Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade – Episode Featuring Joel McHale
Release Date: January 15, 2025
Introduction to Joel McHale
In this engaging episode of "Fly on the Wall," hosts Dana Carvey and David Spade warmly welcome comedian and actor Joel McHale. The conversation kicks off with the trio reminiscing about their longstanding friendships and shared experiences in the entertainment industry.
Notable Quote:
- David Spade [01:53]: "Joel's a great stand-up. We see him at the Comedy Store."
Joel's Career Highlights
Joel McHale delves into his diverse career, highlighting his roles in "Community," "Talk Soup," and his recent project "Animal Control." He shares insights into his work ethic, particularly discussing the challenges of reading from teleprompters due to his dyslexia.
Notable Quotes:
- Dana Carvey [02:18]: "We talk about Community. This show, Community forever."
- Joel McHale [03:07]: "Animal Control, and it's... I just read a really nice thing about it in the paper."
Behind the Scenes of "Community"
The hosts explore Joel's time on "Community," touching upon the dynamics with co-star Chevy Chase. They discuss the rigorous filming schedules, Joel's athletic endeavors, and the unique atmosphere on set.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [24:36]: "Chevy Chase had this impulse to say the thing you're not supposed to say... he... was a spectacular presence."
- David Spade [25:34]: "If anybody is actively just being difficult... Forget Chevy."
Personal Anecdotes and Friendships
The trio shares funny and heartfelt stories from their personal lives. Joel talks about his high school football experience and his close relationship with legendary Coach Don James. Dana and David contribute with their own tales of adolescence and the importance of strong friendships.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [56:20]: "I walked on to the University of Washington football team. That was the most terrifying I'd ever been a part of, but at the same time, most fun."
- Dana Carvey [61:06]: "I was probably as good as Bronnie. Take the other side."
Hobbies and Interests: Truck Restoration
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Joel's passion for truck restoration. Both Dana and Joel express their love for classic trucks, with Joel showcasing his collection of Land Cruisers and International Scouts.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [63:00]: "I have an International Scout and a 1970 Land Cruiser."
- Dana Carvey [62:50]: "I like Land Cruisers near the Scouts."
Reflections on Show Business
The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of show business. Joel reflects on the transition from traditional television to streaming platforms, comparing his experiences with past and present media dynamics.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [20:36]: "They literally blamed us for the downfall of Yahoo. Screen."
- David Spade [32:30]: "Anyone can do mass singers. Huge hit. Who would have thought?"
Challenges of Live Performances
Joel opens up about the pressures of live performances, especially his time on "Talk Soup." He discusses managing his dyslexia on air and the intense environment of live television.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [44:23]: "I've never answered any questions about him [Chevy Chase]. So this is..."
- David Spade [47:59]: "How many years did you do the soup? Because that's another part of your resume."
Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes
As the episode wraps up, Joel expresses his admiration for Dana and David, thanking them for the opportunity to share his stories. The hosts reciprocate the sentiments, emphasizing the camaraderie and mutual respect among them.
Notable Quotes:
- Joel McHale [64:37]: "You got no idea how excited I was to do this. And my wife was like, well, that's a good one."
- Dana Carvey [64:43]: "Say hello and thanks, buddy. I'll see you around."
Conclusion
This episode offers a candid and comprehensive look into Joel McHale's life, from his professional milestones to personal passions. Dana Carvey and David Spade facilitate a rich dialogue that not only entertains but also provides deep insights into the complexities of maintaining friendships and navigating the ever-changing landscape of show business.
Notable Highlights:
- Friendship Dynamics: The enduring friendships between Joel, Dana, and David provide a heartfelt foundation for the episode.
- Career Insights: Joel's experiences on "Community" and "Talk Soup" shed light on the behind-the-scenes realities of popular TV shows.
- Personal Struggles: Discussions about dyslexia and handling live performances add depth to Joel's narrative.
- Shared Interests: The mutual love for truck restoration highlights the personal connections beyond their professional lives.
Overall, this episode is a must-listen for fans of Joel McHale, "Community," and those interested in the intricacies of show business friendships and personal growth.