Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend – Episode: Adam DeVine (Release Date: June 2, 2025)

In this engaging episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, Conan O’Brien sits down with actor and comedian Adam DeVine to explore Adam’s multifaceted career, personal challenges, and journey in the entertainment industry. The conversation delves deep into Adam’s early life, his rise in comedy, significant career milestones, and his experiences balancing personal health with professional commitments.

1. Welcoming Adam DeVine

[02:55] Conan O'Brien: "One of them went in, which was very impressive. You okay?"

Conan introduces Adam DeVine, highlighting his notable roles in Workaholics, Pitch Perfect, and The Righteous Gemstones. The friendly banter sets a light-hearted tone as they engage in playful antics involving popcorn, showcasing the comfortable chemistry between the hosts.

2. Adam’s Early Life and Challenges

[24:54] Adam DeVine: "Yep. Kablamoed."

Adam shares a harrowing childhood experience where he was severely injured in a bike accident involving a cement truck. The incident resulted in multiple surgeries and a lengthy recovery period, profoundly impacting his life trajectory.

[25:19] Adam DeVine: "I was on my bike. My legs are... a little better, but it was half the leg."

He details the extent of his injuries, including broken bones and punctured ribs, emphasizing the resilience required to overcome such adversity.

3. Transition to Comedy

[30:21] Adam DeVine: "Exactly. And this was sixth and seventh grade."

During his recovery, Adam found solace and a new path in making people laugh. He recounts how his creative antics on the phone led to opportunities in radio, paving the way for his future in comedy.

4. Building His Career

[36:34] Adam DeVine: "Yeah, that is true."

Discussing his transition from Workaholics to films like Pitch Perfect, Adam reflects on auditions and unexpected career shifts. His candidness about not fully understanding the roles he was auditioning for adds a relatable and humorous touch to the narrative.

[38:54] Adam DeVine: "Well, I'm learning the more... Yeah."

He emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed and not over-preparing, which contrasts with the high-pressure environment of the entertainment industry.

5. Personal Health Struggles

[32:43] Adam DeVine: "The physically, no. Up until maybe three years ago..."

Adam opens up about his recent diagnosis with stiff person syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects his mobility and daily life. He discusses the challenges of managing his health while maintaining his career, highlighting his dedication to physical therapy and other treatments.

[33:12] Adam DeVine: "Which is essentially like a death sentence for the most part."

The conversation touches on the emotional and physical toll of his condition, showcasing Adam’s perseverance and positive outlook despite significant health hurdles.

6. Insights into Acting and Creativity

[40:38] Adam DeVine: "I feel like I'm definitely way more prepared in the things I do now."

Adam shares his approach to acting and creativity, emphasizing the value of not becoming overly attached to one opportunity and remaining open to diverse experiences. His anecdotes about surreal moments in his career, such as hosting the MTV Movie Awards, illustrate the unpredictable nature of show business.

7. Collaborations and Relationships in Hollywood

[46:46] Adam DeVine: "No. No. I think he, like, knew Workaholics a little bit..."

The discussion shifts to Adam’s relationship with Danny McBride and their collaboration on The Righteous Gemstones. Adam describes the camaraderie and mutual respect within the cast, highlighting how these relationships have enriched his professional life.

[47:41] Adam DeVine: "It's a very funny movie. And so we were at the after party..."

He recounts his first meeting with Danny McBride at an after-party, underscoring the importance of networking and forming genuine connections in the entertainment industry.

8. Fatherhood and Personal Growth

[51:13] Adam DeVine: "I mean, I love it more than I even thought I would."

Transitioning to personal life, Adam discusses his experience as a father, sharing heartfelt moments and the joys and challenges that come with raising his son. His humorous take on parenting reflects his ability to balance comedy with sincere emotion.

[52:08] Adam DeVine: "Come on, Dad. I know you got it. You got it."

The episode highlights Adam’s growth both personally and professionally, illustrating how fatherhood has added depth to his character and humor.

9. Reflecting on the Journey

[53:33] Adam DeVine: "Yeah. So it's. It's. It's been a blast. I'm. I'm loving it."

As the conversation winds down, Adam reflects on his journey, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and relationships that have shaped his career. His positive outlook serves as an inspiration for listeners navigating their own paths.

Notable Quotes

• Adam DeVine on Overcoming Adversity:

  • [24:58] "I was hit by a cement truck as a little boy. I was..."

• Conan on Career Pivots:

  • [15:24] "So, again, this proves this idea I have that that wasn't where you're supposed to go. You went where you were supposed to go."

• Adam on Fatherhood:

  • [51:24] "I love it more than I even thought I would."

• Adam on Health Challenges:

  • [32:43] "Up until maybe three years ago, I would say, yeah, it's basically behind me."

Conclusion

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Adam DeVine’s life, showcasing his resilience, humor, and the meaningful relationships that have fueled his success. Listeners gain insight into the personal struggles and triumphs that shape Adam’s career, making it a compelling listen for fans and those interested in the behind-the-scenes journey of a successful comedian and actor.

Join the Conversation:
For more episodes of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, subscribe on Apple Podcasts or visit siriusxm.com/podcastsplus to start your free trial and listen ad-free a week early.