Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Episode: Nick Kroll Returns
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Introduction
In this special episode of Armchair Expert, host Dax Shepard welcomes back the beloved comedian, actor, and writer Nick Kroll after a seven-year hiatus. Joined by co-host Monica Padman, the trio dives deep into Nick's multifaceted career, personal journeys, and the evolving dynamics of friendship and creativity.
Nick Kroll's Flourishing Career
Dax Shepard opens the conversation by highlighting Nick Kroll's impressive array of projects:
Dax Shepard [00:24]: "Nick Kroll, an actor, a writer, a comedian, a producer. He does it all."
Nick discusses the culmination of his work on the hit animated series Big Mouth, which recently concluded its eighth and final season:
Nick Kroll [26:41]: "Nobody Wants This Now has been on for 10 seasons."
He expresses pride in the show's longevity and its evolution over the years, emphasizing how the characters' physical and emotional growth kept the series fresh and engaging.
Diverse Projects and Upcoming Endeavors
Beyond Big Mouth, Nick is actively involved in several other projects:
- Adults: An FX show premiering on Hulu and FX on May 28, 2025.
- New Movie: Nobody Wants It, set to release on June 6, 2025.
Nick shares insights into his new movie, detailing its blend of romantic comedy and thriller elements, inspired by real-life experiences and collaborative storytelling with his longtime friend Andrew Rannells.
Nick Kroll [57:00]: "Making the movie was not a mistake at all. I'm really proud of the movie. I love it."
He also teases future projects, including a new animated series titled Mating Season, which promises to explore themes of dating and relationships with the same comedic flair as his previous works.
Personal Reflections: Time, Growth, and Sobriety
The conversation shifts to more personal territory as Nick reflects on the perception of time:
Nick Kroll [09:06]: "Time is moving at a rapid pace. Every day is shorter, fractionally less."
Both Dax and Nick discuss how aging and life changes—such as starting a family—alter their relationship with time and decision-making processes.
A significant portion of the episode delves into Nick's battle with addiction and the heartbreaking intervention orchestrated by him and Dax to help a close friend, Aaron. This candid discussion highlights the complexities of supporting loved ones through addiction while managing personal responsibilities.
Nick Kroll [39:38]: "It was incredibly stressful to be in the midst of the pandemic, trying to coordinate and produce an intervention."
Monica shares her experiences and the emotional toll of witnessing loved ones struggle, adding depth to the conversation about mental health and sobriety.
The Enduring Friendship Between Dax and Nick
A heartfelt segment explores the longevity and strength of Dax and Nick's friendship, which has withstood the test of time, professional challenges, and personal growth.
Nick Kroll [32:43]: "It's been both gratifying comedically and artistically, but on a human level. So, so unbelievably gratifying to reunite with your best friend from childhood."
They reminisce about their early collaborations, mutual support, and the joy of working together creatively after decades apart.
Creative Processes and Collaborative Dynamics
Nick and Dax delve into the nuances of creative collaboration, particularly in writing and producing content. Nick highlights the importance of perseverance in the creative process:
Nick Kroll [25:19]: "You have to keep sculpting it and polishing it and editing it over and over for it to actually work."
They discuss the balance between individual creativity and collaborative synergy, emphasizing how their partnership enhances their respective projects.
Reflections on Health and Parenthood
The trio touches upon the challenges of maintaining health amidst busy careers and parenting responsibilities. Nick candidly talks about dealing with chronic health issues while balancing professional obligations.
Nick Kroll [21:37]: "I try to avoid antibiotics because I'm RFK till I die, which I think will be sooner than I think."
Monica and Dax share their experiences navigating parenthood, the emotional complexities of family dynamics, and the relentless passage of time.
Future Outlook and Closing Thoughts
As the episode winds down, Nick expresses excitement for his upcoming projects and the continued growth of his creative ventures. The friends offer each other encouragement and reflections on the journey they've shared.
Nick Kroll [48:24]: "It's incredibly gratifying to reunite and create something spectacular together."
Dax and Monica reinforce the themes of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of friendship that underpin the episode.
Notable Quotes
- Nick Kroll [09:06]: "Time is moving at a rapid pace. Every day is shorter, fractionally less."
- Nick Kroll [25:19]: "You have to keep sculpting it and polishing it and editing it over and over for it to actually work."
- Nick Kroll [32:43]: "It's been both gratifying comedically and artistically, but on a human level. So, so unbelievably gratifying to reunite with your best friend from childhood."
- Nick Kroll [39:38]: "It was incredibly stressful to be in the midst of the pandemic, trying to coordinate and produce an intervention."
- Nick Kroll [57:00]: "Making the movie was not a mistake at all. I'm really proud of the movie. I love it."
Conclusion
This episode of Armchair Expert provides an intimate glimpse into Nick Kroll's dynamic career and personal life. From concluding a successful animated series to embarking on new creative projects and navigating personal challenges, Nick's journey is both inspiring and relatable. The heartfelt discussions with Dax and Monica underscore the significance of friendship, resilience, and continuous growth in both professional and personal realms.
Listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for Nick Kroll's contributions to comedy and entertainment, as well as the profound connections that sustain individuals through life's myriad challenges.