for. And then, like, when you cook something in there, text it to me. Oh, I would love to. And I'm going to text it to you, too. Yes! I mean, what are we? Why are we working so hard if we can't buy ourselves discounted copper pots? Black Friday sale. We deserve it. In this economy.

1:11:59-1:13:40

[1:11:59] be? Why would you? But it's that red ink that you speak about. It's that urgency of. There's only five left. Such a lie. It gets me. Five left. There's 50,000 in inventory in the back. Yeah, but I'm gonna get it and I'm gonna go pick it up. Do you have pasta fingies? [1:12:17] Pasta thingy? Which thing? So when you get that, you can then also, I think it's like $99.99, get the attachment has to then make fresh pasta. [1:12:31] What? A pasta making machine or the thing? So you get the kitchen made. Thank you for coming. We're going to get up and we're going to go shopping. Kitchen made. You just take the head off and then attach. [1:12:45] The pasta... [1:12:46] Different things. So you could do the one where it's like lasagna. Then taste that off. Macaroni. And then you got endless possibilities. I've never made pasta and I've always wanted to. I'm going to do it. I will do it with you. Yeah, I would love to. Let's do it. Let's hire a guy. Just a super fast. [1:13:06] Thank you so much, Dave. I enjoy Randolph. You were so fun. And I love talking to you. [1:13:16] your talent and your training. And so thanks for joining me on the pod. And speaking of talent and training, I just want to use this polar plunge because we were talking a little bit about Shakespeare. And there's a person that I discovered in my phone where I discover everything, read everything and learn everything. A performer named Michelle Terry. And she is, I believe she ran

1:13:46-1:15:19

[1:13:46] And then Royal National Theater, she performed all those places. She's really good. She's a really good actress. She is a person who continually amazes me and translates Shakespeare to me in a way that feels like... [1:14:00] No one has for me. So I don't know if you're on your phone right now and you want to type her name in and you're going to see videos of her playing Hamlet and Richard III. Incredible. OK, so if you never liked Shakespeare before, Michelle Terry is going to get you there. So that's my plunge. Thank you for listening and see you next time. Bye. [1:14:26] You've been listening to Good Hang. [1:14:30] Berman and me, Amy Poehler. The show is produced by The Ringer and Paper Kite. For The Ringer, production by Jack Wilson, Kat Spillane, Kaya McMullen, and Alaya Zanaris. For Paper Kite, production by Sam Green, Joel Lovell, and Jenna Weiss-Berman. Original music by Amy Miles. [1:14:52] Starting a business can seem like a daunting task, unless you have a partner like Shopify. [1:14:57] They have the tools you need to start and grow your business. From designing a website, to marketing, to selling and beyond, Shopify can help with everything you need. [1:15:06] There's a reason millions of companies like Mattel, Heinz, and Allbirds continue to trust and use them. [1:15:11] With Shopify on your side, turn your big business idea into... Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com slash special offer.

1:15:20-1:15:50

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