Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Episode: Brett Gelman Gets Mansplained to by Larry David and has Really Nice Shirts
Release Date: July 24, 2025

Introduction of Brett Gelman

The episode welcomes comedian and actor Brett Gelman as the guest, delving into his experiences in the entertainment industry, his collaborations with hosts Dana Carvey and David Spade, and his roles in prominent television series.

Collaborative Experiences: Brett and David's Commercial Work ([02:35] - [10:52])

Brett Gelman shares his experience working with David Spade on a T-Mobile commercial during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Brett Gelman ([02:36]): "I'm just a social mess. I don't. Most things I say are. It's not even offensive. It's just like, I'd rather not."
• David Spade ([06:11]): "We did a T Mobile commercial right before the pandemic."
• Brett Gelman ([08:17]): "For a commercial, it was really good. We were funny together."

They discuss how the commercial was initially planned to air during the Final Four for March Madness but was eventually cut down to a 15-second Instagram spot due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic.

Navigating Show Business Relationships ([10:52] - [21:56])

The conversation shifts to the dynamics of friendships and professional relationships within the industry.

• Dana Carvey ([09:43]): "Clothes are people. Like, you can have an unneeded obligation with an article of clothing that is being micro corrosive to your psyche."

Brett and David explore the challenges of maintaining friendships amidst varying levels of fame and success, highlighting the importance of staying grounded.

Communication Challenges: Texting vs. Voice Notes ([21:56] - [27:14])

The trio delves into the anxieties surrounding digital communication, particularly texting.

• David Spade ([24:00]): "We're on it."
• Brett Gelman ([24:35]): "Text regret every single day. I hate it. I hate texting so much."

They emphasize the preference for more personal forms of communication, such as voice notes, to mitigate misunderstandings and anxiety.

Impact of 'Stranger Things' on Brett Gelman's Career ([28:12] - [35:29])

Brett discusses his role in the hit series Stranger Things and its substantial impact on his career trajectory.

• Brett Gelman ([34:08]): "It's like the original Star Wars was. You know, and what those actors were seen as and that, like, you're seen as like a part of people's family in a way."
• Dana Carvey ([35:10]): "You've got these one, two, huge, critical, brilliant. And then Stranger things."

He expresses gratitude for being part of a successful show that also maintains artistic integrity, contrasting it with his previous projects that had varying degrees of success.

Handling Success and Maintaining Humility ([35:29] - [40:01])

The discussion turns to the pressures of sustained success and the importance of humility in the face of fame.

• Dana Carvey ([39:05]): "You have this massive resume of creating your own stuff. So thank you. You have leverage now though."
• Brett Gelman ([40:01]): "When you’re in the vacuum in your house... It’s easy to like not notice the yeses."

Brett acknowledges the mental toll of constant visibility and the necessity of self-awareness to stay grounded.

Working with Comedy Legends: Chris Elliott and Andy Kaufman ([40:21] - [49:07])

Brett recounts his time working with Chris Elliott on the show Eagle Heart, drawing parallels to the comedic genius of Andy Kaufman.

• Brett Gelman ([47:57]): "He does something where it's like there's four funny things happening at the same time almost."
• Dana Carvey ([48:38]): "And self-important, ridiculous."

He highlights Elliott's ability to blend exceptional acting with a critical take on show business, fostering a creative and humorous environment on set.

Anecdotes and Personal Stories ([49:07] - [53:50])

The hosts and Brett share humorous and heartfelt anecdotes, illustrating the camaraderie and mutual respect among comedians.

• Dana Carvey ([52:16]): "And then he threw a shoe at me. I said, chris."
• Brett Gelman ([50:56]): "All right, Dana, what do you want to. What do you got for this guy?"

These stories underscore the playful and supportive relationships that fuel their creative endeavors.

Closing Remarks and Future Collaborations ([53:50] - [54:24])

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts express their appreciation for Brett's participation and hint at future collaborations.

• Brett Gelman ([53:05]): "But thank you, boss. Appreciate you talking to us."
• Dana Carvey ([54:00]): "Is it okay for me to say I would love to see it. Is that too much?"

They discuss the possibility of revisiting past projects and continuing their strong professional relationships.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Brett Gelman ([02:36]): "I'm just a social mess. I don't. Most things I say are. It's not even offensive. It's just like, I'd rather not."
• Dana Carvey ([09:43]): "Clothes are people. Like, you can have an unneeded obligation with an article of clothing that is being micro corrosive to your psyche."
• Brett Gelman ([24:35]): "Text regret every single day. I hate it. I hate texting so much."
• Brett Gelman ([34:08]): "It's like the original Star Wars was. You know, and what those actors were seen as and that, like, you're seen as like a part of people's family in a way."
• Dana Carvey ([35:10]): "You've got these one, two, huge, critical, brilliant. And then Stranger things."
• Brett Gelman ([40:01]): "When you’re in the vacuum in your house... It’s easy to like not notice the yeses."
• Brett Gelman ([47:57]): "He does something where it's like there's four funny things happening at the same time almost."
• Dana Carvey ([48:38]): "And self-important, ridiculous."
• Dana Carvey ([52:16]): "And then he threw a shoe at me. I said, chris."

Conclusion

The episode offers an insightful and entertaining glimpse into Brett Gelman's journey in show business, his collaborations with Dana Carvey and David Spade, and his perspectives on fame, communication, and creative relationships. Through candid conversations and humorous anecdotes, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics that drive comedic success and personal growth within the entertainment industry.