Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade
Episode: SUPERFLY #65 - Rob Lowe Talks Hollywood
Release Date: April 25, 2025

Introduction

In Superfly #65, hosts Dana Carvey and David Spade delve into the pressing issues facing Hollywood with a special guest appearance by Rob Lowe. The trio navigates the complexities of the entertainment industry's current recession, the impact of tax incentives on local economies, and the broader implications for industry professionals who form the backbone of show business.

The Hollywood Recession and Tax Incentives

The conversation kicks off around the [03:40] mark with Dana and David addressing the economic downturn gripping Hollywood. They discuss how recent tax incentives, while intended to attract productions to states like Georgia or countries like Ireland, are inadvertently draining resources from California's local economy.

David Spade highlights, "If the whole country was me, we'd be in a deep depression" ([02:36]), emphasizing the personal impact of these economic shifts on industry insiders.

Rob Lowe adds depth to the discussion by explaining the logistical and financial challenges:

"There is one metric that... the cost of living in LA, you know, for all the people we're talking about, a basic home is about a million bucks in Los Angeles County." ([34:13])

This segment underscores the strain on both the creative and technical professionals who have long called Los Angeles home.

Impact on Industry Professionals

Dana and David shed light on the often-overlooked workers in Hollywood—the grips, electricians, drivers, and caterers—who are facing significant job losses. Dana Carvey poignantly states:

"Everyone's scraping by, and I think we're not here to really complain and bitch about everything. We're just trying to say, people should just know about this." ([37:10])

Rob Lowe elaborates on the ripple effects of production relocations:

"The ecosystem of it... the car wash that goes out of business, the smaller restaurants, the catering companies that go out. Yeah, it trickles down." ([36:16])

This highlights how decisions at the top tiers of production impact everyday businesses and livelihoods within the community.

Call to Action: Engaging with State Representatives

Recognizing the severity of the situation, the trio urges listeners to take action. Around [47:23], Rob Lowe emphasizes the importance of political engagement:

"If you're listening to this in California and you're so inclined, pick up the phone and call your congressman. Or more importantly, it would be your state, your state representative, because right now it's a state issue." ([48:33-47:23])

Dana Carvey reinforces this sentiment, encouraging constituents to reach out to their state representatives to advocate for policies that support local industry workers and prevent further economic decline.

Possible Solutions and Future Outlook

David Spade discusses potential legislative measures aimed at making California's tax incentives more competitive:

"There's a bill now that apparently is going to be really, really helpful... it would make California at least on par with New York." ([34:56])

This legislative effort aims to retain Hollywood productions within California, thereby preserving jobs and sustaining the local economy.

Rob Lowe adds optimism about the resilience of the industry professionals:

"Nobody changes until they're in enough pain... Maybe our industry, and California in particular, is in enough pain to finally make some changes to what is unsustainable." ([54:04])

Humor and Camaraderie

Throughout the episode, Dana, David, and Rob infuse their discussion with humor, lightening the gravity of the topics. From debating the best hairstyles in Hollywood to reminiscing about iconic films like Breakfast Club, their chemistry keeps the conversation engaging.

Dana Carvey humorously quips about his wardrobe choices:

"Teal Sweater... It's a way that makes me never put a hat on again." ([51:27])

These moments not only entertain but also showcase the enduring friendships and shared histories among the hosts and their guests.

Conclusion

Superfly #65 offers an insightful look into the hidden struggles within Hollywood, spotlighting the essential workers who keep the industry running. Dana Carvey, David Spade, and Rob Lowe combine their unique perspectives to shed light on economic challenges, advocate for policy changes, and remind listeners of the collective effort required to sustain the magic of showbiz.

As the episode wraps up, listeners are left with a blend of laughter and a deeper understanding of the complexities behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Notable Quotes

• Dana Carvey at [03:55]: "We're all a bunch of idiots. We literally don't know what started with."
• David Spade at [34:13]: "The cost of living in LA... a basic home is about a million bucks in Los Angeles County."
• Rob Lowe at [48:33]: "Pick up the phone and call your congressman... it's a state issue."
• Dana Carvey at [37:10]: "People should just know about this."
• Rob Lowe at [54:04]: "Maybe our industry, and California in particular, is in enough pain to finally make some changes."

This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the intricate web that supports Hollywood and the importance of community and policy in maintaining its vibrancy.