Fresh Air Episode Summary: Richard Kind Is Glad He's Not That Famous
Release Date: April 14, 2025
Hosts: Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley
Guest: Richard Kind
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Fresh Air, Terry Gross sits down with the multifaceted actor Richard Kind, best known for his roles in "Only Murders in the Building," "Inside Out," and the Coen Brothers' acclaimed film "A Serious Man." The conversation delves into Kind's extensive career, his current role as the announcer and sidekick on the Netflix show "Everybody's Live with John Mulaney," his experiences working with legendary figures like Stephen Sondheim, and his nuanced perspectives on fame and personal fulfillment.
Richard Kind's Career Journey
Terry Gross opens the discussion by highlighting Kind's diverse body of work, from his early days on "Mad About You" and "The Carol Burnett Show" to his memorable performances in both live-action and animated formats. Kind reflects on his extensive career, mentioning:
"I've been in hundreds of movies and TV shows... I always crave ideas. And when an idea hits me, it grips me and it tortures me until I master it." (02:45)
He shares anecdotes from his time working on "Everybody's Live with John Mulaney," where his character often parodies figures like Gene Simmons, leading to both humorous and challenging moments.
Navigating Fame and Personal Fulfillment
A significant portion of the conversation centers on Kind's relationship with fame. Unlike major celebrities like George Clooney, Kind acknowledges:
"You know a lot of celebrities, and you've seen things that you're grateful you don't have to go through... I get to walk down the streets of New York and get to where I'm going." (08:20)
He contrasts his experiences with those of more globally recognized actors, expressing gratitude for a semblance of normalcy and the ability to lead a relatively private life despite widespread recognition. Gross adds her perspective, illustrating the pressures that come with greater fame:
"All the things that celebrity friends go through... I have a life where I can just walk down the street and interact with people without the constant scrutiny." (08:42)
Working with Stephen Sondheim
One of the standout segments of the interview explores Kind's collaboration with the legendary composer Stephen Sondheim in the musical "Bounce." Kind recounts:
"He always liked actors better than singers, but he loved when he heard his songs sung beautifully... He was so specific. If I put a 'the' instead of an 'an' in the lyric, he would correct me." (17:22)
He shares the intensity of working under Sondheim's direction, emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail and the challenges of performing complex musical numbers. Kind performs a poignant rendition of "Get Out of My Life," showcasing his ability to blend acting with singing, albeit humorously admitting his limitations:
"I'm not a singer... People ask me to sing. It's like I'm an improviser, but I'm not a great improviser." (24:12)
Reflections on Acting and Personal Growth
Kind opens up about his personal insecurities and the balancing act between confidence and self-doubt that many actors experience:
"Every day, I feel like a fraud. Every single day, I'm waiting for the world to say, 'I'm not that talented.'" (14:02)
Despite these feelings, he emphasizes the importance of continual improvement and authenticity in his craft. Gross adds her own struggles with self-confidence, creating a relatable dialogue about the human side of performing arts.
Early Career and Lessons Learned
The conversation shifts to Kind's early career experiences, including his time as a singing waiter in Manhattan and working in his father's jewelry store. He humorously recounts:
"I sold lighters and sterling silver keychains and pens... I was not a great salesman." (27:45)
These stories highlight the varied paths actors often take before finding their niche, underscoring the perseverance required in the entertainment industry.
Personal Beliefs and Heritage
Kind touches upon his Jewish heritage and personal beliefs, revealing a thoughtful perspective on faith and cultural identity:
"I believe that religion is just something that we go to to make us feel better or to give us some sort of foundation because the world is so full of chaos." (35:09)
He discusses the importance of maintaining cultural traditions and serving his heritage, even as his personal beliefs evolve.
Humorous Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Moments
Throughout the interview, Kind and Gross share light-hearted moments, including Terry Gross's attempt at singing a Sondheim song and her own jokes. For instance, she humorously tells:
"This mother is making her teenage son's bed... and she's gonna get... we're certainly not gonna spank him." (40:20)
These exchanges provide a glimpse into their camaraderie and the playful side of podcast interviews.
Conclusion
The Fresh Air episode concludes with gratitude for the insightful and entertaining conversation. Richard Kind expresses appreciation for the dialogue, while Terry Gross wraps up by teasing upcoming segments and highlighting future guests.
"Richard Kind, speaking with Terry Gross, is the announcer and sidekick on the series Everybody's Live with John Mulaney. It's live on Netflix Wednesday nights and then streams after we take a short break." (40:59)
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Richard Kind: "I have a huge ego with no confidence." (37:51)
- Terry Gross: "Every day, I wake up like that every day. But a flip side of that... I'm not gonna be bad. I'll be fine." (14:02)
- Richard Kind: "It's not what Hollywood wants." (24:54)
- Terry Gross: "Nobody tells a joke better than I do." (40:14)
Final Thoughts
This episode of Fresh Air offers a comprehensive look into Richard Kind's life and career, blending professional insights with personal reflections. Listeners gain an appreciation for the complexities of fame, the dedication required in the performing arts, and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst industry pressures. Through candid conversations and shared humor, Terry Gross and Richard Kind create an engaging narrative that resonates with both fans and newcomers alike.
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