JUDY GREER — on being Hollywood’s BFF, insane auditions and actor envy

Summary

Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson: Episode Summary – Judy Greer

Episode Title: JUDY GREER — on being Hollywood’s BFF, insane auditions and actor envy
Release Date: November 19, 2024

In this engaging episode of Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson, host Jesse Tyler Ferguson sits down with the versatile and beloved actress Judy Greer. Recorded at Botanica in Silver Lake, California, the conversation delves into Judy’s expansive career, personal anecdotes, and insightful perspectives on the entertainment industry.

---

1. Welcoming Judy Greer

The episode begins with Jesse introducing Judy Greer, highlighting her prolific career spanning romantic comedies like 13 Going on 30 and The Wedding Planner to franchise films such as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Jesse expresses his admiration for Judy's ability to elevate every scene she's part of.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson [02:42]: "Her presence just elevates everyone around her so much that when she's not on screen, you notice and you want her back."

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2. Building a Personal Connection

Jesse and Judy reminisce about their time living in Los Angeles, sharing personal stories that highlight their camaraderie and mutual respect.

Judy Greer [05:28]: "Silver Lake, and I was like, oh, my happy place."

They discuss their initial impressions of LA and how Silver Lake became a haven for both, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

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3. Navigating Hollywood: Auditions and Opportunities

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the challenges and triumphs Judy has experienced in her acting career. Judy recounts her initial feelings of jealousy when seeing peers like Maggie Gyllenhaal receive prominent roles, only to realize the doors those roles opened for actors like herself.

Judy Greer [26:20]: "I just like, I love working and I have to eat food."

Jesse echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the shared pressures actors face in the industry.

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4. Memorable Audition Stories

Judy shares a humorous and candid story about her audition mishap for a pilot at Universal.

Judy Greer [29:34]: "I tripped and fell. I caught my boot on a tire stopper, and it cut my boot open. I hurt my knee... I shut the door and stomping back to my car, I hear someone go, 'Judy.' They were like, 'please come back.'"

This anecdote underscores the unpredictable nature of auditions and the resilience required to succeed.

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5. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Judy discusses her latest project, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, sharing her excitement and the process of reconnecting with a beloved story she was previously unaware of.

Judy Greer [39:21]: "I never heard about the book. I never heard about anything until I was told about the project and the role."

Jesse expresses his anticipation for the film, reflecting on his own nostalgic connections to Christmas pageants from his childhood.

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6. Balancing Career and Personal Life

The duo delves into balancing demanding careers with personal lives, with Judy reflecting on her relationship with her husband, Dean Johnson.

Judy Greer [37:42]: "We made our date through voicemails... Open my front door, and there's this tall, handsome guy."

Their conversation highlights the importance of support systems and maintaining authenticity amidst Hollywood's pressures.

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7. Typecasting and Character Depth

Jesse praises Judy's ability to bring nuance to her characters, often portraying "completely unhinged" roles with depth and relatability.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson [31:36]: "You can find nuance in the unhinged that I just find it completely annoying."

Judy responds by discussing how women, in particular, excel at compartmentalizing emotions, adding layers to their performances.

Judy Greer [32:13]: "We have to compartmentalize our lives so quickly... I feel like all my girlfriends are like this."

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8. The Unseen Challenges

Judy opens up about dealing with public perceptions and the sometimes conflicting feedback from fans and strangers.

Judy Greer [35:27]: "I wrote a book called I Don't Know What You Know Me From because I've had people... 'Nobody knows who you are, but I do.' And I'm like, not a compliment."

This segment sheds light on the often overlooked emotional aspects of fame.

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9. Future Projects and Aspirations

Wrapping up the conversation, Judy shares her enthusiasm for upcoming projects and her dedication to roles that resonate with audiences.

Judy Greer [40:23]: "I'm a sucker for cool shots. Like, me too."

Their discussion emphasizes the continuous pursuit of creative fulfillment and the joy of storytelling.

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Conclusion

Jesse and Judy’s heartfelt and humorous exchange offers listeners a deep dive into the life of a dedicated actress navigating the complexities of Hollywood. From audition blunders to personal triumphs, Judy Greer exemplifies resilience and passion in her craft. This episode not only celebrates her achievements but also provides valuable insights for aspiring actors and fans alike.

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Notable Quotes:

• Jesse Tyler Ferguson [02:42]: "Her presence just elevates everyone around her so much that when she's not on screen, you notice and you want her back."

• Judy Greer [26:20]: "I just like, I love working and I have to eat food."

• Judy Greer [29:34]: "I tripped and fell. I caught my boot on a tire stopper, and it cut my boot open. I hurt my knee... I shut the door and stomping back to my car, I hear someone go, 'Judy.' They were like, 'please come back.'"

• Judy Greer [35:27]: "I wrote a book called I Don't Know What You Know Me From because I've had people... 'Nobody knows who you are, but I do.' And I'm like, not a compliment."

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Stay Tuned: Next week on Dinner’s on Me, Jesse welcomes Patrick J. Adams, known for Suits, Orphan Black, and Accused. They will discuss his Broadway experience, his new podcast Sidebar, and personal challenges he has overcome. Don’t miss out—subscribe to Dinner’s on Me PLUS for early access and an ad-free experience!

Produced by Sony Music Entertainment and A Kid Named Beckett Productions.

Transcript

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

The other day I was making lemonade with my sons, Beckett and Sully, and Beckett is a little bit of a perfectionist. I'm not sure where he gets that from. It's me. It's definitely me. But he was getting really upset about the seeds falling into the juice and it was turning into a bit of high drama. Now listen, there's an easier way to do this. Who knew? Wonderful seedless lemons are a 100% naturally seedless lemon variety. They're juicy, zesty, bright, and everything you love about lemons minus the. See, that's right. No more seeds floating in your lemonade or Diet Coke or getting caught in your teeth when you take a bite of salad. Frankly, that's just a hazard. Wonderful seedless lemons are available nationwide at retailers such as Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Walmart, Kroger, as well as select Costco outlets. Look for wonderful seedless lemons at your local retailer or visit wonderfulseedlesslemons.com to learn more. Hey, it's Jesse. So I've got a bit of a crazy life. I have two kids under five, two dogs, a husband, a busy career. And I also just added another thing to my to do list. Hosting on Airbnb. Now, to be honest, I haven't yet pulled the trigger because I'm getting a little overwhelmed with everything I would need to do to be on top of everything. As a host. I'd want to put gorgeous photos up to show off the amazing space. I would want to make sure that I'm as responsive as possible to guests and anticipate any questions or needs they might have. You know, you gotta get those good reviews. Plus I gotta make sure that the house is in tip top shape, linens are clean, everything is pristine for when they arrive. See, I'm. I'm already tired just thinking about it. It's like a part time job. That's why I'm so excited about Airbnb's new co host feature. Now I can hire a local co host to handle all the details while I'm away. They can create my listing, manage reservations, communicate with guests, and even style my space. So it's perfect for every guest. It's like having a trusted friend who's really good at this stuff. Just take care of everything. I can focus on my family and my work, knowing that my home and my guests are in great hands. Find a co [e-mail] host hi, it's Jesse today on the show. You know her from rom com. Classics like 13 going on 30 and the wedding Planner to franchise films like Ant man and the Wasp. In fact, she has over 150 credits to her. And her latest is the Best Christmas Pageant ever. It's my friend, Judy Greer.

[Judy Greer]

Everyone's like, oh, you're always the best friend. And then I was like, I've transitioned into compassionate ex wife slash sad mom.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

This is Dinner's on Me and I'm your host, Jesse Tyler Ferguson. God, I love Judy Greer so much. I know it's, it's very easy to look at other people's lives and careers and think, wow, they, they really have it all figured out. But that's how I've always felt about Judy. I was and, and gosh, still am so incredibly impressed by her scope of work as an actor. Every time she pops up in a film or TV show, she shifts the chemistry of her co stars. The colors seem brighter somehow. The scenes pop with a currency that is new and exciting and slightly dangerous. You know, I never know what she's gon what off centered choice she's gonna make. In my opinion, she walks away with every scene she's in. It doesn't matter who she's sharing the screen with. It could be George Clooney or Jennifer Lopez, Ty Burrell or the entire cast of Arrested Development. Her presence just elevates everyone around her so much that when she's not on screen, you notice and you want her back. This just partly summarizes why I am the unelected unofficial president of the Judy Greer fan club and why I was so excited when she agreed to let me take her out for a meal right here. We're in the middle of it. In the middle of Silver Lake. I brought Judy to Botanica in Silver lake. Founded in 2017 by former Food writers Emily Pfeiffer and and Heather Sperling, Botanica is all about good food, good vibes, and a community focus. Serving up fresh, seasonal dishes that spotlight local produce and sustainable practices. The indoor outdoor space is bright and welcoming, designed to make you feel right at home. You'd never know that it was a liquor store in its previous life, other than the sign that says liquor right outside, which they haven't removed, which I love. It has a small market up front and a namesake pantry line so you can bring a bit of that Botanica magic into your own kitchen. Although Botanica has a bit of everything, it's definitely a vegetable forward restaurant with delightful vegan options from my pal Judy. Okay, let's get to the conversation. I used to live literally, like right across the Street. It was my first apartment here in la. I came to LA and I was like, I hated everything about it. I saw a lot of popcorn ceiling. But that, like, depressed me. And then I found this neighborhood, Silver.

[Judy Greer]

Lake, and I was like, oh, my happy is.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, thank God. This is. This.

[Judy Greer]

Thank you. Where did you come from?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I came from New York. I was doing theater in New York. Before that, New Mexico. I know. Buenos dias.

[Judy Greer]

You're from New Mexico.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, I know. It's wild, right? A redhead from New Mexico. Imagine.

[Judy Greer]

Oh, my gosh.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Imagine what my skin goes through now. I. Hi. We both have. Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Yeah. There isn't one cultural concept to the menu. The chefs just kind of cook based on their inspiration of what's in season. Southern California produce. All very local farms. So, like, farm to table. Not exclusively plant based, but at the heart of each dish, that's really what's being put on display. Is that great for the California produce? Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of? I will order vegan food. Vegan food? Yeah. We have lots of great vegan food. Okay, what's your favorite vegan thing? Definitely the heirloom bean hummus and laffa bread. Oh, okay. We use preserved lemon to provide the salt and acid. Okay. So it's like. It's a very classic hummus, but, like, kind of ripe and acidic. Your sad SARS choke chips on there and pickled beans to accompany it. And then there's like a little drizzle of pimento oil, which is just like smoked packed.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

That's so good.

[Judy Greer]

You can't go wrong. Yum. Yeah. Okay. The autumn lettuces is also fully vegan. And the buckwheat soba salad, also vegan without the egg, which is just a small garnish. Right. But you didn't mention that as one of your favorite dishes, so I'm not. I'm not touching that with a 10.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You should stay far away from selfie stick. I've actually had it this delicious.

[Judy Greer]

Oh, really?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I already know what I want.

[Judy Greer]

What are you getting?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'm gonna get the morning mezze.

[Judy Greer]

You are?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Even though it's afternoon, it's clearly in the afternoon. It's so good.

[Judy Greer]

What? I don't. What if I got the same thing?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Just get the same thing without the egg?

[Judy Greer]

Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It's delicious.

[Judy Greer]

Okay. I feel like sharing with this setup would be.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'm happy to do whatever you want.

[Judy Greer]

No, I want my own. I'm an only child and I like. I don't like to share food.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I already Knew that about you. Not that you didn't like to share food, but I was like, oh, now you know that we got an only child coming in. I'm gonna try this pumpkin spice latte with local squash. How do you say this?

[Judy Greer]

It's definitely what I'm getting. Everything he's getting. But, like, vegan.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, Sweet. I'll do vegan milk. Or like oat milk.

[Judy Greer]

We have oat milk. And we have our house made cashew date.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Ooh, I want the cashew date.

[Judy Greer]

Me too.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And also something. Sorry, I keep going. Something sparkly.

[Judy Greer]

Yeah, absolutely. I am a big fan of the cucumber lemon ginger spritzer.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Absolutely.

[Judy Greer]

Do you want these together or do you want the spritzer after your.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You can just line up the liquid.

[Judy Greer]

Line them up? Yeah, line them up. My only.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Here we go.

[Judy Greer]

I'm not having the spritzer. I'm just gonna stick with water.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, that's fine.

[Judy Greer]

Okay.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You should be your own person today.

[Judy Greer]

No, I need a director.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And also, these pastries look amazing. I might take some of these home. Okay.

[Judy Greer]

Where do you live now?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

So now I live in Encino because.

[Judy Greer]

I have church now in the Great one eight.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Great One eight. That's right.

[Judy Greer]

But like. But it's, like, hilly up there.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It is hilly.

[Judy Greer]

Friend on Havenhurst had a party, and my husband and I, we live in Larchmont Village. Decided to walk there.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

So we walked.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You watch Larchmont Village.

[Judy Greer]

We walked.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Not to Havenhurst.

[Judy Greer]

We walked from Larchmont Village to Havenhurst. No, we took the whole day to do it. We left our house at like 9 or 10, and we walked all the way up through the hills and then back down again. Because the Cuenga Pass was really scary. Cause everyone's driving really fast. It took us all day.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And I was gonna say. Do you even have. Was it like nightfall when you arrived?

[Judy Greer]

We got there around the time that the party was starting. But the next morning, we decided we were.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

By the way, can we just say really quickly that that walk from Larchmont to encino is like 10 miles?

[Judy Greer]

Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It's not short.

[Judy Greer]

Yes. It was probably around 10 miles. But the way home.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Wait, let me tell you. It says, okay, Joanna, just go. It's 16 miles. Judy. It's 16 miles. And it says six hours and two minutes walking.

[Judy Greer]

But we stopped a lot, and we drank a lot of beers on the way. And we did partake in some marijuana.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, my.

[Judy Greer]

And so there was like a moment of the walk where we were just.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Like, oh, my God, this Day.

[Judy Greer]

It was so fun. Halfway. Somewhere around. I forget where, he had to buy new shoes. Cause his feet were hurting.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, my God. You had to stop.

[Judy Greer]

We stopped her footwear. But also, the day before we went on our walk, I bought New New Balance. And he was berating me, saying, like, you can't wear brand new shoes on a walk like this. Like, that's such a rookie move. You're going to get blisters. I'm like, I don't think so. I don't think so. I don't think so. New Balance. So I didn't. And he did. He had to replace his shoes halfway. Whatever. Running store. There was a running shop on Ventura.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

We passed every type of store possible on that trip. Literally. Like, there's a store that just sells thimbles. You passed it.

[Judy Greer]

Did you know on that trip.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I know.

[Judy Greer]

I'm like. I was an expert. It was really fun. How pretty.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It's very inspiring. Thank you. This is gorgeous.

[Judy Greer]

OMG.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Cheers.

[Judy Greer]

Cheersville.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, my gosh.

[Judy Greer]

It smells like Sol. It's 80 degrees. Oh, my God.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, that's delicious. Oh, I need to make sure I have the story right.

[Judy Greer]

Okay.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You're like, all right.

[Judy Greer]

That's okay.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Let's dig in.

[Judy Greer]

I just read an etiquette, a thing about etiquette. About when you're supposed to put your napkin on your lap. When I forget. I think it is.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I forget.

[Judy Greer]

I forget. I was like, God, I remember reading the article. I don't. My comprehension is pooh. I think when you're at a restaurant, you do it right away. But when you're at someone's home, you wait until the host or hostess does it. Oh, then you do it.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

That seems like it makes sense.

[Judy Greer]

I think that's.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Isn't it humiliating when you come to it? Like, when you've been sitting at a table and the waiter, like, puts it on a glass for you.

[Judy Greer]

It doesn't bother me.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It bothers me.

[Judy Greer]

I guess it doesn't humiliate me. But one time on my. I think it was my stepdaughter's 16th birthday, we took her to Mastro's. Cause it's like fancy restaurant in Thousand Oaks.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Mm.

[Judy Greer]

I think it was at this meal, she was wearing a black dress, and the waiter switched out her white napkin.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yes. That's classy.

[Judy Greer]

And I said, they do that when you're wearing black so that you don't have white fuzzies on your black pants or black dress or whatever. And she was like, oh. So then on her 16th birthday, when we were at Mastro's. She brought her best friend, and when they did it to her, I, like, heard her be like, they do that when you're wearing black so that you don't like. It was so cute like that. She was like, it's normal at a place like this.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah. Let me teach you, Emily. That's so funny.

[Judy Greer]

She's like 100 now, but that was really cute.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Okay, this is what I wanted to ask you. I think we've talked about it a little bit before.

[Judy Greer]

Okay.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

But you have to remind me, what is your relationship again with Modern Family? Were you offered Claire? Do you remember?

[Judy Greer]

I think I was asked to audition. I don't think I was getting offers at that point in my life.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Got it.

[Judy Greer]

I think I was asked to audition for Claire. This was a time in my career when I was, like, starting to, like. I was like, just, like, maybe one once in a while having a kid.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Mm. Not in real life, but in.

[Judy Greer]

Sorry. In a movie. I was like, once in a while.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Having a kid, you just casually have children spread out to all of them.

[Judy Greer]

I used to do. I used to surrogate. I was a surrogate between jobs. So I would, like, in a movie and it sounds so silly to say it out loud now, but I'll be honest.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

No, I know where you're going with that.

[Judy Greer]

I don't think I'd say it all. Yeah, in a movie, I would have a kid, and then there was this opportunity to audition where I would have three kids. Like, one of them in high school and on a TV show that in success. And you do kind of have to think of these things in success. And obviously, Modern Family was a huge, huge success. Like, how does that, like. Like, in a movie, people kind of, like, see it and then they forget. In a TV show, it's just like.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, you're a mom.

[Judy Greer]

You're a mom.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, you're a mom.

[Judy Greer]

Like, that's 100%.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

No, you're absolutely right.

[Judy Greer]

I didn't even want kids. Like, I wasn't. And, like, that was not even on the table for me. And. And so I was like, ah, I think I'm not going to audition for it. I was, like, really torn about it, but I ended up obviously not. And so who knows if I would have even gotten it anyway. But I was sort of just like, I don't know if I want to be, like, America's mom yet.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I get it.

[Judy Greer]

And so, yeah, I was like, in my 30s, like, early mid. So I was like, I don't know. And it just felt like, so limiting compared to what I was doing already. And in addition to just, like, the perception of who you are as an actor, it's like lifestyle too. Like, I was like, well, I like traveling a lot and I like doing all these movies and I like going to all these places and I like meeting all these people. And like. And the weird thing is, like, if I did have a kid, I'd want to be on a show that shot in LA that was. I was gonna be around for all the time. Like, you know, you were ready. I just, like, I wasn't ready for it, like, in and out of my career, so.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, well, I know. And that's what I was gonna say. Obviously, you know, all these. This is just proof that, like, we all put things in our heads and, like, our realities are not even close to, like, what other people are thinking.

[Judy Greer]

Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

But, yeah, you just worked with Steve Levitan on Reboot.

[Judy Greer]

Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And he adores you.

[Judy Greer]

I worship him.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah. I mean, so many people just absolutely revere you. Rightfully so. But I just remember you saying, like, oh, yeah, I'm feeling weird about, like, it's just interesting. I just find it all very interesting because in my opinion, you know, you are like. Like, you just said you were doing so many things and you are one of those actors that when I first met, I was like, oh, my God, I'm such a fan of hers because I've seen her in so many different things and I've seen her be brilliant in so many different things, and she's just like the epitome of someone who, like, fucking works all the time and does really cool stuff and, like, can turn anything into gold. And I was like, I was just so inspired by that. So to see you kind of like, I don't know, admit to, like, stepping away from something. I was really. I admired that so much.

[Judy Greer]

I'm glad. I can't ever help myself but just say everything on my mind. It's like, I wish I was just like, I'm so happy to be here. But instead I'm like, oh, I don't know, maybe they're mad at me. Maybe I should have done it. I don't know.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, I go through that all the time. I was at this event last night for the powerful women in Hollywood.

[Judy Greer]

Oh, yeah, I saw you there. Wait, no, I didn't.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Where were you?

[Judy Greer]

I met the co dependent women of Hollywood. It's a very long luncheon. It never ends. It's always going in a very small ballroom at the Ramada, near the airport, because we don't want people to have to drive very far when they fly in.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, it's incredible.

[Judy Greer]

I want to go to that luncheon, by the way.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, for sure. The codependent one. I absolutely will be your date.

[Judy Greer]

No, tell me about the powerful women in Hollywood. Tell me what they were saying.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

They were all very intimidating. No, but I was just amongst people who, like Carol Burnett, for example, was being honored. And my friend Liz Banks presented an award to Amy Adams. And, like, I was just surrounded by all these people who have had these incredible careers. But, like, also, like, Carol Burnett for a while, like, she disappeared. Like, she wasn't really doing it. She's had a quite a renaissance. But I just, you know, Liz Banks would always tell me, you know, like, slow and steady wins the race. Like, a lot of people have no idea.

[Judy Greer]

Agreed.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah. And I just. I'm so inspired by those careers. And I felt like I was just amongst a lot of, like, incredible women who had really been, you know, had really been a testament to. To what that means. And it was just very inspiring.

[Judy Greer]

And you don't know when you get here, and not just for women, but in general. Like, you don't know that when you start. You basically have to start acting when you're really young. Like, very rarely do people start and become, like, successful actors, like, starting in their 40s. Like, that doesn't happen every once in a while. It's always, like, so rare, and it's usually a dude. So you start doing this job that's really super hard and makes you feel like poo a lot of the time when you're really, really young. And so all you want is, like, you just think, like, if I just get that. If I'm, like, if I, like, rocket ship to the top of the list, like, if I become a star, then, like, everything will, like, everything will make sense and I'll be able to work forever. But, like, what's true is actually, no, it's like, slow and steady wins the race is actually, like, when people have, like, real longevity. Like, I mean, we all want those, like, movie star moments, of course, or TV star moments, but, like, really playing roles. Playing roles. Look at the yolks on those eggs. God dang. Thank you so much playing. You know, like, you can have, like, a really long career, but, like, I don't think anyone comes here and starts out and is like, I want a lot of small roles in independent film. And I'm, like, really hoping that maybe, like, I can just, like, stretch out a recurring role and turn that into like a different recurring role and just like work on my foreign values slowly but surely so that I can start like, nobody.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Says that. Really.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah. Now for a quick break, but don't go away. When we come back, Judy tells me about the actor she was jealous of early in her career and the audition where everything went wrong. Everything. Okay, be right back. So recently I've gotten back into somewhat of a consistent workout routine. But one thing I did realize, and I'm embarrassed to say this, is that some of my athleisure wear was looking a little worse for wear. I ended up doing a little refresh with some items from Quince. I got a few of the flow knit breeze performance tees and polo shirts. They're super comfy and lightweight. They look really great. And fun fact, the fabric is made from recycled water bottles. All right, but we got to talk about the price. These shirts feel just as nice as the name brand shirts I have that were quadruple the price. Okay, how is this possible? Let me tell you. Quint's partners directly with factories, cutting out the cost of the middleman and passing the savings directly on to you. And I appreciate that they only work with factories that have safe, ethical and responsible manufacturing practices. Upgrade your wardrobe with pieces made to last with quints. Go to quints.com JTF for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns. That's Q-U-I-N-C-E.com JTF to get free shipping and 365 day returns. That's a year, people. Quince.com JTF this episode is brought to.

[Judy Greer]

You by Google Gemini. With the Gemini app, you can talk live and have a real time conversation with an AI assistant. It's great for all kinds of things. Like if you want to practice for an upcoming interview, ask for advice on things to do in a new city or brainstorm creative ideas. And by the way, this script was actually read by Gemini. Download the Gemini app for iOS and Android today. Must be 18 to use Gemini live.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And we're back with more dinners on me. What is, like, the thing? Like, is there a theme that people sort of ask you about? Is it about, like, Jennifer Garner?

[Judy Greer]

That's all anyone wants to talk about.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, really?

[Judy Greer]

No. Like a theme? Yeah, a little bit like this. Like, a little bit like, God, you've done so many different things and you've done like you've, like. I say it like I'm making fun of those. I don't mean it that way. But like, yes, in the beginning, I think everyone thought they were discovering me because, like someone who cast me in a TV show didn't know that I'd been in an independent movie or like, I mean, now with social media, we all know everything all the time about everybody. But in the beginning it was less so. But yeah, people do like to talk about that. Like, like it was some kind of like by design career, you know what I mean? Like, I had tried all these years to do exactly this. Like, that's not the case. I just like, I love working and I have to eat food.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

By the way, dinner's on me. Just so you know, it's the name of the podcast, so you don't even.

[Judy Greer]

Have to call my agent.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You don't even have to worry about.

[Judy Greer]

Paying now I don't have to do that job. I just.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

So relieved I got it out of this app. Sometimes I get to the end of the conversation and I want to sneak it in and it's not good. But that was a good one. That was a good one.

[Judy Greer]

Do you have a. Do you have a friend that you have to tell them like up front, like, I'm paying tonight. Yeah, I know. Me too.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I have a friend who will not. He always pays. Why? With cash.

[Judy Greer]

That's cool though.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

With cash. That's like in different places in his house. Like he has like rolled up cash in like strange places.

[Judy Greer]

Who's this friend?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, exactly.

[Judy Greer]

Don't worry about it.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Is he single?

[Judy Greer]

That's random.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Totally random. Oh, crap. I lost my train of thought. This is really good, isn't it? Delicious.

[Judy Greer]

This is so good.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I know what I was going to say. When you were first working and you know, you do talk about like having lots of smaller roles and like just sort of taking lots of opportunity. Like, what's the leading lady? What did she look like to you in like 2000 2010? Like, I know that was like the kind of the era of like what Julia Roberts and I mean, did you feel that the industry was even open to, like, different types? I don't know.

[Judy Greer]

What was it like? The movie star that I grew up with was Julia Roberts. Like she was sort of my north star of like what a movie star was. Yeah, I was like a little bit. You know, I didn't look like everyone else. My voice didn't sound like everyone else for whatever it means. Like my sort of style of acting was different. So I think like the movie stars, like the girls were all like, really traditionally pretty. Like sounded More normal and didn't have, like, weird accent and didn't overshare at an audition and, like, had, like, nicer outfits on and, like, were more put together and stuff. I remember there was this movie that Maggie Gyllenhaal starred in called Secretary with James Bader. It's so fucking good. Is it okay if I swear? Yeah, it's so fucking good. And we were up for the same things a lot. Like, when she got that movie, my first instinct was jealousy because I'm a human being, and I was telling my agent, like, oh, I feel very jealous of her. And now she. She is a star. And, like, I don't think that I would have played. Like, I don't think I would have gotten cast in that role. It's not like I was like, I wanted that role. It wasn't that jealousy. It was just like, oh, she's gonna. You know, this is gonna put her at that level. And then my agent said something to me that I thought of, and I still. All the time think about it. He's like, what you're missing is that she's opening a door for people like you to star in things and to be cast in roles like that. Like. Like, Maggie's energy and my energy is very different. But we're like. We were both sort of at the time, like, quirky and, like, not your traditionally beautiful person and, like, have something, like, a little off and, like, you know, our versions of all that are very different. But, like, I remember thinking, like, oh, right. He's like, it's actually a good thing. It means that, like. Like, the. The industry wants. That they want something different. They don't want a cookie cutter pretty girl or, like, the blonde, tan, pretty. Like, they want. Like, there's a desire for this. And if there's a desire for this, then they're gonna create more roles for this, and she's gonna be busy playing them, and then you're gonna get. I was like, her sloppy seconds.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'll take it.

[Judy Greer]

But I thought, like, it was such an interesting. It was just like, a more mature way of looking at the situation and, like.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

But also, I mean, I can understand where you would come from, though, when you feel like there are opportunities, like, a great role in that movie, which was so fantastic, and it feels like, okay, there's now a pool of us that are hungry for these types of roles, like, and they can only go to one person. I can understand where you would initially feel, you know. Yeah, it's that sort of churning in your stomach, like, Oh, I want that. I want that. But you're right. I mean, and I think. But don't you think that you're also holding the door open for, you know, people as well, with all these, you know, opportunities that you've been given as well? I think, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

I mean, creating, like, there was all of a sudden, like, there was all of a sudden a desire for, like, something that, like. Like a character or that or an actor that's, like, a little bit more left of center, like, a little bit more off, you know, And. And so I thought, like, oh, great, then there is a need and a want and a desire for, like, what I have to offer.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I mean, I feel like you're one of those actors who, in a script I'll be reading and think, like, they'll be describing someone. Like, think Judy Greer.

[Judy Greer]

Aw.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You know what I mean? Yeah. Yeah. Something that we have in common. I actually love to audition.

[Judy Greer]

Me too.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I know. I've heard this about you.

[Judy Greer]

It's really stressful auditioning, not auditioning.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, I agree.

[Judy Greer]

I mean, auditioning is stressful. I'm not, like, I get really stressed.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Out about it, but if you have someone who says, like, if I'm. It doesn't happen that often for me. But there's happened a few times where I've gotten a direct offer, and I'm like, oh, God. Like, the pressure is almost too, too high because they have so much trust in the fact that I can do this. Like, what if I can't? Like, I'd rather, like, let's. Let's all collectively together, see if this is what we all want. Yeah, yeah. On the same page.

[Judy Greer]

But it's so funny because agents and managers just love an offer. They're like, we're getting you the offer. And I'm like, wait a minute. Or they'll be like, we're cutting together this thing to show them this version of you so that we can get the offer. And I'm like, oh, don't do that.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Amy Sedaris tells this really funny story of auditioning for this play. It's called the Most Fabulous Story Ever Told. She ends up getting it, but her audition was apparently awful. Terrible audition, like, bombed in the room. And they were all so excited to meet her, and she just did not perform well, made big choices. They all, like, none of them worked. So as she was leaving the audition, actually, the director, Chris Farashley also told me the story, so I know it checks out. But she's, you know, she's opening the door to leave and there's a room full of other actresses who are about to go in for the same role. And she basically was like, so, great. So I'll see you on Monday. Basically sounding like she's starting rehearsal and just pretending to have this conversation with the people who she bombed in front of, like, oh, so great meeting you, too. I'll see you on Monday. And they just thought that that moment was so funny. They were like, no, let's cast her. Yeah, isn't that great?

[Judy Greer]

I was auditioning. I mean, I was auditioning for a pilot. It was at Universal. I was running to the bungalow. I tripped and fell. I caught my boot on, like, a tire stopper, and it cut my boot open. I hurt my knee, like, fell on my hands. I'm like, listen, for this pilot. And I go in and I'm like, like, oh, hey, you're here. Okay, great. Come on in. I'm like. I go in and I, like, do my audition. They're like, okay, thank you so much. And I'm like, yeah. I always used to ask if I can do it again. Like, oh, no, it was great. It was great. It was great. And I'm like, okay. We all know it wasn't, but okay. And I, like, turn. I text, adjourn up. Turn around and have, like, you know, I just fell down in the parking lot. I cut my. Look, my boot. My boot is ripped open. It's leather. And my hands are scraped up. Like, my knee hurts. Like, I just, like, need a minute, man. I'm really sorry. Like, I know I can do better. They're like, no, it was fine. And I'm like. And I, like, shut the door. And I'm, like, stomping back to my car, and I hear someone go, judy. Judy. And they fully, like, they're like, please come back. Please come back. Can you just put that, like, back in your. Like, like, your rant at the. And I'm like, yeah, like Amy Sedaris. And I have.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

But I love it, like, in that moment that, like, you left the room and walk into your car. Like, what was that conversation in the room that. They're like. They were like, now that's who you're picturing.

[Judy Greer]

That's.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

That's her. That's, like, how it happens in, like, a movie.

[Judy Greer]

That's what we wanted to get.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Then she was like, where have you been, dad? That's a writing problem.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Did you get it?

[Judy Greer]

I got the offer, but then I did something else.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, that's right.

[Judy Greer]

Yes. Remember pilot Season it was so crazy that existed. So. Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

What is this? Like, you have this crazy through line, though, of, like, your characters, and this is what I'm so amazed by.

[Judy Greer]

Always take their shirts off.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Not every character. Well, that's true as well, but not every character. But so many of your characters are completely unhinged. And what I'm so fascinated by is, like, how you can find. Like, for me, I'd be like, I'm either unhinged or nothinged. Wait, that's the same thing. I'm either hinged or not.

[Judy Greer]

You're hinged.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'm either hinged or unhinged.

[Judy Greer]

Right? Two different things.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, two different things. But, like, you have found, like, nuance in the unhinged that. I just find it completely annoying.

[Judy Greer]

That's so nice to say. I'm going to take a compliment and say thank you.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You're welcome.

[Judy Greer]

I would also like to say that this is a trait that women are really good at because we have to compartmentalize our lives so quickly. And I'm not saying men don't, but we're not allowed to feel the things that we feel all the time. And so we have to, like. I feel like. I think we have to sort of, like, get our shit together really quickly. And. Well, a. I'm probably neurotic and I have a lot of anxiety, for sure, but, like, I don't know when you're. I can't speak to being a man, but I feel like all my girlfriends are like this. Like, yeah, we can be, like, fully losing our shit and then be like, oh, there's a spot at Trader Joe's and I need some apples. Psycho. Like, I'll be sobbing in one room, and then, like, my husband will be like, do you still want to get sushi tonight? And I'll be like, yeah, that'd be great. Same order. Like, we are just like, you know, but that's also funny. And that's what I respond to when I watch things that make me happy and make me laugh and that I can relate to. So then I think, well, that's what I want to give to audiences. It's like that thing.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah. Now for a quick break, but don't go away. When we come back, Judy tells me the worst quote unquote complimen she's ever gotten from strangers. And we hear about her latest film, the Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Okay, be right back.

[Judy Greer]

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[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

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[Judy Greer]

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[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

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[Judy Greer]

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[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

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[Judy Greer]

See for [e-mail].

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And we're back with more dinners on me. I know you talk about this happening to you a lot where people like, you know, don't know how they know.

[Judy Greer]

I wrote a book called I don't know what you know me from because I've had people A flight attendant once was like, nobody knows who you are, but I do. And I'm like, not. Not a compliment. Not what I'm going for otherwise. Like, you are so pretty impersonate.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I get that. I get that.

[Judy Greer]

Why do you let them make you look so ugly in movies? Like, why do you. Why do they do that? Or one flight attendant once was like, do you know what I love about you? I love that you play the same character every single time. And I was like, oh no, thank you for that.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

No, I would tailspin for weeks if.

[Judy Greer]

Someone told me that that sucked. No, I've been, I was saying recently, like, everyone's like, oh, you're always the best friend. And then I was like, I've transitioned into compassionate ex wife slash sad Mom.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

It's a natural transition. Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

That's what happens.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

My husband's like, you should make someone say one thing they've seen you in before you grant them a picture.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'm like, no.

[Judy Greer]

It's like, yes.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Are you. Do you remember how to work your camera?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Out of nowhere.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

People are like, yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

What is it? Definitely panic, though. Although I have met people that I'm, like, obsessed with, and, like, I have wanted a picture. And, like, all of a sudden, like, I'm like, oh, my God, you do. Look at my phone. I don't know how to fork my phone.

[Judy Greer]

I had that at a fundraiser I went to with my husband. And Cindy Crawford was there.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yes.

[Judy Greer]

And I, like, almost started crying. Like, I was just beyond starstruck. And we walked past her, and I was like. And my husband Dean, like, turned around, and he walked back over to her, and he said, I'm so sorry to bother you. My wife will never ask you, but could. Could I take a picture of the two of you together? And she was so nice. She was like, of course. And then she turned and she was like, oh, my gosh. Yeah. And I was like. Like, I was like, wait, Judy, where.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Did you meet Dean?

[Judy Greer]

Blind date.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Really?

[Judy Greer]

I met him on my doorstep when he picked me up for our date.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

He's a producer.

[Judy Greer]

He's a producer. He produces Real Time with Bill Maher. So a writer on his show is a friend of mine and sent me an email saying, like, hey, like, are you seeing anyone right now? My boss at work is smart and funny, and the chicks dig him. And I was like, oh, I'm super single. Anyway, so he calls and leaves a message, and it's, like, the cutest message ever. I saved it. It's like, hi, my name is Dean Johnson, and I got your number from Matt, and, well, I'm calling to ask you on a date. Would you like to go on a date with me? Okay, here's my phone number. Blah, blah, blah. And I'm like, oh, my God.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Like, cute. It is cute.

[Judy Greer]

So I call him back, and he doesn't pick up, and I leave a message for him. Then he calls, calls me, and I missed the phone call, and he leaves a message for me, and so many, like, voicemails that we actually, through voicemail, made our date. So, yeah, open my front door, and there's, like, this tall, handsome guy.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

What was your first impression of him?

[Judy Greer]

Well, that he was tall. Cause for a lady, I am taller sometimes, but my full length Mirror is right by the front door. So I have my high heeled booties on and. And I was looking in the full length mirror and I was like, this is cute. And then he knocks on the door and I'm like, you know what? Fuck it. Like, if this works out, I'm gonna wear heels around him. Like, let's see what he's made of, you know? And then I open the door and he's like, six two. And I'm like.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I did get to watch. I haven't gotten to see it yet, but I did get to watch the trailer for your Christmas movie.

[Judy Greer]

Oh, insane.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

The greatest Christmas.

[Judy Greer]

Best Christmas pageant ever. Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Isn't this a remake? Was there a story?

[Judy Greer]

There was a TV movie, right? A telefilm.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Telefilm.

[Judy Greer]

There was a telefilm version of it in the 80s. Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I think I remember hearing about it. But this is an updated.

[Judy Greer]

I never heard about it. I never heard about the book. I never heard about anything until I was told about the project and the role. And I read the script and met the director. And then when I got it, I decided to. To read the book. I mean, obviously read the book. But no, it was like. But what's crazy is I feel like I have been living under a rock because this is like, people's favorite thing in the world that I didn't know about.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Right? Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

I mean, like, people are like, salt. You didn't know about salt? Like, no, I didn't know about salt. I'm sorry. Like, that's how I feel sometimes when people are like, you didn't know the book or anything. But also, I can't even really honestly say. Maybe someone did read it to me. Maybe we owned it. I have no memory of it.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I mean, it looks great. It looks. Stylistically, it looks like it's beautifully shot.

[Judy Greer]

It is.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Which is always exciting, you know, to like, sort of have an elevated family classic.

[Judy Greer]

And I'm a sucker for cool shots. Like, me too.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Me too. I appreciate them.

[Judy Greer]

And I always tell a director, like, if you want to get me to do something I don't want to do, just tell me that it's like a really cool shot, and I'll be like, okay, I'll do it. Like, we're doing a really cool shot. It's going to take a while to set up, and you are gonna need to hit your mark. But, like, it's gonna be fucking awesome. And I'm like, okay, let's do it.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I'll be here all day.

[Judy Greer]

Whatever it takes. Otherwise, I'm like, but I wanna go to Pilates. But, yeah, I think it's. I think kids are gonna love it. And I'm really excited to see it all done. Cause, like, the music's gonna be cute. Like, all the color, timing, and just, like, all the stuff.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I mean, I grew up. It takes place in a church, right?

[Judy Greer]

Yes.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah.

[Judy Greer]

Ish. Yeah.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I mean, this mom steps up to be the director of the Christmas pageant. And it's for the church.

[Judy Greer]

Yes, the Nativity scene. The Nativity pageant.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

So, I mean, I have such a deep connection to, like, just that era. I have such nostalgia around it because I went to Catholic grade school growing up, and we always did the Nativity at midnight Mass the night before. And I started doing productions of the Nativity in my home. And I would cast my family members. And I remember my sister was always Mary, the Virgin Mary. My cousin, who was the strongest and the oldest of all of us, was usually a donkey that she would ride it on. My brother was like, you know, Joseph. And then a doll, like a Cabbage Patch doll, would stand in for baby Jesus.

[Judy Greer]

Oh, my God.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I mean, I don't even know if I was actually technically in it. I think I was more just like the director. I was director. And I do know that, like, it always. There was always a few songs that we always had in, of course, Away in A major. But then it would end with, like, Carol of the Bells.

[Judy Greer]

And I would crawl. Dramatic.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, dramatic. I would crawl behind the Christmas tree, and at the end of it, I would plug in the tree. So that'd be the grand finale. And then one year, my siblings, they got. I was really bossy as well. As a director. Yeah. Yeah, I was. And my siblings and I would also start rehearsal, like, really early, like in October. Too soon, you know, Too soon.

[Judy Greer]

Especially for a planner.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Workshopping some ideas.

[Judy Greer]

Every year with the same cast.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I would put spins on it, you know? Yeah, yeah. I'd try new things. I wanted workshops, new ideas.

[Judy Greer]

Sure, sure.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And so around. So they got very annoyed with me because I was very bossy. So around Halloween, they quit. And so I was really frustrated. And then after Thanksgiving, we had, like. We had two weeks off from school, and my siblings got really bored. And they're like, can we do. Can we do the Christmas pageant, Judy? I made them sign contracts that said, basically, I will not quit the show.

[Judy Greer]

Do you have them?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I wonder if my mom kept them.

[Judy Greer]

I would love, like, a documentary where you interview. Not you, but someone that's not you. Interviews Your entire family.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Judy Greer]

About their version. Like, remember how Motley Crue did the, like the audio biography and they each told stories from their point of view? Because I would be so curious to hear this whole breakdown from like your siblings and cousins. Like the way you describe your strong cousin as the donkey. Like her version of that would be compelling. I love that.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Oh, Judy, it's so good to see you.

[Judy Greer]

I know, I know. I can't thank think of a time. Do you ever. Okay, before this.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Uh huh.

[Judy Greer]

How would you describe our relationship?

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

Well, I know how I describe my relationship with you. It would be. I mean, I don't want to embarrass you, but like, it would be like, fan.

[Judy Greer]

Well, thank you. I'm sorry, but like, because then I'd be embarrassed if someone asked you about me and you were like, oh, yeah, we met once at a party and I'd be like, oh, she thinks you guys are friends.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

I want you to know I have someone. I would call you a friend.

[Judy Greer]

Okay, thank you. I would call it.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

And you are allowed to call me a friend.

[Judy Greer]

Okay, deal.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

You know what friends do for other friends?

[Judy Greer]

Pay for dinner.

[Jesse Tyler Ferguson]

That's right. And so tonight, Dinner's on Me. Oh yeah, that was a good one. This episode of Dinner's on Me was recorded at Botanica in Silver Lake, California. Next week on Dinners on Me. You know him from Suits Orphan Black and Accused, it's actor Patrick J. Adams. We catch up since working together on Broadway in Take Me out, including his new podcast, sidebar, a Suits Rewatch podcast. He tells me what it's like to watch back the hit show for the first time, actually. And we hear how he's tackled personal challenges thrown his way. And if you don't want to wait until next week to listen, you can download that episode right now by subscribing to Dinners on Me. Plus, as a subscriber, not only do you get access to new episodes one week early, you'll also be able to listen completely ad free. Just click Try free at the top of the Dinners on Me show page on Apple Podcasts to start your free trial today. Dinners on Me is a production of Sony Music Entertainment and a kid named Beckett Productions. It's hosted by me, Jesse Tyler Ferguson. It's executive produced by me and Jonathan Hirsch. Our showrunner is Joanna Clay. Our associate producer is Angela Vang. Sam Baer engineered this episode. Hans Dale. She composed our theme music. Our head of production is Sammy Allison. Special thanks to Tameka Balance Kolasny and Justin Makita. I'm Jesse Tyler Ferguson. Join me next week.