Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade: Episode Featuring Ke Huy Quan Release Date: February 12, 2025
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, longtime friends and comedic powerhouses Dana Carvey and David Spade sit down with acclaimed actor Ke Huy Quan. The conversation delves deep into Quan’s remarkable journey in Hollywood, from his early breakout roles in iconic films like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies, to his recent resurgence with award-winning performances and his latest project, Love Hurts.
1. Early Beginnings and Breakthrough Roles
The discussion kicks off with Dana introducing Ke Huy Quan and highlighting his early success in Hollywood. Quan reflects on his introduction to acting and how pivotal roles shaped his career.
Dana Carvey [01:08]: "Our guest today is Ke Huy Quan, who has an amazing story. He was just in school in LA when he landed a role in Indiana Jones: The Temple of Doom, followed by a stint in The Goonies. His journey took a dramatic turn from there."
Ke Huy Quan [01:36]: "It's a very complicated story, very much a hard luck story like many others in Hollywood, but with a happy ending."
Quan recounts how his family's immigration from Vietnam and his early life in Los Angeles played a crucial role in his entry into acting. Without prior experience, his casting in Indiana Jones changed his family's fortunes dramatically.
2. Financial Stability Through Residuals
An essential part of Quan’s story is the financial stability he gained from residuals from his early roles, which had a profound impact on his large family.
Quan [15:26]: "Indiana Jones was the biggest movie in 1984, and they made me a profit participant without me even asking. That first check allowed my family to afford a bigger house and lifted us out of financial strain."
David Spade [16:15]: "Only it changed my life, but it changed all of my family's life."
This financial boost came at a time when his parents had sacrificed everything to bring their nine children to the United States, leaving them heavily in debt. Quan emphasizes the generosity of the filmmakers, which provided not just monetary relief but also a sense of hope for his family’s future.
3. Overcoming Challenges and Persisting in Hollywood
Despite early success, Quan faced significant challenges in maintaining his career momentum. The conversation touches on the struggles of finding acting roles and staying relevant in the competitive industry.
Ke Huy Quan [29:16]: "I went through a range of emotions—frustration, confusion, sadness. It was hard, and I feared disappointing those who believed in me, especially my wife."
David Spade [32:05]: "It was hard not to feel bitter, but Quan remained humble and never blamed the system or others. Instead, he focused on self-improvement."
Quan credits his resilience to the unwavering support of his wife, who believed in his potential even when opportunities seemed scarce. This support system was pivotal in helping him navigate the long periods without significant roles.
4. Embracing Action: Training and Love Hurts
Quan’s passion for martial arts and action films is a central theme as he discusses his training in Taekwondo and his role in the upcoming action film Love Hurts.
Ke Huy Quan [24:47]: "I studied Taekwondo after Temple of Doom and earned a black belt. This training was instrumental in preparing me for my role in Love Hurts."
Quan [26:19]: "Fighting scenes are demanding, both physically and mentally. I trained rigorously to perform my own fight sequences, ensuring authenticity and safety."
The hosts engage with Quan about the challenges and rewards of performing his own fight scenes, highlighting his dedication to his craft and the physical toll it takes.
5. Personal Life and Relationship with His Wife
Quan opens up about his personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, who has been his steadfast supporter throughout his career.
Ke Huy Quan [35:02]: "We met while working on projects in Shanghai. From day one, we had endless conversations and quickly realized we couldn't live without each other."
Quan [35:24]: "My wife is my lucky charm. Her belief in me kept me going during the toughest times."
Dana and David commend Quan’s humility and the strength of his relationship, emphasizing how his personal life has been a cornerstone of his professional resilience.
6. Oscar Win and Industry Recognition
A pinnacle moment in Quan’s career came with his Oscar win, which marked a significant comeback after decades of perseverance.
Ke Huy Quan [53:21]: "Winning the Oscar was surreal. I had dreamed about this moment for forty years, and when it finally happened, it felt like a flood of emotions—the culmination of all my struggles and hopes."
Quan [54:42]: "Hearing my name announced felt like stepping into a dream. My wife and I woke up the next day still in disbelief."
Quan reflects on the emotional weight of the victory and its profound meaning not just for him but also for his family and the representation of Asian actors in Hollywood.
7. Upcoming Project: Love Hurts
The conversation concludes with excitement about Quan’s latest project, Love Hurts, which blends action and heartfelt storytelling.
Ke Huy Quan [41:09]: "During award season, after winning the Oscar, my agent approached me with the script for Love Hurts. Initially hesitant, I met with Steven Spielberg, who encouraged me to take the role, emphasizing its potential to redefine action heroes."
Dana Carvey [50:21]: "The trailer for Love Hurts is fantastic. It’s refreshing to see a new kind of action hero who relies on speed, coordination, and intelligence."
Quan shares insights into the making of the film, his approach to performing action scenes, and his excitement for audiences to experience the movie.
8. Reflections and Final Thoughts
Throughout the episode, Quan emphasizes the importance of perseverance, humility, and the support of loved ones in achieving success.
Ke Huy Quan [33:15]: "I always differentiate between envy and jealousy. Envy pushes me to keep improving, while jealousy drags you down. Staying humble and grateful has been key to my journey."
Quan [34:20]: "Having someone who believes in you, like my wife, is invaluable. It’s crucial to have a support system that uplifts you during challenging times."
Dana and David admire Quan’s outlook and resilience, offering listeners a powerful message about overcoming adversity and staying true to oneself.
Conclusion
This episode of Fly on the Wall is a compelling narrative of Ke Huy Quan’s journey in Hollywood, underscored by themes of resilience, gratitude, and the transformative power of support. Quan’s candid reflections provide valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of maintaining a career in the competitive world of entertainment. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and anyone facing long-term challenges, illustrating that with perseverance and the right support, success is attainable.
Notable Quotes:
- Ke Huy Quan [15:26]: "Indiana Jones was the biggest movie in 1984, and they made me a profit participant without me even asking."
- Quan [24:47]: "Fighting scenes are demanding, both physically and mentally."
- Ke Huy Quan [29:16]: "I felt like, man, if one day I don't, you know, if this doesn't happen, I'm gonna disappoint her."
- Quan [35:02]: "My wife is my lucky charm. Her belief in me kept me going during the toughest times."
- Ke Huy Quan [53:21]: "Winning the Oscar was surreal. I had dreamed about this moment for forty years."
Upcoming Movie:
- Title: Love Hurts
- Release Date: February 7, 2025
- Synopsis: A fresh take on the action genre, blending heartfelt storytelling with intense fight sequences, showcasing Quan’s skills and redefining the action hero archetype.
Listeners are encouraged to support Ke Huy Quan by watching Love Hurts in theaters and witnessing firsthand the culmination of his decades-long journey in the film industry.