Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Ever wondered if the magic was real? Well this is where it was made. The wonder of the Hogwarts Express. The chill of the forbidden forest. The secrets hidden in Gringotts Bank. You don't watch the films here. You feel them. Every spell. Every creature. Every detail. Immerse yourself in the filmmaking magic at Warner Brothers Studio Tour London. The making of Harry Potter. Tickets must be booked in advance. WBStudioTool.co.uk Hello everyone. Welcome to another episode of Good Hang. We are going to talk today to Devine Joy Randolph. And I am really, really excited. I am 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 theatre. We're going to talk about how to do a good Boston accent. And we're going to hear how 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 Devine is in. And I believe he is calling from another country. He's zooming from another country. Another time zone. So let's see. It's David Frayn joining us. David, can you hear us? 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 this day that you're looking for. When you want your summer vacation to feel like a vacation, it matters where you stay. Book now at Hilton.com. Hilton for the stay. Hello. Hi, how are you? Hi, so nice to meet you. So good to meet you. We're talking to Devine today. And you know, it's fun because Devine, I have to say, is one of, I really don't know very much about her. We've never met and we have friends in common and people in common in, but I've only kind of watched her as a fan and watched her stuff. 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. Thank you. I'm always looking for comedy in theaters and in film. It's been, to be very honest, not always the easiest genre of the last decade to get good things out in the world. And comedy is like music. It's so subjective. People have big, strong opinions about it. Where were your comedic influences? Like when you started writing and directing, who were you looking to at the time? I grew up loving Billy Wilder was my idol. So in. And then like, I mean, 30 Rock and Parks and Rec. And those are great iconic kind of TV comedies where you get such a high joke rate per minute, which I think we don't get very often. So I always looked at that. And 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. And I think that like segueing to Dave Ein and my incredible cast, that does go, you can write as good a script as you want, but that's the delivery. That's the actors. And, you know, 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. You can't do it. You can't do it all. Before we get to Dave, I have one last question. And I feel we can always, if it's too personal, of course, we can lose it. But you shared a really personal and intense story about your health journey after writing this film that feels like it is completely attached to and tied to the bigger idea that you're writing about. Yeah. So in the summer, like 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, they found an apple sized tumor in my head that had kind of broken through my brain and surrounded my optic nerves and crotted arteries. And like it was a really surreal, devastating thing to go through. And 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 thing. But after so many years, but I had incredible care and doctors and incredible family and my partner. And it's slowly, it's gotten better. And I've had a great outcome from the surgery. And I will say, having gone through that in the last few months after making a film set in the afterlife, I felt quite contented. Like I felt, I felt I was looking at debt 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 Devine 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. Working with good people, kind people, people that share your kind of passions. I think that, that becomes much more important because you don't really have time for ourselves. No, I also don't have time for assholes either. Yeah. Yeah. Assholes are ourselves. They're the worst. So tell me about working with Devine. How does she like to work? Cause 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 like 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 will get to work with her. But thankfully she still wanted to do the film. But yeah, she's, she's had the most incredibly varied career from opera to theater to, to then finding acting. And, and it does feel like she can do anything. I mean, I, you know, I, we knew, even though the whole, there was a 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 anguish and anxiety that most comedians I know have. Like she just, she just is brilliant. And I think she maybe can't kind of slightly know she's brilliant. Yes. Yeah. She's, she's extraordinary. She has, she comes to set and comes to everything with such 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 phases her. Or, which I find fascinating because I'm phased by most things. Yeah. She's, she's 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. 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, as I have Dave mine here today, is there a question you think I should ask her big or small? Specific or, 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 comp, the calm she has come from because it's so, it's so admirable to me. And I, I, I don't, I don't think you can be born without it. Something else. And the other thing is because she's had such a varied career is when did she know how funny she was? 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. Will you just randomly pick one book out from behind you and tell us what the title is? What the title is? Yeah. Oh, I'm going to pick this one because my, my sister in law wrote it, The Boldness of Betty. Oh, The Boldness of Betty? It's an amazing series of kind of YA books. They're beautiful. Always looking for a new book. Thank you for that wreck. Yeah. Yeah. And also I just got to check to make sure those books are real. No, I actually can't read. Yeah, just covers. I can tell. It's just the covers of the inside. There's VHS's inside. Yeah. Yeah. Perfect. Perfect. Thank you so much, David. Great. Such a pleasure talking to you. Thanks for your time. Thank you so much. Have a lovely day. Yeah, you too. Bye-bye. This episode is brought to you by Subaru. For me, going the extra mile means taking the long way home. If you're going to grab snacks and the 10 minute trip turns into a two hour 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, 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. Dave, 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 and 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. Like a kk. When you open up the bottle and it's like pssss. Mmm. I know. It does something to me. And you know what's fascinating? How in Europe, they have percentages. A fist? They don't even give me started. Also, how do you feel about your sparkling water? Because I get the big bottles, but then I don't drink like half of it and then it's done. It's dead. A dead sparkling water is my... So what I do is I pour it in a fancy like wine glass. So that's funny that you say cocktails. I immediately twist it up. Yeah, really tight. Cover it up. Broke it. Like I almost want to cut my fingers. Super tight. Put that bad boy back in the fridge. 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. I know. And some brands are hard to get 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, 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. 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? Okay, 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, we, it's going to break. And it's like, what? What? 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 putting it out of my mind. And then when a package comes, I'm like, what is this? 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. Exactly. 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? Like tableware? I don't know what it's called. I love kitchenware tableware. So I went past and I was like, gosh, it's on sale. I want one. And I literally remembered because life is life thing. No, 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 don't know. It was crazy. That's how weird life is right now. I love kitchen gear so much. So much. It's like a treat. I sometimes I'll go past the wall of gadgets. I'm like, okay, I have a garlic press. I have a wood mallet. Okay. I have a zester. And I'm like, what do I need for 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 KitchenAid. Yeah. Oh, wow. Yeah. And I forgot. And I was going to just a stainless steel one or like the red one in Costco. Like, oh, geez, I wish I had one. Oh, this is very, very. And then 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. You're winning. 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. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. William and Sonoma. Now you're crushing it at William and Sonoma. Just put in heritage copper. Oh, you got me right there. Pans. I don't know. You got me right there. It's this Italian company. I think it's with our copper cookware. Fuck. I love cookware. I could talk about cookware all day long. Let's see. What do we got here? Rufon. 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. A historic hammered copper 11 piece set. Guess what? Originally $2,000. Babes, I got it. 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 about to be sold out. And no more. Trust and believe I got that 11 piece. Absolutely. I'm, 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? Anything that's Italian. I got it. If someone's like, this is an Italian knife. It's like, I got to get it. Okay. No problem. Dave and Joy Randolph is here. Oh my God. So we just got right into it. We already have all our cookware for, I'm getting every, I trust, and I trust your taste. Please do. Text it to me. I want to see like your first meal. I want to see your first meal made in, I'm literally tearing up. Do you love to cook? I love to cook. Me too. 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? So am I. Yeah. She cooked. Yeah, but it was like, yeah, she didn't cook. Like holidays maybe. Then she showed out. Yeah. And she was busy working. But so I didn't really know how to cook. And I thought in my forties, I was like, I just not going to be able to cook. 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. Because I'm really impressed. I think you're so talented. Thank you. And so naturally talented and so such a good actress and so funny. And those, and such a good singer. Like you do so many things so well. Thanks. And your career is a lot of like, I'm going to try that a lot of, like, yeah, a lot of maybe I should try that. Hold on. What's over here? Maybe I should try that. Still. Still cooking. Yeah. Why not? Right. Yeah. So a lot of people 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. And that was where that was kind of like the door you walked through. Sure. Yep. I liked it. I like to ask this to people who have beautiful voices. When did you, 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 you heard it? No. 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 are 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 tourist Gemini. So like I'm a very focused Gemini that wants all the options. Like even as a kid, it wasn't like, and you are a singer. Like I was the poster child for after school programs. I did it all. Yeah. And I liked, 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 and like trying on these different people and not staying one with one for too, too long. But that's also my life. It's people telling me like, no, no, for real though, you really could. Like I thought I've always thought like I'm decent and it's taking people who I've really admired to be like, no, there's something there and keep going or keep pushing that direction. That's amazing. 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. And can really like, can I ask you a question? To me, when I watch you work, to me, it seems as if there is a natural ease in what you do. Would you say that that's true? Thank you for saying that. I think I would hope that it feels some version of like that I'm not trying or striving too hard, but it did take definitely like directors and teachers and stuff to be like, no, you're funny. Keep going. Like just to keep going part. To keep going part. Yeah. And as you know, too, a lot of it is like, we know, I know people way funnier than me and a way better actor than me, better singer, but half of the battle is just not given 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 and being like, I'm just going to try to make it. 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 got to talk to you about your Boston accent. 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, they don't like the O's are real. Yeah. Miles Teller does that. He has a Philly accent. Yeah. And I'm like, what? Hoagie. Yeah. And you, and you guys. And then these guys. I can't even do it. Yeah. So Philly, you go to, you start studying music, your parents are teachers 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 like competitive women. Yeah. Respect all the way. 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. And my dad really was manifesting and wishing for the first one to be a boy. So 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 Interlocking. And my brain went do, do, do, do, do. And I went home. I will go there. I will dominate it. Interlocking. I will win it. That's literally what I said to my mom. And she was like, okay. I had no idea what this thing was. And I explained what it was like that camp. Oh my God, Interlocking is one of the most magical places. I'm not even kidding. I would recommend any parent who has a child that has remote interests 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. Like budding. It taught me to respect and revere. You know what I mean? Like in everyday life, it's not, I don't know, maybe now of these generations, it's cool to be an artist. But like me growing up, it was kind of like, oh yeah, you do that. Other stuff too. 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. And so that was a moment, 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. That's hard. 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 have a natural gift keep going. Had you seen any opera before that? No. I know. I feel like opera is this thing that you only see like, what is like a, it just, it's just like a field trip. It's a field trip. It's so funny. I love how we, when we grew up, like, well, 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 because Beverly Sills, who was a very famous opera singer was sang opera on the Muppets. And Queen. 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 be 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, three humans. But it's really them. I was upset. I tried. Who was your favorite Muppet? Piggy. Are you kidding? Yeah, I know. She's the best. That lady literally, lady. That lady, that lady owes me a lot of money. I am who I am today 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. You do your thing, be fabulous. You don't change who you are. I was like, yup, yup, yup, yup. 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. And 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 that thing was coming back, I just said, please. And they said, m-m-m. The other place that I saw opera was Queen in Bohemian Rhapsody. Sure. I was like, oh, I'm sorry. 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? In meat, 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. And you get to wear beautiful gowns. For 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, they may do like two, three opera. So I was like, this is a nice lifestyle. It is not a Broadway schedule. No, ma'am. Mm-mm. Are you, does opera is, do you have to kind of like pick like an athlete? Do you have to pick your role? Like, the voice part kind of dictates it. So what is your voice? What are you? So I'm considered a baby dramatic soprano, which means like, I don't know. That's what they say. A baby. I was like, well, I always have the baby part, even as I get older. I don't know, maybe. Baby. But it's like, basically it's like, so Leontine Press, 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 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. We were there at the same time. Quinta Bronson and... Did 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 and there's a musical theater department. So, so anyways, I went to Temple and we were doing Aida. 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 to, 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 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 you 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 be very long story short. The music department got ultra pissed. 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 like territorial over it and they flunked me out. Exquise me. Yep. And it was my mom that I'm like balling on the phone. This is like my junior spring. Oh, no. I'm not going to be in Italy. Like live my best life. And my mom was like, go across the street. I'll never. Because she talked so, you know how moms are when their child is like devastated. And she was like, step one, go across the street, go speak to the administration. You're going to apply to the theater program because most of your credits can transfer. And I actually think you might be good at it. That's literally how she said it was like, but she knew I needed logic first. Like. 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, I remember they told 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, they're crying. And they were like, you are, you are. Exactly. And then you got really into Shakespeare, right? You did a lot of Shakespeare later. Yeah, later. So when I got into Yale, 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 have the meaning like, is that more comedic? Is it? It is kind of more interesting that what you're saying is like, there's like, there's Shakespeare and then. Yeah. It wasn't me reciting like Hamlet where it was like, okay, you just stay. And I was standing there and delivering this speech. It was like this straw to Tanya's like 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 was that. But like, I'm saying in the sense of like, I wasn't doing Hamlet. Do you want to do more Shakespeare? So I went to after my first year, 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. Holy shit. At Oxford, which I couldn't believe it. We literally ate lunch. We're Harry Potter ate lunch. Like I remember walking in there being like, oh my God, I made it. Yeah. And I was, it was just so cool because I learned Shakespeare like, wow, people will 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. I was fine. I bet. And it gives 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 with inform. 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. 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 ADR is one of the most traumatic. Oh yeah. Also ADR is 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, why do I look like that? I guess I'm a hundred years old. It just, it's seeing your face for the first time in a thing that isn't finished. And you have to record new stuff and it's brutal. It's brutal. I always, I used to call my mom crying after it. Mama looks ugly. She was like, go across the street. Yeah. Take that breath. You are okay. You are not the character. You serve the character. Your mom is really good at calling me. 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, then after that, I could be mixing this up because I was now gone, but was then Yaya. Then after that was Mama Duke. Like it just was, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do. Wow. Yeah. Wow. That's intense. That's intense. To go from that to talk about 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 sense. So, I was, 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, but it was theater. But 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, okay, I'm going to Nanny. So I Nanny'd for this amazing family and it was amazing because I worked the system because I was broke. Mm-hmm. And I said, listen, as a curator of arts, your children need to go to five star hotels and experience what that is like. And desserts. And I need to go with them. Really nice places and we need to teach them how to eat out of five. Literally. And they were like, okay. And literally, can you imagine two little white boys and me like, at a table and they're like, Mr. Fyatt. Because just in case their friends are here watching, I got to make this look credible. That's so smart. Oh, it was so much fun. So smart. And then you go, I love that job. How do you get the job? So they were like, oh, this is an audition for the like understudy, understudy is swing. And so they were like, 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. They made me audition for 75% of that musical. Wow. In the room. Like I had my sides. And then they were like, here. Here's more. Cold read. Wow. 75% of the musical. And you nailed it. It was just a drill in. Yes. But one thing that was a blessing in the curse, I was on a high. Like my body was just boo-joo-boo-joo-boo. I said, speaking of belting high, baby, I belted high that day. Uh-oh. And then they wrote it. Because it was an original musical. So they were like, oh, she wants a belt and F? Never be good at something you don't want to do. Pace yourself. Because eight shows a night and they were basically up there. I was like, no, we're going to have to bring it down. So I did that audition in August. I didn't hear anything for two days. I'm not thinking about it. It's the understudies, understudies, understudies. My team then hits me up and is like, you booked it? And I'm like, oh, OK, cool. And I was bummed because I was like, I got to tell these kids. I got to leave them. And then 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 were like, why are you not more excited, my team? And I was like, because you it's just whatever. Like if everyone gets sick, then maybe I'll go on. They were like, yeah, we lied. You are playing whoopie 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. Wow. 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. Yeah. So I started crying. And I was like, but do I get to spend days with my parents? And you know, ages. Are you done? You made it. You're going to less than. You've worked with so many great people. Yeah. And you talk about them a lot. And you talk about Robin Williams. 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? But I'm so grateful. There's something that I notice in legendary comedians specifically. Robin had it. Eddie had it. 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 tap me on my shoulder and be like, hey. 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 a week. I literally just sat there and listened to everything that that man said to me. And I will, even in the moment while he was talking to me, I was like, 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 it was unbelievable. And he just poured into me. And it would just be like in between the takes. He would just be like blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, and then, you know, they really just go into this thing. But yeah, if I would say career wise, he was the first person that was like, you've got. What an anointing from someone like that. And then you worked with Eddie on Dolomite. And same thing. Eddie really took you under his wing. He really did. He really did. And something that was interesting, so like differences. 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 his thoughts are so loud when he's not talking that even when you stand next to him, it's like, da, da, da, da, da, da, da, da, da. And I'm just like, I can feel like almost like having coffee. Like you just feel this buzz being next to him. And it just was like, brrr. And with Eddie, something that I learned. And it was interesting to 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, OK, this is your rhythm. And this is how you work that Ivan adjusted. And then I was like, OK, so I'm not going to talk much. Well, that feels like your musical training comes in there because you're picking exactly what you said, rhythm and breath and energy, like the dynamics. 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, it feels like jump rope of like, I'm jumping in and I'm jumping out. You know what I mean? Learning that kind of pacing. And but it was after that he really kind of prepared me for the industry in that when we did, like we had a full blown press tour. And he was like, 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 would be like, what is this crazy machine of things? And so in a more chill way, I got to experience it. I got to see what insane fame looks like. Which is scary to me. That's really intense. We'll get ready for it. Sorry. But no, no, no. You mentioned the holdovers. I just have to say to you that film, 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. 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. Even if you have a house full of people or whatever you 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 depicted that mother and that movie is one of my favorite cinematic performances. I love you in that movie. Congratulations on winning the Academy Award. Thanks, ma'ams. And I'm so deserved. Thank you. And just so 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. He just like keeps hitting their head against the wall. 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. Yeah, inside. Everything is painful. And he's dying inside. It was so funny. Yeah. You know why we're filming. And I'm like, wow, we're really doing it. He's like, I hate it. Not he hates acting. No. But do you know what I mean? That's why he's so funny. That's why he's so good at it. Because he doesn't. He'll put himself in like risky, like inside his anxiety is through the roof. Yes. And he's like, I feel it. We feel it with him. And the trio of you three like unexpected friends. Yeah. Like, you know, like a random family. Yeah. Yeah. So good. What kind of prep did you do for that role? So it was interesting when, because I love cooking, 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, first ask Alexander, I said, is she the help or is she a learned chef? 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 where we're going to say chef. If you're saying she has an education, she's a chef. Right. And so 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 prowess over this area. Yeah. Right. And so, and I remember there was like, there was, 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, 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? 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-libbed this line in the movie where I'm like, to the white lady, too much paprika. Because on my mind, I was like, no, no, no, she can taste it and be like, too much paprika because I wanted to show. A lot of it had to do with the time period. That's right. 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 thing that Alexander was the most. Thank you for sharing that with me. I just have to say. Yeah, yeah, totally. Just to take a minute, I love knowing that because I couldn't capture what you're exactly what you're saying, which is 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, moo, moo, most of the movie. Because he was like, it's the holidays. And I was like, no, she has so much pride. She's working. She may be, they might be in like shared living quarters, but she's working. She wakes up. This is her job. And so it was something that we had to like negotiate for him to realize. No, this isn't just Auntie with the, you know what I mean? Yeah. With Uncle Buck and whatever. It gives such incredible tension because that is her space. And in the scene when she's serving and when she, when everyone is eating her food that she's good at cooking and Paul's character standing up for her. Yeah, 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 you know the volume in which Paul yelled, she heard it. Yes. You know what 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 science. You can tell the level of addiction or how many years that I'm not going to say addiction. It is an addiction. Yeah. Let's say it. How long you've been in the game? Ooh, 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 is it 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. You're so right. Because a person that has their one cigarette a week, it's tight and they're enjoying every minute. I'm thinking about the girls outside the club. Sure. Like bumming it from someone else. But someone who's like, oh, there's 100 more where that came from. It'll fall out. They'd pick it up. Whatever. I'm going to 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 times and what she's going through. I wanted the smoking to signify what psychologically was going on for her. And then the biggest, the two most difficult things about filming and smoking, timing of knowing how to pace between the talking and when to pull. Right. Yeah. And blowing that smoke so it's not in your face for the camera unless there's some moments where you want it to get in or not like directing that smoke was tricky. Ooh, I can. 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. And I was going to be like, mm-mm. 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. OK, 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 Kimmins, dialect coach, who's the best and so down the earth. But yeah, I said no, no, no, no, no. So what did you have to learn about me? 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, I needed something to differentiate and to separate from me. 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. What was his name? Hava? Mr. Hunnam. Mr. Hunnam, I heard you. Mr. That first scene. Mr. Hunnam. When they meet. And then she's like, Mr. Hunnam, I'm paraphrasing. She's like, Mr. Hunnam, I heard you had babysitting duty. How'd you manage that? And that was like my key phrase. Yes. That I would get right in. Babysitting. Yeah. Babysitting. How'd you manage that? What was helpful was the crew was all Boston. Oh, yeah. So I would literally. I'd be like, eh. Yeah, no shame. I was like, did I say that right? You didn't get it. Because Boston and me, you know, our ears are attuned. To me, it's like the Australian accent. For sure. For sure. When it's wrong, it is rough. Yeah. And so what I 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, we're going to leave it alone. Yeah. Smart. And smart. Yeah, it worked. And I was like, OK. But in between still, I literally, in between takes the gaffer, I'm like, is it smart? Smart? Smart. Yeah. And they be like, smart. And I'm like, OK, smart, 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, I kind of didn't want to sign on the dial on until I knew who that person was. And it just didn't work out that way. And I never get we were in, like, what do they call it? Camera testing. We were camera testing. And I was 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. And easy. Really easy. You guys are great together. He has the stuff that's up there in that brain. Mm-hmm. And it's so much. 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 ha's? 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. 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, I'm really sweating because I, I so. But it's infectious. It is. 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's got to do second button. I feel seen. And then it goes and it just goes and my always I'm like, very present. But and that's usually when the camera cuts to me. Oh, that's so real. Yeah. And you're right. And then once someone does a button, someone's like, I got a button, that button. And it never ends. I just sit there. But yeah, he didn't have any of that. Yeah. But so I don't think he ever repeated a joke. Hmm. 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 felt like was, let me tell you something. How long ago? In 10 days. Oh, yeah. It's perfect. And if you tell me different, I'll fight you. That and my best. Because it's so funny. It's so emotional. Baby, that scene when they're out in Staten Island, playing that card game, I'm bawling. Because you really make me want to watch that again. It's been a minute. OK. I like it too, because it's a relatable New York couple. You know some of those New York romcoms, you're like, well, I'm never going to be in that penthouse. Oh, yeah. The apartments. Or the boss. And I love how it was like they were regular New Yorkers. And that Staten Island, I forget what it is, Staten Island, 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 they're like rainy day, delicious treats. Yeah. And OK, so we have this thing where we talk to people who know our guests. We talk well behind their back. We get a question for them. So we talked to the director of Eternity, David Frayne. And we got to talk about how incredible it was working with you. And he was explaining, which 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 he says like it just as a director just makes you feel like everything is going to work out like everything. You know, that's wonderful. And he had two questions for you. One was where do you think you find the calm or as he said, the calm? Yeah, the calm. Because he had a great accent. Where did you find the calm? Yeah. But the so that was his first question is like, is that true? Are you feeling like when you step in work, there's a calmness to you? Is people project that on you? Is that real? I think it's 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. Yeah. But then I'm very open to what is the direction? What are you giving me? What do you mean? What is it going to be in this? I know her. And you could tell me, we're going to go on Mars. Great, we're going on Mars. What's that going to be? Yeah. So there's that. There's also to I'm very well aware of, like, it's interesting how leads speak of, like, their role of leadership and I am aware that part of my role is to not say anything out loud, but to reassure and to, like, nurture a little, but, like, create a foundation. That's really interesting. As yeah, not to name drop, but I will have 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, which is. Knowing what is needed for the room and she used the term thermometer, like, is it too hot? Same with every scene. That's a giving support of a 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. Yeah. And I think that's also why I've been able to work with the type of people I've gotten to work with, because I think it's that mixed in with they then fill a reassurance to them be their best selves. 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 then I'll be like gone for a year and then we'll catch up for, like, press and then do the next year. And he always is like, God, 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, yeah, I think it is a bit of that. And then I think also there is a like, I do still suffer with imposter syndrome in this format. Like when we have to talk about it, but I don't when we're doing it. If that makes sense. That does. But it's but it's a quiet, maybe that's what I 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. Yeah, disassociating. Yeah. It's great. I highly recommend it. I love it. You're like, I'm on the ceiling, babe. I nothing can touch me. Nope. I'm not here. And we're doing it. I wasn't even there. Yeah. And I have that sometimes. Me too. And it's a lot when I'm performing. And it's what you're saying is like a technique to get past exactly. We said the fear and adrenaline. And I don't know if you're like this, but I can get nervous after I do something. Yeah. I get through it. And then like an hour later, I'm like, yeah, did we do it? Did we get it? It all starts to shake out because yeah, I wasn't really there. Yeah. I want to finish with a very quick speed round. If you can give me a sense 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 with like the youngest people on set. 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 what real coffee cups look like in New York. Like, why is it? I think it was like red and you know, it's supposed to be like 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, get it right. And we'll wait in a very polite, but professional and strong way. And I was like, she's got it. OK, speed round. Yeah, I'm talking. Monologue. Al Pacino. Oh, yeah. So Al Pacino, I was telling you, you're getting good ones. And you're like, speed round. Al Pacino on Broadway, stressed out, voice tired, eating soup in like this little French bistro, he randomly is there. 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. 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 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. We get to the shoot and there's a ladder there. And I'm like, oh, my God, oh, my God, because I knew he was going to be in this shoot because it was like the Irish man. And I was like, yo, if they put me on this ladder and they're like placing everyone so they play out. He's next to the ladder. And I said, please, please, please, because they just still got to put like Laura Dern and Scarlett Johansson sounds like, yo, I want that ladder. And they put me in the ladder. I'm balling the entire photo shoot. And I'm like looking down at him and I'm like, how do you remember the ladder? Did you ask him and did he know? No, no, no. But I'm like, it's the ladder. And he's like, all right, honey, like whatever. But in my mind, I was like full circle. I'm on the ladder and I'm looking at you and you said it was going to happen. Oh my God, that's a perfect story. And then Stephen Sondheim. I miss him. I know that sounds so crazy. Doesn't. But it's like he was like the modern. He. OK, 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 to sing beautiful, beautiful songs. To me, it's like the purest for me and my taste, one of the purest ways of expressing musical theater. And in college, we did into the woods and I played the witch. And I was like, OK, I think I like this stuff. Can you sing a little bit of it? Guys, I was so crazy. You don't. I'm so. This is wait. But what's the song when she's like a little Steve anything from Steven? A Sondheim, what is the one the one that the witch want me to get it on my laptop? But what I'm going to look up the lyrics. This is crazy. I sing for. And I'm going to order that William Sonoba. Please do it. Please do it. Please order immediately. I'm not kidding you. I thought about it the entire time. Yeah, you guys didn't see it, but it has a wooden bowl with a hunter green hopper. OK. Um, what are we looking up? Where are the clouds? Send in the clouds. Thanks, Ben. Oh, only for you literally. Thank you. Thank you. Years. Oh, no, years. OK, I appreciate you. I appreciate you. And the world needs to hear your voice. So 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 bio pick on Leontine Price and just like, OK, we're doing it. Oh, yeah. The band aid off. Everybody. To singing. Listen, everybody listening. Let's make that happen. Yeah. God, that would be amazing. I think that'd be fun. And then my last question is because you're so funny, times and times are stressful. We ask a lot of our guests what they listen to read, go to, to laugh. What it like, is there anything right now that you're watching, consuming, like a like a dumb video, a TV show? What's making you laugh? It really makes me. I did a podcast with Royal Court. Oh, Brittany. 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 got. 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. Are you like that? Do you sometimes sometimes I'm like, I don't want to be I don't want I painted or like I don't want a lot of comedy. In fact, I mean, one of the reasons why the kind of intention behind this podcast is to me, the way 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. I can't watch because I'm judging it. I can't watch contemporary stuff because I'm like, my friends in that her hair looks crazy. You know, I mean, like, why did they do? So I like to watch older things. And so I mean, you can't beat a 90s comic, which I feel like is a lot of stuff that you've done. But like a 90s comedy is just so good. Like 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. It that's one of one of the best 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. I'm here for the girl. The girl don't like you. Nobody likes you. You came all the way over here for nothing. You ain't gonna be a nice man. He's rich. He's funny. He's funny. And isn't it funny how people get so like you touch the radio? This is not even your car. Don't touch the radio. I mean, also, I love when people are give it to give it to somebody straight. And they're like, I don't like you. It really makes me laugh. Nobody gets to say that in real life. No, no. Comedy lets you say stuff you could never say. Yeah, just deadpan. And walk away. She doesn't like you. Just not into you. Sorry. Well, Dave, I love you. I adore you. And I think we should be friends. Yes. Please. And I think we should buy various things together. I'm gonna 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 gotta get all the pots. Okay, good. That's what I was hoping for. I mean. And then like when you cook something in there, text it to me. Oh, I would love to. And I'm gonna 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. You saw what the price used to be. Why would you? It's the, but is that ready that you speak about? There's that urgency of. I gotta get it. There's only five left. Yeah. It's such a lie. 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 thingies? Pasta with thingy. What was saying? Like, so when you get that, you can then also for I think it's like 9999 get the attachment has to then make fresh pasta. What pasta making machine or the thing. So you get the kitchen made. Thank you for coming. We're going to get. We're going to go shopping. Kitchen made. You just take the head off and then attach the pasta, different things. Or 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 fight. Thank you so much. Dave. I enjoy Randolph. You were so fun and I love talking to you and and I'm so blown away by your challenge. I'm blown away by 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 the Shakespeare globe theater or a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and then Royal National Theater. She performed at 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 no one has for me. So I don't know if you're on your phone right now and do you want to type her name in? And you're going to see videos of her playing Hamlet and Richard the third. Incredible. Okay. 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. You've been listening to Good Hang. The executive producers for this show are Bill Simmons, Jenna Weisberman and me, Amy Poehler. The show is produced by The Ringer and Paper Kite. For The Ringer, production by Jack Wilson, Katz Villain, Kaya McMullen and Aleah Zanaris. For Paper Kite, production by Sam Green, Joel Lovell and Jenna Weisberman. Original music by Amy Miles.