Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend – Episode Featuring Ryan Reynolds
Release Date: May 12, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, Conan is joined by his longtime collaborators Sona Movsesian and Matt Gourley, alongside the charismatic actor Ryan Reynolds. The conversation delves into personal anecdotes, career insights, and the intricacies of the entertainment industry, all infused with Conan's signature humor.
Personal Stories and Background
Sona’s New Beginnings ([02:49]):
Sona shares her recent experience of losing her house to a fire and the subsequent search for a new home. She recounts a heartwarming encounter with a neighbor named Richard, who expressed his appreciation by mentioning that he listens to Conan's show while walking his dog.
Sona Movsesian ([02:58]): "We have, yeah. In fact, I was there yesterday for an inspection and I ran into a really nice man named Richard walking his dog. And he said, I usually listen to you while I'm walking my dog."
Childhood Memories and Honesty ([07:43]–[09:31]):
The conversation shifts to childhood experiences, with Sona and Conan reminiscing about believing a friend's fabricated story about making out with Austin Peck from Days of Our Lives. They discuss the naivety of youth and the impact of honesty within their friend groups.
Conan O'Brien ([08:15]): "Wait, so how old was he at the time?"
Sona Movsesian ([08:00]): "She was like 14."
Career Insights and the Entertainment Industry
Ryan’s Move to LA and Groundlings ([30:11]–[32:40]):
Ryan Reynolds discusses his decision to move to Los Angeles to join the Groundlings, a renowned improv and sketch comedy troupe. He emphasizes the importance of formal training and classes in honing his comedic and acting skills.
Ryan Reynolds ([30:25]): "I did do Groundlings, but I moved to LA to be in Groundlings. And of course, it doesn't work like that. You don't just show up and go, ready for the main stage, everyone."
Collaborative Creativity ([32:42]–[35:58]):
The duo delves into the creative processes behind filmmaking and advertising. Ryan highlights the balance between creativity and commercial constraints, using examples from his experience with Deadpool and Green Lantern.
Ryan Reynolds ([35:58]): "It's gotta stop now, and it's gotta stop now. I've had the Ackroyd voice in my head all day."
Personal Anecdotes and Relationships
Apologies and Personal Growth ([66:36]–[68:49]):
Conan and Ryan reflect on moments where their words may have unintentionally hurt others. They discuss the importance of apologies and personal responsibility, sharing stories from their past to illustrate the complexities of human interactions.
Conan O'Brien ([67:28]): "So you mocked him, and then your apology was to send him the substance that he had successfully kicked me."
Ryan Reynolds ([68:17]): "And I will come in and I'll do it again. Better."
Philosophical Insights and Industry Reflections
Impact of Constraints on Creativity ([37:00]–[39:05]):
Ryan offers a thoughtful perspective on how creative constraints can enhance the quality of work, contrasting his experiences with high-budget films versus more restrained projects like Deadpool. He underscores the value of meaningful storytelling over extravagant special effects.
Ryan Reynolds ([37:00]): "I have some experience under my belt, and I’m listening to. I’m realizing I don’t know as much now as I thought I did then."
The Role of Collaboration ([62:20]–[63:27]):
The conversation highlights the essential role of collaboration in filmmaking. Ryan praises the contributions of his colleagues, emphasizing that filmmaking is a collective effort where every role is vital to the final product.
Ryan Reynolds ([63:56]): "People sort of underestimate how valuable caring is."
Humor and Light-Hearted Banter
Throughout the episode, Conan and Ryan engage in playful exchanges, often veering into humorous territory. They joke about everything from commercials to personal quirks, showcasing their effortless chemistry and mutual respect.
Conan O'Brien ([66:51]): "How did you know?"
Ryan Reynolds ([69:06]): "You're an idol of mine. You are somebody who I've watched and dare I say that the risk of overpraising, look up to and always have, always will, because you're kind, you have integrity..."
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Conan expresses his admiration for Ryan, emphasizing the joy of their friendship and the enriching conversations they share. Ryan reciprocates the sentiment, highlighting Conan's impact on his personal and professional life.
Conan O'Brien ([69:34]): "Ryan, you are so fast and so funny and making so many people happy. And I'm thrilled that we could spend time today and hang out."
Ryan Reynolds ([70:28]): "But you didn't forget my wire numbers. Cayman Islands."
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks and a mutual appreciation for the friendship they've cultivated, exemplifying the podcast's mission to forge genuine connections beyond the typical celebrity interviews.
Notable Quotes:
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Conan O'Brien ([07:45]): "We’re just so gullible. We really. It wasn’t just me. It was like my friend group."
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Ryan Reynolds ([37:00]): "But now, it’s people who are in film are hoping to gain enough respect to get a TV show, right?"
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Conan O'Brien ([65:43]): "I like to do things with people."
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Ryan Reynolds ([70:05]): "You are a deity. Deus. What is that?"
This episode offers a blend of deep personal insights and light-hearted humor, showcasing Ryan Reynolds' genuine personality and his camaraderie with Conan and the team. Listeners can expect an engaging and heartfelt conversation that transcends typical celebrity interviews, embodying the true essence of seeking genuine friendships.