RE-RELEASE - Jay Mohr - Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Episode: RE-RELEASE – Jay Mohr
Release Date: April 1, 2026
Main Guests: Jay Mohr
Podcast Summary by Segment and Key Topics

Episode Overview

This episode features comic, actor, and former SNL cast member Jay Mohr in a lively, irreverent, and nostalgia-packed conversation with hosts Dana Carvey and David Spade. They reminisce about their years at Saturday Night Live, share behind-the-scenes stories, riff on the pressures and absurdities of showbiz, and dive into Jay's struggles and recovery journey. The mood vacillates between playful, self-deprecating, and sincere, with impressions, anecdotes, and candid reflections—particularly on SNL's environment, comedy writing, and Jay’s reinvention both as a performer and in his personal life.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The Comedy of SNL: Chaos, Competition, and Camaraderie

[03:30] SNL Bonds & Rivalries

The group discusses their overlapping years at SNL, and the landscape of cast politics and alliances, with Jay highlighting the split between different “classes” of cast members.
Jay and David reminisce about wrestling matches (real ones) between writers and cast—especially with Chris Farley—revealing the testosterone-fueled, prankish energy behind the scenes.

Memorable Quote:

“So I went my right arm around his head, and I just went bodied into him... if I let him go, he'd kill me.” – Jay Mohr on wrestling Farley [09:00–09:28]

Legendary Farley Stories & Writer's Room Mayhem

[06:15] Wrestling Farley

Jay recounts how he wound up wrestling Chris Farley in a graphics room brawl instigated by Fred Wolf.
After finally pinning Farley (with the help of David), Jay recalls a truly Farley-esque chase and elevator escape.

[12:00] SNL Antics: $100 Dare

Jay and David Tell once dared Farley to defecate out a window for $100. The tale escalates into classic SNL absurdity and ends with the cast running terrified from Farley brandishing a soiled hand.

Memorable Quote:

“After he wiped his ass with his hand, he went back to that mummy walk and he fucking chased us... with the shit on his mommy walk...” – Jay Mohr [13:39]

The SNL Game: Sketches, Rewrites, and Survival

[18:05] The Writing Gauntlet

Jay describes nervously handing his first sketch to SNL legend Jim Downey, only to have it coolly weighed in Downey’s palm and declared “a little long.”
The group delves into the mechanics of SNL writing: pitching, networking, and the importance of selling yourself to get sketches on air.

Memorable Quotes:

“You gotta go sell yourself, which is what we both didn’t do.” – David Spade [31:39]
“If I could do it over again, I would have just walked into your office doing impressions.” – Jay Mohr [23:45]

The Art of Impressions & Finding Your Place

[23:34] Finding a Voice

Dana and Jay compare their approaches: Dana, more character-driven; Jay, a mimic.
Jay shares his experience feeling like an outsider, with his talents underutilized because he didn’t actively pitch himself for sketches.

[30:06] Stand-Up and Identity

Jay and Dana talk about how doing impressions was sometimes looked down upon in stand-up scenes, while also being a huge asset on SNL—if people know you have the skill.

SNL’s Internal Politics & Oddball Hierarchy

[21:59] Navigating Alliances

Inside advice: to get a sketch on, partner up with established cast/writers so they have “proprietary” interest.
The perils of “resubmitting” sketches and the stigma of cut material.

Mental Health, Addiction, and Recovery

[46:11] Sobriety and Reinvention

Jay opens up about his struggles with alcoholism and addiction, describing his most recent recovery journey.
He shares the genesis of his relationship with Jeanie Buss, being supported through intervention and rehab.

Notable Quotes:

“I’ve always needed more than anybody else in every capacity... Desperation’s got a very distinct scent, and I stunk.” – Jay Mohr [50:06]

“One of the best things I learned in recovery was that I am the reason for all my suffering. Because if I’m the reason, I always have a solution.” – Jay Mohr [59:26]

[49:19] On Divorce and Relationships

Jay reflects on the emotional crater left by his first divorce, the difference in experience marrying later in life, and how sobriety changed his outlook.

[52:37] Meeting Jeanie Buss

The story of meeting his now-wife Jeanie Buss, how their relationship survived his darkest period, and how the right partnership feels after rebuilding oneself.

Notable Quotes & Moments by Timestamp

[05:36] “I just remember a waiter coming over going, get the fuck out of here. He’s in the middle of a punchline.” – Jay Mohr
[09:32] “And everyone’s staring at me like, what the fuck is this guy doing?” – Jay Mohr on pinning Farley in front of Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger
[26:54] “There ain’t no eye rolling in that D.” – Tracy Morgan, as recounted by Jay Mohr (on showing respect to Lorne Michaels)
[42:41] “You know what the three funniest words in comedy are? Full blown aids.” – Jim Downey, as retold by Jay Mohr (after months of anticipation)
[58:38] “Now I have, like, this monotheism for all of my problems... They can all be remedied by the program.” – Jay Mohr
[59:26] “If I’m the reason for my suffering, then I always have a solution.” – Jay Mohr

Memorable Impressions (and Meta Commentary)

Jay demonstrates impressions of Harvey Keitel, Owen Wilson, and Colin Quinn, often sliding seamlessly between real SNL stories and his voice-morphing comedic quirks.
Dana riffs on the insecurity of being known for voices, sharing stories of being teased in the San Francisco scene.
The trio riffs on SNL impressionists partnering off (Jay and Daryl Hammond’s two-man show, for example).

SNL Production, Sketch Politics & Office Hierarchies

[32:44] “It’s the Game of Thrones of SNL partnering with someone.” – Dana Carvey
Jay and David describe the sometimes cutthroat process of getting sketches read, rewritten, and (hopefully) aired, and the crucial importance of attaching yourself to experienced “players” who will advocate for your material.

Personal Journeys, Marriages, and Staying Power

[46:20] “Every man should have three marriages: one in his 20s/30s, one in his 40s, and the third in his 50s when he knows what he really wants.” – Jay quoting Lorne Michaels
Jay describes Jeanie Buss (now his wife) as “the first woman I’ve ever been with that just wasn’t depressed,” highlighting both a change in partner and in his own health and perspective.

Final Reflections & Lighthearted Moments

The episode closes with Jay sharing anecdotes about Jennifer Aniston (on the set of Picture Perfect), SNL alumni, and his audition for Jerry Maguire (which he won over other comedy notables).
Impressions, especially of Owen Wilson (“When I do Owen Wilson, it sounds like Jennifer Coolidge...”), bring laughs and close out the show’s trademark blend of comedy and camaraderie.

Structure: Key Segments & Timestamps

[00:00–02:09] Banter on "Jury Duty," team-building, and new comedy shows (non-essential, commercial, skip)
[03:30–15:00] SNL stories: arrival, wrestling Farley, legendary pranks
[18:05–34:05] Writing for SNL: struggles, sketch politics, partnership tips
[46:11–61:00+] Addiction, recovery, relationships, and moving into a new phase of life
[62:02–67:50] Celebrity encounters, movie anecdotes, and favorite stand-up/TV moments
[67:51+] Wrap-up, thank-yous, production credits

Overall Tone & Takeaway

Zany, nostalgic, and deeply honest.
This episode is a backstage pass to SNL’s wildest era, but it’s also a personal journey through comedic infighting, addiction, and, ultimately, resilience. Jay Mohr’s openness about addiction and reclamation (both professionally and romantically) offers an unusual depth to the usual comic banter. Dana and David keep it loose, sharp, and filled with affectionate ribbing, making the episode a must-listen (or read) for SNL aficionados, comedy nerds, and anyone grappling with reinvention.

For deeper dives into any story, use the provided timestamps to cue up your favorite segments—whether it’s Farley’s hijinks, insider SNL politics, or Jay’s reflections on recovery and new beginnings.

Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Episode: RE-RELEASE – Jay Mohr
Release Date: April 1, 2026
Main Guests: Jay Mohr
Podcast Summary by Segment and Key Topics

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The Comedy of SNL: Chaos, Competition, and Camaraderie

[03:30] SNL Bonds & Rivalries

The group discusses their overlapping years at SNL, and the landscape of cast politics and alliances, with Jay highlighting the split between different “classes” of cast members.
Jay and David reminisce about wrestling matches (real ones) between writers and cast—especially with Chris Farley—revealing the testosterone-fueled, prankish energy behind the scenes.

Memorable Quote:

“So I went my right arm around his head, and I just went bodied into him... if I let him go, he'd kill me.” – Jay Mohr on wrestling Farley [09:00–09:28]

Legendary Farley Stories & Writer's Room Mayhem

[06:15] Wrestling Farley

Jay recounts how he wound up wrestling Chris Farley in a graphics room brawl instigated by Fred Wolf.
After finally pinning Farley (with the help of David), Jay recalls a truly Farley-esque chase and elevator escape.

[12:00] SNL Antics: $100 Dare

Jay and David Tell once dared Farley to defecate out a window for $100. The tale escalates into classic SNL absurdity and ends with the cast running terrified from Farley brandishing a soiled hand.

Memorable Quote:

“After he wiped his ass with his hand, he went back to that mummy walk and he fucking chased us... with the shit on his mommy walk...” – Jay Mohr [13:39]

The SNL Game: Sketches, Rewrites, and Survival

[18:05] The Writing Gauntlet

Jay describes nervously handing his first sketch to SNL legend Jim Downey, only to have it coolly weighed in Downey’s palm and declared “a little long.”
The group delves into the mechanics of SNL writing: pitching, networking, and the importance of selling yourself to get sketches on air.

Memorable Quotes:

“You gotta go sell yourself, which is what we both didn’t do.” – David Spade [31:39]
“If I could do it over again, I would have just walked into your office doing impressions.” – Jay Mohr [23:45]

The Art of Impressions & Finding Your Place

[23:34] Finding a Voice

Dana and Jay compare their approaches: Dana, more character-driven; Jay, a mimic.
Jay shares his experience feeling like an outsider, with his talents underutilized because he didn’t actively pitch himself for sketches.

[30:06] Stand-Up and Identity

Jay and Dana talk about how doing impressions was sometimes looked down upon in stand-up scenes, while also being a huge asset on SNL—if people know you have the skill.

SNL’s Internal Politics & Oddball Hierarchy

[21:59] Navigating Alliances

Inside advice: to get a sketch on, partner up with established cast/writers so they have “proprietary” interest.
The perils of “resubmitting” sketches and the stigma of cut material.

Mental Health, Addiction, and Recovery

[46:11] Sobriety and Reinvention

Jay opens up about his struggles with alcoholism and addiction, describing his most recent recovery journey.
He shares the genesis of his relationship with Jeanie Buss, being supported through intervention and rehab.

Notable Quotes:

“I’ve always needed more than anybody else in every capacity... Desperation’s got a very distinct scent, and I stunk.” – Jay Mohr [50:06]

“One of the best things I learned in recovery was that I am the reason for all my suffering. Because if I’m the reason, I always have a solution.” – Jay Mohr [59:26]

[49:19] On Divorce and Relationships

Jay reflects on the emotional crater left by his first divorce, the difference in experience marrying later in life, and how sobriety changed his outlook.

[52:37] Meeting Jeanie Buss

The story of meeting his now-wife Jeanie Buss, how their relationship survived his darkest period, and how the right partnership feels after rebuilding oneself.

Notable Quotes & Moments by Timestamp

[05:36] “I just remember a waiter coming over going, get the fuck out of here. He’s in the middle of a punchline.” – Jay Mohr
[09:32] “And everyone’s staring at me like, what the fuck is this guy doing?” – Jay Mohr on pinning Farley in front of Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger
[26:54] “There ain’t no eye rolling in that D.” – Tracy Morgan, as recounted by Jay Mohr (on showing respect to Lorne Michaels)
[42:41] “You know what the three funniest words in comedy are? Full blown aids.” – Jim Downey, as retold by Jay Mohr (after months of anticipation)
[58:38] “Now I have, like, this monotheism for all of my problems... They can all be remedied by the program.” – Jay Mohr
[59:26] “If I’m the reason for my suffering, then I always have a solution.” – Jay Mohr

Memorable Impressions (and Meta Commentary)

Jay demonstrates impressions of Harvey Keitel, Owen Wilson, and Colin Quinn, often sliding seamlessly between real SNL stories and his voice-morphing comedic quirks.
Dana riffs on the insecurity of being known for voices, sharing stories of being teased in the San Francisco scene.
The trio riffs on SNL impressionists partnering off (Jay and Daryl Hammond’s two-man show, for example).

SNL Production, Sketch Politics & Office Hierarchies

[32:44] “It’s the Game of Thrones of SNL partnering with someone.” – Dana Carvey
Jay and David describe the sometimes cutthroat process of getting sketches read, rewritten, and (hopefully) aired, and the crucial importance of attaching yourself to experienced “players” who will advocate for your material.

Personal Journeys, Marriages, and Staying Power

[46:20] “Every man should have three marriages: one in his 20s/30s, one in his 40s, and the third in his 50s when he knows what he really wants.” – Jay quoting Lorne Michaels
Jay describes Jeanie Buss (now his wife) as “the first woman I’ve ever been with that just wasn’t depressed,” highlighting both a change in partner and in his own health and perspective.

Final Reflections & Lighthearted Moments

The episode closes with Jay sharing anecdotes about Jennifer Aniston (on the set of Picture Perfect), SNL alumni, and his audition for Jerry Maguire (which he won over other comedy notables).
Impressions, especially of Owen Wilson (“When I do Owen Wilson, it sounds like Jennifer Coolidge...”), bring laughs and close out the show’s trademark blend of comedy and camaraderie.

Structure: Key Segments & Timestamps

[00:00–02:09] Banter on "Jury Duty," team-building, and new comedy shows (non-essential, commercial, skip)
[03:30–15:00] SNL stories: arrival, wrestling Farley, legendary pranks
[18:05–34:05] Writing for SNL: struggles, sketch politics, partnership tips
[46:11–61:00+] Addiction, recovery, relationships, and moving into a new phase of life
[62:02–67:50] Celebrity encounters, movie anecdotes, and favorite stand-up/TV moments
[67:51+] Wrap-up, thank-yous, production credits