Podcast Summary: Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend
Episode: Bob Odenkirk Returns
Release Date: August 11, 2025

Introduction and Reunion

Timestamp: [00:03 - 07:27]

Conan O’Brien kicks off the episode by reminiscing about the challenges of building lasting friendships despite his numerous celebrity interviews over 25 years. He introduces Bob Odenkirk as a longtime friend and esteemed guest. The conversation delves into their shared history, highlighting their first meeting in 1988 at Saturday Night Live and the unique "weird twin language" that bonded them.

Conan O’Brien ([07:24]): "Bob and I would just hide in an office and talk gibberish to each other."

Bob’s Broadway Success

Timestamp: [07:27 - 11:24]

Conan expresses immense pride in Bob's recent Tony-nominated performance in the play Glengarry Glen Ross. He reflects on Bob's evolution from a comedic writer and actor to a respected Broadway performer, praising his ability to blend humor with deep emotional impact.

Conan O’Brien ([10:42]): "I was watching you on this huge stage on Broadway. Everyone, you know, applause when the curtain comes up, you have this scene. Your opening scene is incredible."

Bob shares insights into his preparation for the role, discussing the influence of Robert Smigel and the importance of balancing comedy with the play's serious undertones. He also touches on his experience working on Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad, emphasizing the rigorous training and dedication required.

Bob Odenkirk ([11:03]): "The first thing I did with the Saul script and really with the Breaking Bad script was I just deconstructed it like a writer."

Creative Processes and Collaborations

Timestamp: [11:24 - 18:53]

The duo delves into the intricacies of acting and improvisation, highlighting their mutual appreciation for each other's creative talents. Conan shares anecdotes about their improvisational attempts and the challenge of maintaining authenticity on stage.

Conan O’Brien ([04:17]): "Possible. Yeah. You could be the Oppenheimer of improv."

Bob discusses the humor embedded in Glengarry Glen Ross, crediting fellow actors like Bill Burr and Michael McKean for bringing depth and laughter to the production. They explore the balance between comedic elements and the play's dramatic essence.

Bob Odenkirk ([18:14]): "We get so many laughs with this thing. And a lot of it. I give a lot of credit to Bill Burr because."

Personal Struggles and Healing

Timestamp: [30:27 - 37:20]

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Bob opens up about his heart attack in 2021. He recounts the terrifying experience, detailing the swift actions of his colleagues and the critical medical interventions that saved his life. Conan expresses deep concern and admiration for Bob's resilience.

Conan O’Brien ([32:10]): "But I have to go from that to this, which is in 2021. I remember where I was, but I suddenly."

Bob describes the physical and emotional aftermath, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and living in the present. He reflects on how the ordeal reshaped his perspective on life and work.

David Cross ([41:03]): "You should feel this every day because this is true, too. It's true that our world is filled with concern and worry..."

Work on Nobody and Future Projects

Timestamp: [37:20 - 53:22]

Bob discusses his role in the Nobody movie franchise, highlighting the realistic and gritty portrayal of action sequences. He shares behind-the-scenes insights into the choreography and the emotional depth of his character, showcasing his growth as an action star.

David Cross ([45:17]): "And I have an opportunity to leave. I could walk away, and I don't."

Conan praises the authenticity of Bob's performances, comparing them to classic action heroes while appreciating the human vulnerability depicted. They humorously speculate about future installments and potential collaborations.

Conan O’Brien ([50:58]): "But you just want to do stuff and you don't know what to do, and you decide to just stay in your hotel..."

Personal Life and Family

Timestamp: [53:22 - 66:59]

The discussion shifts to Bob's personal life, including his recent move to a new home and his relationship with his family. Bob talks about adjusting to his new environment and the joys of parenting, while Conan shares humorous anecdotes about interactions with Bob's family.

Bob Odenkirk ([60:00]): "I have, you know, I know I talked a lot about my parents and how hard it was to live with them..."

Conan and Bob engage in playful banter about parenting challenges, societal expectations, and the humorous side of raising children, intertwining personal stories with lighthearted jokes.

Conan O’Brien ([65:05]): "I was taking a ride. I was back. I was back from my college reunion..."

Closing Remarks and Friendship

Timestamp: [67:06 - End]

As the episode nears its end, Conan reflects on Bob's significant impact on his early career and their enduring friendship. He expresses heartfelt gratitude for Bob's support and achievements, celebrating his friend's successes both on and off the stage.

Conan O’Brien ([72:00]): "Bob, I'm so happy for you... Have a nice day. Have a nice week."

Bob reciprocates the sentiments, emphasizing the strength of their bond and the mutual respect they share. The episode concludes with light-hearted exchanges and affirmations of their lasting friendship.

Bob Odenkirk ([75:00]): "Thank you, buddy."

Notable Quotes:

• Conan O’Brien ([07:24]): "Bob and I would just hide in an office and talk gibberish to each other."

• Conan O’Brien ([10:42]): "I was watching you on this huge stage on Broadway. Everyone, you know, applause when the curtain comes up, you have this scene. Your opening scene is incredible."

• David Cross ([45:17]): "And I have an opportunity to leave. I could walk away, and I don't."

• Conan O’Brien ([32:10]): "But I have to go from that to this, which is in 2021. I remember where I was, but I suddenly."

• Conan O’Brien ([65:05]): "I was taking a ride. I was back. I was back from my college reunion..."

Conclusion

In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Conan O’Brien reconnects with Bob Odenkirk, celebrating his friend's theatrical accomplishments while delving into personal anecdotes and shared memories. Their candid conversation highlights the depth of their friendship, the resilience of Bob in the face of adversity, and the mutual admiration that has sustained their relationship over decades. Listeners gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of both comedians, making this episode a standout installment of Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend.