Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade: Episode Summary – "Please Don't Destroy"

Release Date: November 27, 2024

In the "Please Don't Destroy" episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, presented by Audacy, longtime comedy veterans Dana Carvey and David Spade delve deep into the creative processes behind Saturday Night Live (SNL), their collaborative efforts with the "Please Don't Destroy" team, and share personal anecdotes from their illustrious careers. This episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the world of sketch comedy, the dynamics of creative partnerships, and the challenges of maintaining comedic excellence in a fast-paced entertainment environment.

1. Opening Banter and Comedic Tributes

The episode kicks off with Dana and David sharing laughs and admiration for fellow comedian Jim Gaffigan. Their playful exchange sets a lighthearted tone, highlighting their camaraderie and mutual respect within the comedy community.

• David Spade [00:00]: "You know who's hilarious is Jim Gaffigan."
• Dana Carvey [00:03]: "Jim Gaffigan. The guy is a machine. He's made 11 specials. I guess this will be number 12 for, and I'll say it, comedy legend Jim Gaffigan."

2. Introducing the "Please Don't Destroy" Team

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to introducing and discussing the "Please Don't Destroy" team. Dana and David provide insights into the team's role in producing high-quality video sketches for SNL, emphasizing their dedication and the rigorous schedules they maintain.

• David Spade [04:16]: "They are the guys that are three dudes on SNL that only do. I think they only do the videos."
• Dana Carvey [04:01]: "This podcast is going to blow your mind. It's going to reorientate your. It's going to destroy you."

3. The Creative Hustle: Writing and Producing SNL Sketches

Dana and David delve into the intricate process of creating SNL sketches, highlighting the intense writing sessions, the pressure of tight deadlines, and the collaborative nature of the team. They discuss how sketches often undergo multiple revisions and the importance of maintaining creativity under constraints.

• John [06:25]: "Feel free to ask questions."
• Dana Carvey [07:05]: "Do you want to peak in 93 like I did? I mean, come on. I've been dining out on three catchphrases for over a half century."

4. Balancing Quality and Quantity

The hosts address the challenge of consistently producing high-quality content while managing a heavy workload. They emphasize the importance of teamwork and the relentless pursuit of comedic excellence despite the demanding schedules.

• Ben [05:25]: "They're very talented."
• Dana Carvey [05:40]: "We get to shoot them pretty quick too, sometimes because they're like. Especially the office ones."

5. Personal Reflections: Editing Stand-Up Specials

A heartfelt segment where Dana and David share their experiences with editing their own stand-up specials. They candidly discuss the discomfort of watching themselves perform and the emotional rollercoaster of self-critique versus audience reception.

• David Spade [46:55]: "I keep putting it off, and then I watch it and I go, I think I'm bombing."
• Dana Carvey [48:40]: "I have a hard time watching myself. I just sick and self critical."

6. Touring Tales: Life on the Road

Dana and David reminisce about their touring experiences, shedding light on the dynamics of performing live, interacting with audiences, and the logistical challenges that come with traveling. They highlight the camaraderie among comedians and the unique stories that emerge from life on the road.

• John [41:16]: "We went on like a 30 city. Tour and I can't believe there's this many people in a Jimmy John's wherever you play."
• Dana Carvey [42:03]: "Our show is like, it's a sketch show, but we don't do like costumes or props really."

7. Navigating Show Business: Friendships and Rivalries

The conversation shifts to the intricacies of maintaining friendships within the competitive world of show business. Dana and David discuss past rivalries, mutual respect among peers, and the importance of support systems in sustaining long-term careers.

• Dana Carvey [54:31]: "When I came here to the airport, this isn't funny, but interesting. Dad comes up with a six and an eight year old boy girl."
• David Spade [55:11]: "There was a sketch, Dana, when you were there, I would just do what. But what was it the Hurley boy that was called?"

8. The Future of Comedy and Creative Endeavors

As the episode wraps up, Dana and David contemplate the future of comedy, the evolution of sketch shows, and their aspirations beyond SNL. They encourage listeners to pursue creativity and remain resilient in the face of challenges, drawing from their extensive experiences in the industry.

• Dana Carvey [62:58]: "I think you guys have going on is that you just make your own work, you know, and the movie is on Peacock for the rest of our lives."
• David Spade [65:02]: "So you guys also tour, right?"

9. Closing Remarks and Appreciations

In the final moments, Dana and David express their gratitude towards their guests and listeners, reinforcing the supportive and inclusive atmosphere of the podcast. They encourage fans to stay connected and look forward to future episodes featuring more behind-the-scenes insights and comedic explorations.

• Dana Carvey [67:30]: "Enjoyed it. Appreciate you all very much."
• David Spade [67:38]: "Thank you, guys."

Notable Highlights:

• Creative Pressure: Dana reflects on the high-stakes environment of writing for SNL, stating, "It's hard to nail it. High slugging, coming up with ideas that are consistently good."

• Team Dynamics: David praises the "Please Don't Destroy" team, mentioning, "These guys are funny. They're sweet. They also write for the show. Anyway, they're very talented."

• Personal Growth: Ben shares his journey in sketch comedy, saying, "I wanted to be a Disney kid more than anything. And they were like, absolutely not."

Conclusion

The "Please Don't Destroy" episode offers a comprehensive look into the collaborative efforts behind successful sketch comedy, the personal challenges faced by comedians, and the enduring friendships that sustain creative endeavors. Dana Carvey and David Spade, along with their guests, provide listeners with a blend of humor, honesty, and valuable insights, making it a must-listen for fans of comedy and those interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of iconic shows like SNL.