Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade Episode: Bobby Lee Bombs But is Rich Enough for Spade Release Date: July 10, 2025

In this engaging episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, longtime comedic duo Dana Carvey and David Spade welcome special guest Bobby Lee. The conversation navigates through Bobby's early career struggles, memorable audition experiences, interactions with industry heavyweights like Adam Sandler, and his evolution into successful podcasting. The episode is rich with humor, candid insights, and heartfelt reflections, providing listeners with an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of a comedian's journey in Hollywood.

1. Welcoming Bobby Lee

[02:30] Dana Carvey opens the episode by introducing Bobby Lee, highlighting his popularity within the comedy community. Dana remarks, "I love Bobby Lee and he's very well liked over there," setting the stage for a relaxed and friendly conversation.

2. Bobby Lee's Audition Experiences

[03:04] Bobby delves into his early career, recounting his attempts to break into the entertainment industry. He shares his audition process for Mad TV, emphasizing the challenges he faced as an Asian comedian in the late '90s. Bobby humorously narrates, "I went on a Saturday, and I was in my mind, the night... because they wanted three impressions and I'm not an impressionist."

[14:34] He recounts an audition where he performed impressions of Kim Jong Il, Connie Chung, and Chow Yun Fat. Bobby explains, "I stand up backwards on my hands as Chanyeon Fat. Because I thought that would be funny," showcasing his inventive approach to overcoming audition hurdles.

3. Interaction with Adam Sandler on Set

[43:03] The conversation shifts to Bobby's experiences on the set of The Wrong Missy. He describes an amusing encounter with Adam Sandler, stating, "I was holding hands with her, and Sandler walks up and he gave me a layup."

[44:07] Bobby humorously illustrates a scene where he struggles with his lines, leading to a light-hearted moment: "What do you do? It's a little hard. And he goes, 'I'm sorry,' and I go, 'What are you doing?'" This interaction highlights the camaraderie and spontaneous humor among comedians on set.

4. Reflections on Stand-Up Career and Podcasting

[33:03] Bobby discusses the transition from struggling stand-up comedian to successful podcaster. He reflects, "Up until maybe seven years ago is when I felt like... I think I'm fine," indicating a turning point fueled by his podcasting endeavors.

[64:14] He introduces his podcast, Bad Friends, alongside co-host Andrew Santino, emphasizing the blend of humor and genuine conversation. "We do over 500 episodes," Bobby notes, underscoring the podcast's longevity and popularity.

5. The Dynamics Among Comedians at SNL

[60:16] Dana and David reminisce about their time on Saturday Night Live (SNL), discussing the competitive yet supportive environment among cast members. David shares, "We meshed really well," highlighting the collaborative spirit that fueled their success.

[61:22] They pay tribute to Phil Hartman, recalling his exceptional talent and the relaxed atmosphere he brought to the SNL cast. "He was the only one pretty much really relaxed at the whole place," Dana recalls fondly.

6. Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Success

[35:30] Bobby narrates a pivotal moment when he was offered a $10,000 check from a club owner facing business closure. Demonstrating his integrity, Bobby responded, "How much would I need to give you back for your business? Five." This act of honesty not only stabilized his finances but also earned him lasting friendships in the industry.

[53:03] The trio discusses the concept of feeling "rich" beyond mere financial success. Bobby shares a personal revelation, "I've always felt like I was drowning," juxtaposed with his later contentment through podcasting, illustrating the nuanced understanding of wealth and fulfillment.

7. Closing Reflections and Future Endeavors

[75:00] As the episode wraps up, Dana, David, and Bobby discuss upcoming projects and the anticipation of future guests on their podcasts. Bobby mentions his upcoming Hulu special titled Finally, scheduled for January, expressing excitement about advancing his comedic career.

[76:28] Dana and David commend Bobby's unique comedic style, with Dana stating, "You're one of the fun ones because I think you're hilarious," reinforcing the positive and supportive dynamic among the hosts and their guest.

Notable Quotes

• Bobby Lee at [14:34]: "I stood up backwards on my hands as Chanyeon Fat. Because I thought that would be funny."

• Bobby Lee at [35:30]: "How much would I need to give you back for your business? Five."

• David Spade at [60:22]: "Phil Hartman was the only one pretty much really relaxed at the whole place."

• Bobby Lee at [33:03]: "Up until maybe seven years ago is when I felt like... I think I'm fine."

• Dana Carvey at [42:14]: "You're very popular. I know. You can't handle these compliments."

Conclusion

This episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade offers a heartfelt and humorous exploration of Bobby Lee's journey in the comedy landscape. From the struggles of early auditions to the successes of podcasting, Bobby's stories resonate with aspiring comedians and fans alike. The episode underscores the importance of resilience, integrity, and camaraderie in navigating the unpredictable world of showbiz. With its blend of laughter and genuine conversation, this episode stands out as a testament to the enduring bonds and shared experiences that define the comedy community.